Bringing Touring Back: Markham Irish Head to the Cayman Islands
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
For generations, touring has been one of the most meaningful traditions in rugby. It is where teams grow closer, players step outside their comfort zones, and clubs build connections that last well beyond a single season.
In 2026, the Markham Irish Rugby Club is proud to bring that tradition back. Our first tour in this renewed chapter will see our Junior Boys program, ages U16 to U18, travel to the Cayman Islands over Thanksgiving Weekend 2026, where our athletes, coaches, and club representatives will represent the Markham Irish on an international stage. This tour is about more than matches. It is about restoring an important part of our club identity and creating opportunities that shape players both on and off the field.
Learn more about the tour here.
For athletes still interested in joining, email brent.scagnetti@gmail.com.
Why Touring Matters
Touring has always been a cornerstone of rugby culture. It challenges players in new environments, strengthens team bonds, and reinforces what it means to represent something bigger than yourself.
With this tour, we are re-introducing our club’s tradition of providing international rugby experiences to our athletes. The benefits are lasting and far-reaching:
International Competition – Players will compete in exhibition matches against local Cayman clubs, testing themselves in a new and competitive environment.
Exposure to Different Styles of Play – Experiencing rugby outside of Ontario broadens tactical understanding and adaptability.
Joint Training Sessions – Athletes will train alongside Cayman players, exchanging ideas, skills, and perspectives.
Personal Growth – Travel builds independence, confidence, and leadership skills that extend well beyond rugby.
Stronger Team Cohesion – Shared experiences off the field strengthen trust and connection on it.
Club Culture & Community Pride – Touring athletes act as ambassadors for the Markham Irish, our community, and our country.
Global Relationships – Establishing connections with clubs abroad opens doors for future exchanges and partnerships.
Inspiration for the Next Generation – Showing our younger players what rugby can offer helps them dream bigger within our program.
Most importantly, touring creates lifelong memories. It is where friendships deepen, traditions grow, and stories are made that players carry with them long after their playing days are over.
What to Expect – Thanksgiving Weekend 2026
Our Cayman Islands Tour will include:
Exhibition matches against local Cayman clubs
Joint training sessions to foster collaboration and learning
Team-building activities
Sightseeing and cultural experiences
Opportunities to represent the Markham Irish Rugby Club internationally
Every athlete and coach traveling will do so as a representative of our club’s values — teamwork, respect, resilience, and pride.
Looking Ahead
Bringing touring back is a deliberate step forward for the Markham Irish Rugby Club. It reflects our commitment to developing well-rounded athletes, strengthening our culture, and providing experiences that extend beyond the local league schedule.
This tour marks the first step in rebuilding a strong and lasting touring tradition across the Markham Irish Rugby Club in the years ahead.
Comments