Taber rugby team gears up for Ireland adventure, appeals for community support

Times Photo Submitted.

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Taber Rugby 2015 Association, a cornerstone of the local sports community, is once again rallying the town of Taber and the surrounding MD of Taber to support their latest endeavor: a trip to Ireland in April 2026.

The association, which began as a high school team at WR Myers High School in 2010, has grown into a powerhouse program with both junior varsity and varsity squads. Over the years, the team has reached provincials eight times, clinching gold four times and silver once. Beyond their local success, the team has traveled to Wales, Victoria, and New Zealand, building connections with the global rugby community and fostering a love for the sport.

Now, the team is setting their sights on Ireland, with the women ready to represent Taber on the international stage. However, the journey comes with a hefty price tag. The team has already raised more than $170,000 through the team taking on tasks in the region, but they are still $12,000 short of their goal. True to their philosophy, the team isn’t asking for handouts—they’re asking for work.

“We’ve always believed in earning our way,” said Jose May Erickson, President of the Taber Rugby 2015 Association. “The girls have done everything from cleaning parking lots and houses to catering and working on farms. They’ve shown incredible dedication and resilience, and they’re willing to do it all again to make this trip happen.”

The team’s fundraising efforts are a reflection of their work ethic and determination. Erickson recalls the challenges of their trip to New Zealand, where the team raised $170,000 in just eight months. The journey was fraught with obstacles, including a major delay at the airport, due to West Jet cancelling their flights, and other logistical nightmares, but the girls never wavered and Erickson never backed down in making sure the team got a plane. Although they missed two days of their New Zealand trip due to flight changes, they made it in the end.

“I watched 19 girls keep it together through every challenge,” Erickson said. “No complaints, no drama—just determination and unity. It was incredible to see their strength and resilience. That trip wasn’t just about rugby; it was about life lessons, teamwork, and building a family.”

The impact of these trips extends far beyond the rugby field. For many of the players, it’s their first opportunity to travel and experience the world. The trips teach them the value of hard work, the importance of teamwork, and the joy of achieving something together. Erickson emphasizes that rugby is more than a sport—it’s a way to build character, foster community, and empower young women.

“Rugby is such an amazing sport because there’s a position for everyone,” Erickson said. “It’s about finding your place, working hard, and supporting each other. These trips are life-changing for the girls. They come back stronger, more confident, and more connected.”

As the April 2026 departure date approaches, the team is making a heartfelt appeal to the community. They are looking for work opportunities to close the fundraising gap and ensure every player can participate in this transformative experience. Whatever the job, the girls are ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work.

“We’re not just asking for help; we’re asking for the chance to earn it,” Erickson said. “These girls have shown time and again that they’re willing to put in the effort. We just need the community to give them the opportunity.”

To support the Taber Rugby team, donate directly, or contact them with work offers, visit their website at taberrugbyclub.com or connect with them on Facebook. Let’s come together as a community to help these incredible young women achieve their dreams and represent Taber on the world stage.