FORRESTER & MALETTE JOIN WOMEN'S RUGBY 7S COACHING STAFF

The Lancers are thrilled to announce the newest additions to the Women's Rugby 7s coaching staff, Jess Forrester and Rachelle Malette.

Under the leadership of newly appointed Head Coach, Jo Anne Robinson, Forrester and Malette bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team for the upcoming 2024-2025 season. This season marks the first time in Lancer history that any outdoor sports program at Loyalist College will be completely female-led.

Forrester spent four years playing for Team Ontario before moving on to university where she was named team captain in her final year. In addition to her playing career, Forrester has taken on prominent leadership roles within rugby, including her involvement with the Belleville Bulldogs Club executive team. In 2021 she began coaching at CrossFit Belleville, which further proves her coaching prowess and dedication to athlete development.

Forrester will use her leadership skills and team-first mentality to build a positive environment for the team. "I hope to be a positive role model for the athletes and help facilitate an environment where they are excited to learn and grow as athletes and players," She says. "I believe it takes every person on the field to win a game and hope to create an environment that empowers the girls to perform, learn new skills, and be their best."

Malette's 20 years of playing experience includes an impressive post-secondary resume at both Trent University and with the Lancers, where she was an OCAA League All-Star, team captain and Bronze medalist.  Malette also spent time abroad playing in the UK for two years, gaining invaluable international exposure, skill, and experience.

After starting her coaching journey in 2014 with youth rugby, Malette has made significant contributions to teams within the Bulldogs organization through her competitive, athlete-first style of coaching. "I believe that a coach's job is to facilitate an environment that correlates with the collective goal of the team. A coach that can establish that connection early on with their team, then consistently work to balance high-performance standards with fun, respect, and learning is a coach that will keep their athletes motivated to excel."

Together, Forrester and Malette bring a dynamic blend of additional experience, leadership, and passion for rugby to the coaching staff. Their expertise will undoubtedly elevate the performance and development of our Lancers women's rugby 7s team.