Updated: August 2026
Returning players, recruits, and all others will be assessed on their abilities, potential for development, and commitment to the rugby program. The selection process will be based on several factors that include but are not limited to the following:
Rugby Ability & Performance
- Technical effectiveness in catch/pass, tackling, defence, contact, breakdown, set piece and positional skills.
- Tactical understanding, game awareness and decision-making.
- Ability to perform skills effectively under pressure and at game speed.
- Understanding and application of the Laws of Rugby.
- Demonstrates the technical competency required to participate safely.
Physical Readiness
- Fitness level appropriate for positional demands.
- Meets strength and conditioning expectations.
- Physically prepared to safely meet the demands of training and competition.
Competitive Mindset & Coachability
- Consistently works hard and competes regardless of the situation.
- Responds positively to coaching and applies feedback.
- Takes responsibility for development and demonstrates a desire to improve.
- Responds appropriately to adversity and can move forward from mistakes.
- Arrives mentally prepared to train and compete.
Teamwork & Character
- Accepts and fulfills roles that contribute to team success.
- Communicates respectfully and works effectively with teammates and staff.
- Demonstrates accountability, maturity, and reliability.
- Contributes positively to an inclusive, respectful and team-focused environment.
- Demonstrates behaviour consistent with the expectations of the team, program, Faculty and University.
- Demonstrate effective communication skills with all team members and staff. Willing to work through and resolve conflicts that might interfere with team success.
Commitment
- Demonstrates consistent commitment to the program throughout the year.
- Prioritizes and attends required training, competition, strength and conditioning, meetings and other program requirements.
- Is punctual, prepared and reliable.
- Communicates consistently and responds to coaching staff within a reasonable timeframe.
- Takes responsibility for academic requirements and appropriately manages competing commitments.
Versatility & Development Potential
- Ability to contribute in multiple roles or positions where applicable.
- Demonstrates potential for continued technical, tactical, physical and personal development.
- Shows consistent improvement and willingness to challenge themselves.
Roster & Program Needs
Selection will also consider:
- Positional requirements and suitability.
- Positional depth and player combinations.
- Immediate competitive needs.
- Long-term roster and program needs.
- Overall balance and composition of the team.
Selection Decisions
Selection is based on an overall assessment of the criteria above and includes both objective and subjective evaluation. Criteria may be weighted differently based on position, roster composition, competitive requirements and program needs. Meeting individual criteria does not guarantee selection. The goal of selection is to identify the group of athletes who collectively create the strongest and most effective roster for Varsity Blues Women’s Rugby.
The coaching staff is responsible for athlete evaluation and selection, with final selection decisions resting with the Head Coach.
*Final roster will be selected by September 10th, 2026.
Bobbi-Jo Cronk
b.cronk@utoronto.ca
