The Carleton Ravens rugby team will have one of its own on the field at the 2014 Fédération internationale du sport universitaire (FISU) World University Rugby Sevens Championship in Sao Jose de Campos, Brazil from Aug. 8-10, as Natasha Smith has been named to the Canadian team’s roster.
This appearance marks Smith’s second straight season attending a university world championship, as she also suited up for her country at the 2013 Summer Universiade in Kazan, Russia, where Canada captured the bronze medal.
“I feel ecstatic about being chosen to represent Carleton and Canada for the second time,” Smith said in an email.
After missing the 2013 season due to a broken collarbone injury, her coach Denis Blondin said Smith’s dedication paid off to still be recognized.
“Natasha’s selection to the Canadian team is result of both her hard work and commitment to improving and a tribute to her taking advantage of the tremendous resources available to her at Carleton’s Athletics Department,” Blondin said in an email.
After a bronze performance in 2013, Smith said her team has a specific goal in mind for the 2014 World University Championships.
“This year our team is hoping to push for a gold medal,” she said.
