It was an experience that a local rugby player won't soon forget as he got to represent Team Canada.

Darren Chaplin, who plays for the Calgary Knights recently returned from a big international event in Alaska.

"I was invited to play in a trial match in Anchorage, Alaska for the Rugby Canada Classics Program. We were able to head up there to play against the US Classic Eagles."

Although Canada lost their game to the US 43-19, Chaplin says the experience is one he's still buzzing about.

Darren Chaplin got to play with his former Highlanders teammate Tim Van Vliet (Photo Courtesy: Darren Chaplin/Rugby Canada Classics)

"That was a few weeks ago and I'm still thinking about it. It was an amazing time. Kind of a lifetime experience and definitely, as the Rugby goes, still sore in a few spots."

The experience was also made special as Chaplin was reunited with his former Airdrie Highlander counterpart, Tim Van Vliet.

"Before we even knew each other we had played against each other for quite a long time at high levels. When he had to part ways and return up north and I returned to Calgary to continue playing, it was nice of us to both get the invite for the Canadian Classics and be able to travel to Alaska."

Chaplin and Van Vliet helped form the Highlanders Rugby Club back in 2013 and although the club doesn't field competitive teams right now, they're still offering youth development programs and have taught at several schools in Rocky View.

With the development program growing, Chaplin hopes that what he did for Team Canada will only add to the popularity of the sport in the city.

"I really hope that it just kind of demonstrates to people, what kind of caliber that a small town like Airdrie has. We have National team leve players and coaches that are here that are bending over backwards to help the kids learn about Rugby and to develop it."

 

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