About us
A Home Club for All Athletes
Established in 1974, the Nor'Westers Athletic Association (NWAA) has been dedicated to providing rugby programs and other recreational activities to the Edmonton Region for individuals ranging from ages 3 to 65. Located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, our rugby programs include men’s, women’s, and youth divisions spanning from under 5’s to under 18’s. Winter activities include hockey, wrestling, and fitness activities. Throughout the year, we host a variety of recreation, family, and social events to bring our members together.
The Nor’Westers boasts a rich history of producing talented athletes, dedicated coaches, and skilled administrators who have represented not just Edmonton and Alberta, but Canada on the international stage. Over the years, our members have participated in events spanning across Alberta, Canada, and even globally, proudly showcasing their skills and promoting our city and province wherever they go.
As we commemorate our 50th anniversary this year, we reflect on nearly five decades of excellence, sportsmanship, camaraderie, and competitive spirit in Alberta. We take great pride in our heritage and look forward to many more years of contributing to the rugby legacy of our region.
Club Name and Crest
The club takes its name from the culturally diverse group of entrepreneurs who formed the North West Company in 1779 which were known as the Nor'Westers. Men such as Sir Alexander Mackenzie and their guides, trapped and traded for furs while exploring and charting the Canadian Northwest establishing forts and the first settlements in Alberta over two hundred years ago. Many of these individuals formed the fur brigades (convoys of canoes and boats) that annually transported furs and goods by canoe across the country.
Our crest honours the fur-hatted trader/explorers and their indigenous guides that travelled on a canoe through forests and mountains on a Northwest River. The crest is symbolic that to succeed you must work together.
The Nor'Westers acknowledge that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages, and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
Mission
To welcome and to provide a home Club for all athletes. To promote involvement in the game, provide rugby playing opportunities to individuals of all abilities and ages, and to develop player athletes to their highest potential. To provide a positive environment and premier facilities to foster the growth of the sport of rugby.
Vision
To provide the best possible rugby instruction giving each player, whether youth or adult, the opportunity to reach their individual potential. We strive to ensure that each player will be able to have fun, make new friends, experience the unique culture of rugby, and learn about participating positively in a demanding team sport.
core values
Respect | Teamwork | Discipline Excellence | Fun
goals
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To build, from the ground up, an inclusive rugby club that sponsors all levels of play including youth, senior, and old boys/old girls programs;
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To encourage the development of a rugby family ethos, providing the warmest welcome to new players and providing mentoring support for all;
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To highly value volunteerism, fostering positive growth of the game and providing support of every club member both on and off the field;
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To dedicate ourselves to the creation of a professional rugby organization with the highest quality coaching staff, and passionate and engaged members who will support its growth;
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To develop championship rugby teams that have a solid club identity and access for our players to Rugby Canada's Developmental Pathway;