NEWS: Duncan McNaughton closes time as women’s rugby head coach

As the 2023 season closes, University of Ottawa Gee-Gees women's rugby head coach Duncan McNaughton will officially conclude his functions with the team, making way for the search for the next head coach of the women's rugby program.

Taking the helm of the program in the summer, McNaughton joined to usher the team through the 2023 season with a steady hand. Throughout the year, the team found resounding success, finishing with a 5-1 regular season record en route to being crowned RSEQ Champions, and an appearance at the U SPORTS Championship.

"We are extremely grateful for what Duncan brought to the women's rugby program and the Gee-Gees as a whole this season," said Sue Hylland, Senior Director of Recreation and Varsity Sport.

"His care and dedication to the student-athletes have been nothing short of amazing, we cannot thank him enough for his hard work and dedication all season long and wish him all the best going forward. We know we will continue to see him a lot in the future."

In taking the position, McNaughton stepped away from his assistant coaching responsibilities with the Canadian Senior Women's program to focus on his work with the Gee-Gees. 

In just a short time with the team, McNaughton made a notable impact on the program that is sure to carry into the team's next chapter.

"Being coached by Duncan this past season was an honour," said team captain Sarah White. "Duncan's love for rugby is eminent in his leadership style and his passion for growing the game is infectious. As our coach, he took the time to get to know each of us and possessed a genuine care for every athlete, this was felt both on and off the field. With his unwavering support and the confidence he instilled in us, we were able to thrive. This year was about way more than the wins and losses, the unity of the team was something extremely special, and Duncan was in the driver's seat for that."

As McNaughton departs, the search for the next head coach will officially commence with the position being posted publicly on Monday, Nov. 13.