Prince Albert’s Franc off to Colombia for Rugby 7’s

“I talked to him quite a bit actually, he said it was an experience of a lifetime and he enjoyed it a lot,” said Franc. “He says I’m going to love every bit of going down, not just for the rugby, but for the people we’re going to interact with and the hospitality that comes with going to Medellin.”

The Dog River Howlers, a rugby club based in Regina, are making their third trip to Colombia. They donate equipment, like rugby balls, boots and other gear, to some of the poorer areas of Medellin. Rugby in Colombia started in 1993 and 75 per cent of their players are from families that make less than $500 per month.

“[The Howlers] do a lot of charity work,” said Franc. “When we go down to Colombia, we’re giving back to the community, interacting with children and families and communities that don’t have a lot and try to introduce them to a sport that allows them to play and get involved.”

Franc has limited experience with the 7’s game, having only played in a couple of tournaments and is more accustomed to the full 15-aside game, but his offensive style should lend him success at the 7’s game.

Franc has represented Team Sask five times between the U16 and U18 levels and is entering his fifth and final season with the Saskatchewan Rivers Dragons. Franc credits his recent success to the Dragons program, by taking him in and letting him play a year early as a Grade 8 and letting him develop.

“I’ve really enjoyed it,” said Franc. “If I didn’t play when I was a little Grade 8, I wouldn’t be going to Colombia to play rugby.”

jdandrea@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @jeff_dandrea

by Jeff D'Andrea

Prince Albert’s Franc off to Colombia for Rugby 7’s

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