Rugby newcomer to test mettle in England

Richmond Hill Liberal

Michael Morra loves to play football.

But recently, the 16-year-old Richmond Hill resident has taken a liking to another sport that involves just as much, if not more physical contact — rugby.

Morra’s decision to try the sport two years ago has paid big dividends.

Just recently, the Grade 11 Bill Crothers Secondary School student gained a berth to play on the provincial junior team.

He’ll take part in an upcoming tour to London, England from Aug. 3 to 11.

Playing the tight head prop position for the provincial team, Morra cannot wait to test his playing skills against players from another country, where the sport is taken a little more seriously.

“I’m extremely proud and excited to be given the chance to represent Ontario and Richmond Hill on the rugby pitch,” he said.

In making the team, Morra said auditions began June 16 with camps held across the province.

Attending the tryouts for just the first time, Morra acknowledged he did not know what to expect.

But once they began, he felt his performance was on par with rivals.

When the final roster was announced, it was mission accomplished.

Citing he was looking for a new challenge and was encouraged to try rugby through Michael de Vries, a teacher at Bill Crothers Secondary School, Morra was quick to credit him along with fellow Bill Crothers rugby coach Andrew McCutcheon in developing his rugby skills to the level where he could compete at the provincial level.

It also did not hurt that Morra played rep football the past five years and captained the Colts to back-to-back York Region Athletic Association junior titles.

While making the provincial team is a highlight thus far in his rugby career, Morra hopes he can continue to move up the ladder by some day playing at the national level while in university.

Rugby newcomer to test mettle in England