The Salmon Arm women’s rugby team made history by winning the 2025 Saratoga Cup, held earlier this month at Little Mountain fields. The local Yeti Rugby Club went undefeated throughout the tournament to claim their first-ever women’s title.
The Saratoga Cup is a premier regional rugby event, bringing together top teams from the Interior and Kootenay regions. The two-day competition, held on August 9 and 10, saw ten teams from seven clubs compete for the championship.
In only their second year of having a women’s team, Salmon Arm’s Yeti Rugby Club delivered an outstanding performance. They defeated the Rocky Mountain Rogues 28-10 in the final match to secure the championship. This win marks a major milestone for the club and highlights the growth of women’s rugby in the region.
The men’s division also drew strong competition. The Vernon Jackals emerged victorious, beating the Terrace Northmen RFC in Sunday’s final. Both the men’s and women’s tournaments showcased high-level rugby and a growing enthusiasm for the sport across the Interior.
This year’s Saratoga Cup also welcomed new teams in the women’s division. Trail RFC entered a women’s team for the first time and finished third overall, demonstrating the expanding reach of women’s rugby in the province. The introduction of new teams is seen as a positive sign for the sport’s development in smaller communities.
Players and fans praised the event for its competitive spirit and community atmosphere. The tournament not only celebrated rugby skills but also encouraged local participation and support for women’s sports. Organizers noted that the number of teams and spectators continues to grow each year, reflecting increased interest and investment in regional rugby.
Salmon Arm’s Yeti Rugby Club has steadily built its women’s program since forming two years ago. Coaches highlighted the team’s teamwork, discipline, and determination as key factors in their victory. Team captain emphasized the importance of every player contributing both on and off the field, stating that the win is a shared achievement for the entire club.
The Saratoga Cup remains a cornerstone event in B.C.’s rugby calendar. Its success this year reinforces the significance of regional tournaments in developing local talent and promoting inclusivity in sports. With the growing involvement of women’s teams, organizers hope future tournaments will feature even more clubs competing at a high level.
For Salmon Arm, this championship is more than a trophy. It is a reflection of dedication, community support, and the rising prominence of women’s rugby in the Interior. Fans celebrated the team’s victory, and local rugby programs are expected to benefit from the increased visibility and inspiration brought by this historic win.
As the Yeti Rugby Club looks ahead, they plan to continue strengthening their women’s program and encouraging more young athletes to participate. Their success at the 2025 Saratoga Cup sets a strong example for other emerging teams in the province.
