Our Team
Scott Manning
Scott Manning is currently in his fifth season as Head Coach of the University of Victoria men’s team. A former Canada U17 and U19 representative, Scott also teaches modules in UVic’s Coaching Master’s program. With more than two decades in the game, he is committed to developing the next generation through a philosophy grounded in joy, care and growth, helping players reach their potential both on and off the field.
Co-Founder & Coach
Aaron Takel
Originally from Wales, Aaron progressed through Welsh age grades, won a national university title, and played professional rugby before moving to Canada 20 years ago. As Rugby Canada performance analyst he’s been involved in 50+ senior men’s test matches. He teaches at Collingwood School, leading teams to three straight BC Provincial Championships (2023–2025). Aaron is defence coach for Capilano RFC and the BC Bears Senior Men, holds a master’s in Sports Performance Coaching, and is a World Rugby Level 2 Coach Educator.
Co-Founder & Coach
Sophie de Goede is the Canadian national team captain and 2025 World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year. A standout for Saracens, she led Canada to a historic silver medal at the 2025 World Cup. During the tournament, Sophie became the program's all-time leading scorer, surpassing 295 career points. Her unmatched work rate and leadership have solidified her status as a premier figure and inspiration in the global rugby community.
Guest Coach
Sophie de Goede
Player Summer Camp
August 10th - 14th, 2026
Summer 2026 Rugby Day Camp - SMUS, Victoria - Drop In
CA$500.00
5 full days of rugby. This day camp is for male and female players aged 13-17 of all skill abilities.
Includes all on-field and off-field rugby sessions from 9:00am to 5:30pm. Lunch will be provided to all day camp players.
Summer 2026 Rugby Overnight Camp - SMUS, Victoria - Domestic Canadian Players
CA$1,2000.00
5 full days of rugby. This overnight camp for male and female players aged 13-17 of all skill abilities.
Includes all on-field and off-field rugby sessions, boarding, all meals, house parent supervision and off-site evening excursions.
Summer 2026 Rugby Overnight Camp - SMUS, Victoria - International Players
CA$1,700.00
5 full days of rugby. This overnight camp for male and female players aged 13-17 of all skill abilities.
Includes all on-field and off-field rugby sessions, boarding, all meals, house parent supervision and off-site evening excursions.
Where to Find Us
St. Michaels University School (SMUS) in Victoria is a world-class independent school situated on a stunning 17-acre Richmond Road campus that seamlessly blends heritage architecture with state-of-the-art modern facilities. Its athletic infrastructure is particularly impressive, featuring the Monkman Athletic Complex with three full-size basketball courts and a fitness centre, four squash courts, and four meticulously maintained grass pitches for rugby and soccer. Beyond sports, the campus boasts the Sun Centre—a modern student commons and dining hall with a vaulted ceiling
St Michaels University School
3400 Richmond Rd, Victoria, BC V8P 4P5
Elevate Your Game
Player-Centered: We advocate for coaching methods that prioritize the player's decision-making and enjoyment ("Game Sense" or "Constraints-Led" approaches).
Experiential Learning: Our motto is "learning by doing." We run camps where coaches practice their craft on real players and get immediate peer feedback.
Innovation: We frequently collaborate with disruptors in the coaching world, such as Russell Earnshaw (of the Magic Academy), known for unconventional and highly effective coaching techniques.
