What an event! 

On October 4th, 2025, Waterloo County and the Brantford Harlequins competed for the last time this season in hopes of securing the McCormick Cup.

The pitch was abuzz with friends, families, and rugby fans there to support both teams. The Harlequins were excellent event hosts, offering pitch-side hospitality of burgers for all the hungry supporters there, ready to watch what was expected to be an incredible match. 

This wasn’t the first big match the Harlequins hosted this year. In July, they hosted the OWL Premiership Cup final match between themselves and Guelph RFC. While they weren’t able to secure the win in the women’s league – they seemed determined to have a different outcome this time around.

The fans piled into the stands, set up their lawn chairs, and settled in. The men set up on the pitch – and we were ready to go. 

This was an exceptional match. Waterloo County started strong, setting up strong scrums and excelling in lineouts. The Harlequins weren’t prepared for this play style, giving Waterloo an early lead in the points. By the end of the first half – the score was 24-21 for Waterloo. It was a lead, but when it’s that close, it’s still anyone’s game. 

During the half-time break, we honoured the accomplishments of the late Bill Webb. Rugby Canada presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Bill’s father Bill Webb Sr., and brother Robert Webb. The Brantford Harlequins President Dave McLean presented an honourary Harlequins club jersey, as Bill played for the club. Finally, Wilfrid Laurier University Men’s Rugby Team and Ontario Blues Sr. Men’s Head Coach, Phil Murphy, also presented a framed Golden Hawks jersey.

The second half saw bolder, fiercer Harlequins – determined not to lose on their own turf. They took command of the pitch, providing an incredible defence against Waterloo. But despite the effort, Waterloo scored 5 points – widening the gap. This match had fans on the edge of their seats, eyes glued to the pitch. The Harlequins played harder, moved faster, pushed themselves to the limit. The squeeze was worth the juice. The Harlequins scored an incredible 19 points, propelling them to the win with a final score of 40-34.

The sound of the final whistle was quickly overshadowed by the rush of  fans charging the pitch – ready to celebrate with their team. 

While this win was special for all the players, it held extra importance for Brantford Harlequins player Ethan Hager. Ethan was awarded Player of the Match for his incredible playing on the pitch, but more importantly, this marks the second McCormick Cup win for the Hager family. Ethan’s father, John Hager – won the McCormick Cup in 2003.

If there’s one takeaway from the final match on Saturday, it’s that rugby is a sport that builds connection. Regardless of the final outcome, both teams showed incredible sportsmanship and a true love for the game, and the fans created an optimistic and supportive atmosphere. It was incredible seeing families out to support their fathers, brothers, and spouses, with the next generation of rugby players in tow.

Thank you to the Harlequins for hosting this incredible event. Congratulations to our finalists, Waterloo County. And of course, congratulations to our 2025 McCormick Cup winners – The Brantford Harlequins.

Miss the match? You can watch the livestream below!