Local athlete makes RBC Training Ground final

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“Molly’s performance at the RBC Training Ground event in Calgary revealed very good sprint speed and endurance, the kind of athleticism we look for to play rugby at the next level,” said Jennifer Joyce, Strength and Conditioning Coach, Rugby Canada. “We’re excited about her potential.”

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The 100 finalists will now compete in Ottawa on Oct. 22 with the chance to be one of 30 to earn funding and a spot on Team Canada with one of nine partner National Sport Organizations (NSOs), and an accelerated path to the Olympics.

“I am most excited to see the other athletes and there physical capabilities,” said Aellen. “This is such a unique opportunity to accelerate my experience in rugby, but also It will also be great to meet athletes from all kinds of different sports across the country and see how I measure up.”

Athletes will be joined at the National Final by RBC Training Ground alumni and Olympic medalists:

Avalon Wasteneys (Rowing, Gold, Tokyo 2020); Jerome Blake (Athletics, Bronze Tokyo 2020); Kelsey Mitchell (Cycling, Gold, Tokyo 2020); Marion Thénault (Freestyle Skiing – Aerials, Bronze, Beijing 2022); and Pierce LePage (Athletics). Olympians Chloe Dufour Lapointe (Skiing); Justin Kripps (Bobsleigh); Justine Dufour Lapointe (Skiing); Marie-Philip Poulin (Hockey); Melissa Humana-Parades (Beach Volleyball); Miranda Ayim (Basketball); Penny Oleksiak (Swimming); and Valerie Maltais (Speed skating)

The 30 athletes selected for funding will be announced following a nationally televised special documentary later this fall.

According to the Canadian Olympic Committee, funding is administered by the participating National Sport Organization bringing the athlete into its system, and is used for things like coaching, transportation, travel, equipment, and nutrition.

NSO partners include Bobsleigh Skeleton Canada; Canoe Kayak Canada; Cycling Canada Cyclisme; Freestyle Canada, Luge Canada; Rowing Canada Aviron, Rugby Canada; Speed Skating Canada; and Volleyball Canada.