After a heartbreaking semi-finals loss last year, the Grizzlies pounded their way into this year’s Division 2 City finals. From there, the Grizz punched their first ticket to provincials after winning a hard fought game against the Calgary Saracens.
This season, the Grizzlies were the league’s juggernaut rolling over the competition virtually unchallenged, suffering only two losses for a record of 11-2. By the end of the season, the Grizzlies’ snowballing success hit near avalanche proportions, devastating the competition. Over the course of the Grizzlies’ last six games leading up to their 40-28 weekend win, they outscored their opponents 490-42.
The team’s success is a testament to its overall philosophy that is pinned by hard work, heart and class. Their winning strategy was a combination of skill, determination and playing good clean rugby.
Those qualities transcend the field, which is why the Grizzlies – through the Bow Valley Rugby Club – have established themselves as one of the many great faces of Cochrane. Whether its volunteering for community events, coaching young players or being great representatives of Cochrane when travelling to compete, the team and the club are known for their community building mentality.
The Grizzlies and the rest of the club have been able to give other teams and organizations both locally and afar a taste of Cochrane class and hospitality.
That dedication to community deservedly earned the club, thanks in part to the efforts of the Grizzlies, the town’s Ambassador of the Year award back in May.
“We try to spread the Cochrane brand and get involved as much as possible,” said Bow Valley vice-president and Grizzlies player Anthony Battistone when the award was presented
This weekend, the Grizzlies will face their toughest challenge to date when they head to provincials to face the Edmonton Leprechaun Tigers.
The game will test the Grizzlies’ grit and mettle as they fight to make team history, make the hometown crowd proud, and show off the character and class they and Cochrane are known for.
Head coach Tyler Hawes nailed it when he said, “The best part of coaching is for these moments. This doesn’t come around every day.”
Indeed this is the kind of moment every team plays for and now the Grizz have a chance to do it again this weekend.
Our hats go off to the success the Grizzlies have shown this season and we, and much of the community, will be cheering you on as you fight for the provincial title.
If this weekend’s game is played with the same heart that has defined the Grizzlies this season, chances are good another title is in the cards.
