Black Sheep Rugby Club Returns from Thrilling Aussie Tour

UPDATE: The Port Alberni Black Sheep Rugby Club is back and ready for action after a thrilling 19-day tour of Australia that reignited their passion for rugby. The team, which competes in Div. 1, experienced the excitement of the British & Irish Lions tour this July, showcasing their skills and witnessing high-stakes matches.

During their tour, the Black Sheep played against five clubs and won four out of five matches, including a standout victory of 44-32 against Mosman Rugby Club in Sydney. The players also had the chance to watch the Lions versus Australia match in Melbourne, described by head coach Jas Purewal as “one of the most intense games you’ll ever see.” The Lions pulled off a dramatic come-from-behind win, and the atmosphere was electrifying, with discussions buzzing at local bars about the controversial final play.

“It was like the Stanley Cup Final,” Purewal stated, reflecting on the overwhelming love for rugby displayed by Australian fans. He noted that stadiums were packed with tens of thousands of spectators, underscoring the sport’s deep cultural roots in the country.

Off the field, the Black Sheep were busy exploring iconic sites like the Sydney Opera House and enjoying activities on the Gold Coast. “They didn’t get a lot of sleep,” Purewal joked. “We definitely kept them busy.”

The club had meticulously planned this excursion over several years, navigating logistics for fundraising, travel, and ticket procurement. This tour was particularly special as it marked a historic series that dates back to 1888, giving players a chance to experience the global nature of rugby firsthand.

As the Black Sheep now gears up for the 2025-26 season, starting with a homestand on September 20, 2025, they face new challenges. Key players like Cody McClary and Dane Dentoom are recovering from injuries, which puts pressure on the team to fill their roster with younger talent. “We’re trying to get some high-school-aged guys and guys in their 20s,” Purewal explained, emphasizing the need to boost their numbers.

For those interested in joining, the Black Sheep Rugby Club holds practices every Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the top of Argyle Street. With the excitement from their tour fresh in their minds, the players are poised to bring that passion back to the pitch.

The Black Sheep’s incredible Australian adventure not only strengthened their skills on the field but also forged lasting memories and connections to the global rugby community. As they embark on this new season, the club looks forward to new challenges and opportunities in the world of rugby.