The Government of Canada Supports NACRA 2013 World Cup Sevens Qualifier Tournament

OTTAWA, Aug. 25, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), the Honourable Gordon O'Connor, Chief Government Whip and Minister of State, today announced the Government of Canada's contribution to Rugby Canada to host the North American Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) 2013 World Cup Sevens Qualifier Tournament. The event is being held August 25 and 26, 2012, in Ottawa, Ontario.

"The Government of Canada, through Sport Canada's Hosting Program, is pleased to provide support to Rugby Canada for the NACRA 2013 World Cup Sevens Qualifier Tournament," said Minister Gosal. "Rugby is a sport of rich tradition, and our Government supports the promotion of this exciting sport here in Canada. I wish the best of luck to our national team as they take on some of the best in their sport."

"Hosting international sport events such as this one offers an opportunity for our athletes to compete against some of the best in the Americas and Caribbean, while bringing a welcome boost to the local economy," said Minister O'Connor. "Both our men's and women's teams have enjoyed success, and I wish them the best on the road to the World Cup."

"Rugby Canada is extremely proud to have the opportunity to host a World Cup qualifying event in Canada. We are excited to welcome eleven countries representing the NACRA Region to our nation's capital," said Graham Brown, CEO of Rugby Canada.  "Knowing we have the support of the Minister of State and Sport Canada is tremendous for our sport in Canada and on the world stage."

Currently, Rugby Canada offers national team programs for men and women at various age levels including Under 19, Under 21 and Under 23.  Providing the opportunity for Canada's players to compete on the international stage has allowed Rugby Canada to become a world leader in the development of rugby.

The Government of Canada is the single largest contributor to sport in Canada and supports participation and excellence from playground to podium. Funding of $50,000 has been provided for this event through Sport Canada's Hosting Program. In 2012-2013, Rugby Canada will receive $1.47M from Sport Canada's Sport Support Program, and almost $800K is provided through the Athlete Assistance Program to support 86 men and women rugby players with living and training expenses, in 2011-2012.

(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

For further information:

For more information (media only), please contact:

Dustin van Vugt
Chief of Staff
Office of the Honourable Bal Gosal, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1122
[e-mail]

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
[e-mail]