Canada’s national rugby team takes on Belgium in Edmonton

Canada's national rugby team took on Belgium in Edmonton on July 12, 2025 (CTV News Edmonton/Galen McDougall)

Edmonton was home to Canada’s national rugby team as they took on Belgium Saturday.

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The match is the first of two “summer test matches” at Clarke Stadium. The second game will see Canada against Spain.

Nathan Bombrys, the chief executive of Rugby Canada said the game in Edmonton is the first of the international rugby season and the first under new head coach Steven Meehan.

“There’s a thriving rugby community here in the city and around this area,” Bombrys told CTV News Edmonton. “Hopefull these guys can get a wine and play some good rugby and inspire the next generation of rugby players.”

The team has three players from the city of champions – forward Dewald Kotze, back Brock Gallagher and hooker Austin Creighton.

Nate Yue, head coach for the St. Albert under 15 and under 16 rugby teams said the game means a lot to his players.

“To see the best in the country get to showcase their skill and also come and do sessions with them, has really meant a lot,” said Yue. “It was very exciting to see all these different aspects from the highest level get passed down.”

Canada will play against Spain at 7 p.m. on July 18 at Clarke Stadium. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.