In the heart of Prince George, British Columbia, a rugby club with a unique name and an even more extraordinary mission has been making waves since its establishment in 2019. Meet the 1697s Rugby Club, a community-driven organization founded by Adam and Katie Gordon and run by an amazing group of dedicated volunteers and coaches who make the program what it is. What started as a social group for first responders in Northern BC quickly evolved into a powerhouse of inclusivity and youth rugby development. 

The club received a significant milestone in the spring of 2023 when it gained approval from BC Rugby to become an official member club. The name ‘1697s’ holds a special significance, representing the intersection of highways 16 and 97 in Prince George. This intersection inspired the club’s mission of connecting players to opportunities and fostering community and camaraderie among its members. 

From its inception, 1697s Rugby Club has demonstrated a commitment to youth rugby. Actively engaging with a local high school in Prince George, the club decided to make youth rugby a primary focus. Their programming aimed to provide year-round engagement in a fun and inclusive environment, creating a platform for young athletes to grow and thrive in the sport. 

In their first official year as a BC Rugby Union club, the 1697s made a notable impact. Representing the North at the Provincial Regional Championships of 7s Rugby in Langford, the 1697s’ U15 girls’ team showcased the club’s dedication to competitive excellence. One of the highlights was participating in the Kamloops 7s Rugby tournament, the largest youth rugby tournament in Western Canada. 

They also extended their reach into the community by engaging with 200 elementary school kids from three schools in Prince George, introducing them to the joys of rugby, and hosting two rookie rugby camps, attracting nearly 50 athletes across Northern BC and Alberta. 

The 2023 achievements continued, with the men’s first responder team securing a bronze medal at the World Police and Fire Games 2023 in Winnipeg. 

Looking ahead to 2024, 1697s Rugby Club is gearing up for its third rookie rugby camp for youth ages 5-12 at the Northern Sport Centre. This presents a fantastic opportunity

for young athletes to discover the sport and be part of a supportive community. Registration is open, and interested individuals can sign up here. 

Those wanting to stay updated on 1697s Rugby Club’s journey can follow the club on Facebook and Instagram. The club’s official website, www.1697srugby.com, is also a valuable resource. 

In the spirit of unity, growth, and a shared passion for rugby, the 1697s Rugby Club continues to inspire and connect communities in Northern BC and beyond.

Are you interested in having your club featured? Reach out to kferagen@engagesportnorth.com today!