Rocky Mountain Rogues Cap Undefeated Kootenay Seasons with Women’s Historic Saratoga Cup Win and Men’s 3rd Place Finish
The Rocky Mountain Rogues are celebrating a remarkable 2026 season, with both the women’s and men’s senior teams finishing undefeated in the BC Rugby Union Summer League (Kootenay Division) before heading into the Saratoga Cup championships this past weekend (August 8-9) in Fernie, BC.
The women went on to claim the first Saratoga Cup championship in Rogues women’s history, while the men secured a third-place finish with a win over last year’s champions, the Vernon Jackals.
Together, the results mark a strong season for the Kimberley-Cranbrook club—and a significant milestone for rugby in the East Kootenays.
Rogues Women Make History
After finishing second at the Saratoga Cup for three consecutive years, the Rogues women finally broke through this weekend to claim their first championship.
The team defeated the defending champions Salmon Arm in the final, completing a season defined by steady growth, strong player numbers and years of work to establish a competitive women’s program in the region.
The Rogues women’s team was founded in 2023. Before that, women in the region trained alongside the Rogues men and played with the Elk Valley Bulls. Since the women’s program was established, player numbers have steadily grown as new athletes have joined and returning players have continued to develop their skills. In addition to league games, the women have regularly attended social tournaments like Jasper 7s, Sunfest, and Stampede 7s to gain extra game experience.
“This season’s result is off the back of the women’s hard work these past four years,” says coach Ike Edwards. “Growing the team numbers every year, finding and bringing in new talent, and continually training to learn and hone skills. It’s an accomplishment that the women should be extremely proud of. I am certainly proud to be a coach of the Rogues Women.”
For Women’s Captain Cassidy Born, the championship was especially meaningful after last year’s result.
“I couldn’t be prouder of this team and everything we put into this year,” says Born. “The hard work, the commitment, and the way we showed up for each other made this season so special. Getting the win in the Saratoga final against the team that beat us last year made it even more meaningful.”
Born broke her pinky finger during training leading up to Saratoga. Haylie Farquhar, who joined the Rogues in 2023, did a tremendous job stepping in to captain the tournament. She says the team’s determination was evident throughout the championship weekend.
“I have never been more proud of the resiliency to come back from 2-2 and when things were on the line each woman not only did their part but dominated in their part,” says Farquhar. “We played for the club, players past and present, and each other.”
“This win is history making as being the first Rogues women’s victory is something I’ll hold dear to me forever. I’m beyond blessed to have done it with this team.”
Rogues Vice President Trixie Pacis started the team alongside Born and Farquhar. She explains the impact that women’s rugby has on a community.
“Rugby teaches physical strength, mental resilience, and teamwork. There’s a position for every body type, and we welcome players of all experience levels. We hit hard and we want to win, but we also care about creating a welcoming and supportive space.”
“Winning the Saratoga Cup was not just a season of hard work, but years of developing a women’s program alongside our supportive men’s team. This cup is so much more than a tournament win; it means women in this community are falling in love with rugby. I feel incredibly proud to have been a part of that.”
Rogues Men Finish Third After Dramatic Semifinal
The Rogues men also entered the Saratoga Cup after an undefeated Kootenay Rugby League season, carrying strong player numbers and a mix of youth and experience into the provincial championship.
The men fell just short of the final after a dramatic semifinal against the Terrace Northmen. After trailing by 21 points at halftime, the Rogues mounted a remarkable comeback to force the match into extra time before ultimately falling to the eventual Saratoga Cup champions.
The team bounced back in the consolation match, defeating the Vernon Jackals, last year’s Saratoga Cup champions, to secure third place.
“The Rocky Mountain Rogues senior men’s rugby season is officially wrapped, although we fell short of our yearly goal of lifting the Saratoga Cup,” says Rogues President and Men’s Captain Jared “Duce” MacDonald. “It will be looked back on as another year of massive success.”
“After an undefeated regular season, the men’s team fell short to the eventual Saratoga Cup champions in extra time. Showing true heart and desire to come back from a 21-point half-time deficit to take the Terrace Northmen into extra time. The win wasn’t meant to be, but the Rogues would secure a gritty 3rd place finish by defeating last year’s champs, the Vernon Jackals, in the consolation game.”
MacDonald says the team is already looking ahead.
“With strong player numbers all season and a great mix of youth and experience, we look into the 2027 season with great excitement. Thanks to every player, coach, volunteer and local sponsor. Up the Rogues!”
A Club Built on Community
The success of both teams comes against the backdrop of a long history of grassroots rugby in the Kootenays.
Rugby in the Kimberley and Cranbrook area dates back to the 1970s, with the roots of the Rogues tracing to a Mount Baker high school program established in 1974 and the formation of a club team in 1976. Kimberley and Cranbrook rugby communities later joined forces, eventually becoming the Rocky Mountain Rogues.
For decades, Kootenay rugby clubs have navigated the challenges of building teams in smaller and geographically dispersed communities, including player numbers, travel and the economic ebb and flow of mountain towns. At the same time, clubs across Kimberley, Cranbrook, the Elk Valley, Nelson and Trail have continued to build relationships and grow the sport.
The Rogues women’s undefeated season and historic championship, alongside the men’s undefeated league season and third-place Saratoga finish, are the latest chapters in that story.
For a club whose strength has always been rooted in its players, volunteers, coaches and community, 2026 has been a season worth celebrating.
Youth Rugby and Recruitment for 2027 Season
The Rogues run youth rugby programs in the Fall and Spring. Registration is now open for Mini and Junior rugby, which will run for six on Saturdays in September and October in Kimberley. Coached by Rogues players, these programs teach the basics while emphasizing teamwork and fun. The first session will be free so kids can come out and see what youth rugby is all about.
Info and registration at https://rockymountainrogues.com/news/
New men’s and women’s players are welcome. If you’re interested in joining for the 2027 season, reach out now via Instagram (@rockymountainrogues) or email (rockymountainroguesrfc@gmail.com).
rockymountainrogues.com 