After a successful first two weeks of their BC Rugby Premier League campaign, the UBC Thunderbirds return to Coastal Cup action against the Trinity Western Spartans on Saturday, October 12th. The match, like all UBC home matches, will be broadcast exclusively on The Rugby Network.

The T-Birds are 4-1 overall on the season, split between two different competitions. Their record in Costal Cup play is 2-1, with wins over TWU and UVic and a close loss to Pacific Pride. In BC Premier League play, The 'Birds are now 2-0, following consecutive victories over Capilano RFC and Burnaby Lake Rugby Club.



UBC has the chance to extend their winning streak to three this weekend, with a rematch against the Spartans at home. The Thunderbirds defeated Trinity Western 61-18 in Langley back at the beginning of September, which was the season-opener for both teams.

"What I've liked most is the team's grit and determination, stepping up despite injuries and illness," said T-Birds head coach Didier Banse. "Our mix of experienced leaders and younger athletes has maintained intensity and executed our game plan well."

A win over the Spartans would improve the T-Birds' record to 5-1, which would equal their best start to a season since 2021. The Gerald McGavin UBC Rugby Centre has been a fortress so far this season, with the Thunderbirds holding a 3-0 record and a +33 point differential at home.



The match against TWU also serves as a qualifier for the Canadian University Men's Rugby Championship. The CUMRC is now just a month away, as the T-Birds aim to win their sixth national title in seven years. Despite the program's pedigree, Banse isn't looking too far ahead just yet.

"First, we need to qualify, which will be decided in this weekend's match against TWU," he added. "Losing our captain Takoda McMullin for the season to a knee injury is a big blow, however we're still in a good place but we need to sharpen up to defend the title."

Saturday's clash begins at 2:30 p.m. (PT) at the Gerald McGavin UBC Rugby Centre. The match is available to watch live and on demand for free on The Rugby Network.