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www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Friday, June 28, 2013 | 24 Spice won two OFSAA medals with Red Devils, switched positions at Western University continued from p.23 field. Although she didn't get a lot of playing time in that first season on the Crusaders under-17 team, she showed up at Oakville Trafalgar High School in Grade 9 with a strong understanding of the game. "In Grade 9, she showed flashes of this cerebral ability to read the field," said Red Devils coach Dan Valley, who will also serve as an assistant coach for the Canadian squad. "Then in Grade 10, she continued to evolve incredibly rapidly." Spice said she learned from the example set by older players, how hard work led to success on the field and that success fed her enjoyment of the game. "I just love rugby," she said. "Some people think that I take it a little too seriously, but I've always liked the physical challenge. There's a mental element, a physical element." Spice made the Ontario team three years in a row and helped OT earn its first two provincial high school medals -- a bronze in 2011 (Newman and Spice scored the Red Devils' tries in the 12-8 victory) and gold in 2012. After being recruited by the Western Mustangs, Spice didn't skip a beat at the university level. Despite learning a new position, switching from outside centre and fullback to flyhalf, she earned the Ontario University Athletics rookie-of-the-year award. There were more adjustments beyond the new position. "In the OUA, you have all these girls who have been on the national and provincial team," she said. "They're bigger, faster and the game is so much more intense." Spice took advantage of game videos to study her own form, seeing what other options were available on plays and checking to make sure she made the proper decision. Valley said one of the best things about being a part of the Canadian coaching staff is having a front row seat to see Spice's game continue to evolve. And evolve it will. Spice says she can still improve her game-reading ability and admits that, while her kicking is good, it might need to be better in order to compete at the national level. Valley said Spice will continue to thrive because of her ability to "recognize opportunities when they present themselves and take advantage of them." Ironic, considering that her biggest opportunity -- the chance to play the sport -- was one she never saw coming. -- Players on the national under-20 women's rugby squad must cover their own expenses. Spice is raising funds for her trip. Anyone interested in supporting her financially can do so by visiting bit.ly/10ZAlLs GOLF at LIONHEAD G&CC Friday June 28th through Monday, July 1st Halton Minor Ball Hockey League CONGRATULATIONS! Halton Minor Ball Hockey League has completed its 2013 Season They would like to congratulate the winners in each division. Tyke (Ages 7-8): Tyke Champs - Toronto Marlies Tyke Finalists - Tripemco Insurance Thrashers Novice (Ages 9-10): Novice "A" Champs - Oakville Hornets Girls Hockey Novice "A" Finalists - Mantis Attack Novice "B" Champs - Dymanic Healing Massage Seahawks Novice "B" Finalists - Fitness Firm Atom (Ages 11-12): Atom "A" Champs - Team Black Atom "A" Finalists - Kontek Ecology Silver Hawks Atom "B" Champs - Oakville Beaver Atom "B" Finalists - Kelly Green Peewee (Ages 13-14): Peewee Champs - Peewee Kontek Ecology Inc Goons Peewee Finalists - Pioneer Energy LP Bantam/JR (Ages 15-19): Bantam/Jr "A" Champs - Corpa Investigations Inc Bantam/Jr "A" Finalists - Blue Bombers Bantam/Jr "B" Champs - Lavalife Heartbreakers Bantam/Jr "B" Finalists - Olympic Trophies $99.00* per person per round *plus applicable taxes Includes greenfee with power cart and BBQ Buffet Congratulations to all of the players and coaches on an excellent season. Thank you to our many sponsors for your ongoing support. We look forward to the 2014 season. This ad is courtesy of & ­ Proud Supporters ­