Rainbow Cup rugby celebration and tourney set for Sept. 8 at Tubs and Gee Gage field

The Beach community is invited to join the Rainbow Griffins Rugby Football Club (RFC) for the inaugural Rainbow Cup on Sunday, Sept. 8.

The non-contact rugby tournament will take place at the Tubs and Gee Gage Rugby Field, located at 1091 Eastern Ave.,  north of Lake Shore Boulevard East and west of Emdaabiimok Ave. (formerly Lower Coxwell Avenue).Those taking part are asked to arrive for 10 a.m. with the rugby matches slated to start at 11 a.m.

Organizers said the tournament isn’t just about the playing the game of rugby — it’s also a celebration of diversity, inclusion, and community, honouring the legacy of Bill Webb, a towering figure in Toronto and Ontario rugby.

Webb, who died in August of 2023 at the age of 59, had served as a Director with the Rugby Canada board from 2016 to 2022; was co-founder and president of the Toronto Arrows professional rugby team; and was an advisor on the Toronto Inner-City Rugby Foundation’s Captain’s Council. His sons Stephen and James played Under-20 rugby for Canada in international matches. Webb grew up in Brantford and lived in North York. He played his high school and club rugby in Brantford, then went on to play the sport at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo.

Events at the Rainbow Cup on Sept. 8 will feature a series of fun, competitive rugby games, a drag flag match, and awards.

“This event is about more than rugby; it’s about creating a space where everyone feels they belong,” said Marianick Pichon, vice president of the Rainbow Griffins RFC.

“We’re thrilled to launch our Queer and Transgender inclusivity program at this event,” added Nate Ives, president of the club.

Whether you’re looking to play, support, or just experience the energy of rugby, the organizers aid the Rainbow Cup welcomes everyone.

To register or for more information, please go to cup.rainbowgriffinsrfc.ca and/or follow @rainbowgriffinsrfc on social media.