Rugby Manitoba U17 Boys 15s Provincial Team Coaching Staff

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Rugby Manitoba U17 Boys 15s Provincial Team Coaching Staff

January 09, 2025

Rugby Manitoba is thrilled to announce the coaching team for the U17 Boys 15s Provincial Team, who will lead the program as we prepare for the 2025 season.


Head Coach: Gerald Lopez
Gerald Lopez brings over three decades of experience in rugby as a player, youth coordinator, manager, and coach. Currently, he serves as the Head Coach for the Dauphin Clippers High School Boys Rugby 15s team and is an Assistant Coach for the U20 Boys Rugby Sevens Provincial Team, preparing for the Canada Summer Games. He also plays an instrumental role in developing youth rugby in Manitoba as the coordinator for the Parkland Youth Rugby Association.

As a World Rugby Level 2 certified coach, Gerald is dedicated to fostering a positive rugby culture where players can learn and grow through their experiences on and off the field. “Along with Sam and our support staff, I am honored to lead the U17 Team Manitoba Provincial Boys Squad in 2025. I look forward to meeting our future provincial players from across the province. Go Toba!"

Assistant Coach: Sam Newhook
Sam Newhook brings a wealth of rugby knowledge with 16 years of experience as a player, coach, and referee in Newfoundland and Ontario. Most notably, Sam has played and captained the Newfoundland Rock and represented the Atlantic Privateers. His coaching portfolio includes assistant coaching for the Newfoundland Rock U17 team.

Now based in Manitoba, Sam is excited to contribute to the development of rugby in the province. “I look forward to working with the talented players here in Manitoba as part of the U17 team. It’s a great opportunity to continue building the sport and inspiring young athletes.”


For questions or to get in touch with the coaching staff, please contact Gerald Lopez at geraldglopez@gmail.com