Three Raymond Comets rugby stars recruited to play for U of L

By Garrett Simmons
Westwind Weekly News

Without a doubt, it was an amazing season for the Raymond Comets rugby program.
Raymond took home the 7s and 15s provincial championships and now, three seniors from this year’s team have signed on the dotted line to play at the post-secondary level.
Julia Wert, Elizabeth LePage and Jorja Salmon will all suit up for the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns next season.
The 5’7” Salmon was the first to commit to the U of L, as she signed with the Pronghorns back in February.
Wert, a 5’5” scrum half, and LePage, a 5’4” hooker, made it official on June 13.
It brings an end to a very successful high school career for the three players, who were part of Raymond’s Tier 1 championship winning team. The Comets capped off an incredible 2022 season with a 43-7 win back on June 4 in Edmonton, as Raymond took down Strathcona for yet another provincial title.
Now, the three Comets will be part of a U of L team that went 3-3 in the Canada West standings this past season. The Horns eventually fell 36-7 in the playoffs to Victoria, which put an end to the team’s season.
“We are excited to have Jorja, Elizabeth and Julia join us,” said Graeme Moffat, head coach of the U of L women’s rugby team.
The coach added each player will bring a special skillset to the table when they hit the pitch for the Pronghorns.
“I have had the privilege of watching the girls play several times this season and observe the positive impact they have had on the team,” he said. “Jorja carried well, getting the team on the front foot proving a real handful for the defence. Elizabeth is a work horse, doing a lot of the unseen work which allows others to flourish. Julia, pulled the strings well, organizing the troops, excelling with her support play.”
Moffat went on the say hopes are high for the three Comets.
“They have all led from the front. I Would love to add a few more Comets recruits too. Dan (Bikman) and his staff have done a wonderful job.”

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