Olivia Norby -Senior Copyeditor 

The Bishop’s Gaiters women’s rugby team pulled off a big win on Sunday, Sept. 14, defeating the Université de Sherbrooke Vert et Or 24–20 in a tough matchup. 

Photo courtesy of Maude Charlebois

The rivalry game started with Bishop’s striking first. Winger, Elly Jean (#14), intercepted a pass just inside Sherbrooke’s half and outran defenders for a 60-meter try, putting the Gaiters on the board early. A conversion from Stella Tutino (#15) capped off an impressive opening frame. 

In the forwards, prop, Maude Duval (#3), anchored the scrum and provided a strong offensive presence, while flanker, Tessa Brosseau (#7), stood out defensively, relentlessly chasing down every kickoff and shutting down Sherbrooke’s advances. 

That energy carried over as co-captain Sadie Bull (#10) added a second-half try of her own, showing both speed and composure under pressure. Center, Allison Skeggs (#13), also powered her way through the defense to score, giving Bishop’s strong momentum. 

Sherbrooke responded with intensity in the second half, pushing Bishop’s onto the back foot. The Vert et Or capitalized on Gaiters’ penalties and broke through the defensive line, steadily closing the gap. With just minutes remaining, Sherbrooke pulled ahead, and it looked as though the momentum had fully shifted. 

But the Gaiters refused to fold. In the final minute of play, Bull struck again, breaking through the defense for a clutch try that put 

Bishop’s back in front. Camryn Mayhew (#21) then slotted the conversion, stretching the lead to four and sealing the game. 

When the final whistle blew, Bishop’s had held off Sherbrooke’s late push, earning a 24–20 victory. It was a hard-fought win that highlighted both their offensive power and defensive resilience. Scrum-half, Sofia Galletti (#9), reflected afterward: “The energy of the girls on and off the field that day was something special, the team needed that win.” 

The standout of the day was co-captain Bull, whose leadership and two tries, including the decisive score in the dying moments, earned her Gaiter of the Week honours. She shared the spotlight with men’s rugby player Kai Williams, who was recognized on the men’s side. 

The win was more than just another result in the standings. It was proof of the team’s ability to handle pressure, adjust when challenged, and come together when it mattered most. Beating Sherbrooke on their home field was a big moment for the Gaiters, and it sets the tone for the rest of their season.