Rugby Canada is pleased to have named Gareth Rees the new National Men’s Program Manager. Gareth will be joining the staff in the Langford office, providing leadership and management across all programming as well as ensuring primary administrative duties are supported for the Senior Men’s National teams.

Prior to coming to Rugby Canada, Gareth was the president of Waterfall Events Ltd, a facility that handles/organizes over 70 events a year including corporate, art showings, weddings, product launches and feature filming.

Gareth also has a long and notable resume when it comes to his experience in the rugby community. Along with his accomplishments on the field as a player, working in a leadership role through various Rugby Canada programs for over 25 years, Gareth also held the position of CEO of Rugby Canada from 2002-2004. From competing as an age grade player, to become a national team player, professional, player’s board representative, U21 National Coach, Professional coach and player agent; Gareth has an extremely well rounded background, and the ability to draw skills/experience from any of the roles he has held in the past.

“We’re excited to welcome Gareth aboard,” said Kieran Crowley, Canadian National Senior Men’s Coach. “He has a wealth of experience that he brings to the role through his previous administration and playing days and I look forward to working with him at the Centre of Excellence and in his role with the National team.”

Gareth has experienced national team programs and knows what the demands and challenges are for a player, coach and administrator. This experience is going to allow Gareth to relate and have a better grasp on what the needs there are for these programs, and what steps need to be taken to take them to the next level. His knowledge of the international arena will really allow him to jump right into this role and his relationships within the rugby community will give him access to resources to ensure the programs run as smoothly as possible.

“I think it is fantastic to have someone of Gareth's standing in the international rugby community back involved with Rugby Canada,” said Mike Chu, General Manager of Rugby Operations and Performance. “He is highly respected and will add a lot of value to what we are trying to achieve.”

Gareth has a true passion to see, not only the game but, the Canadian national team athletes reach their full potential and taste success on the world stage.

In his new position, Gareth will be responsible for reporting and communicating the on-going operations of the team to various departments such as coaches, staff and executives. His primary challenge of this position is to provide all necessities to national programs, ensuring all their needs are fulfilled.

Rugby Canada is excited in having someone with Gareth's resume and knowledge taking over this role and are looking forward to seeing where he can take our National Men’s programs.