OSHAWA, Ont. - Durham College men's rugby head coach John Watkins will be inducted into the Rugby Ontario Hall of Fame as a builder on November 22 in Mississauga.
Since joining Durham College ahead of the 2017 exhibition season, Watkins has played a pivotal role in establishing the Lords as one of the premier collegiate rugby programs in Ontario. In the team's official entry to OCAA competition in 2018-19, Durham captured OCAA gold, marking an immediate statement under Watkins' leadership.
Over his tenure, Watkins has guided the Lords to three OCAA gold medals and two bronze medals, consistently keeping the program among the conference's elite. His impact extends beyond the team's collective achievements, when five players were named OCAA all-stars in Durham's first full season back in league play, setting a high standard for future squads.
"John's impact on the sport of rugby in Ontario goes far beyond the wins and championships. He's been a leader, a builder, and a mentor whose passion for the game has elevated everyone around him," said Scott Dennis, Director of Athletics & Recreation. "We're incredibly proud to see him recognized by Rugby Ontario and grateful for the legacy he continues to build here at Durham College."
Watkins' influence on the game stretches far beyond the campus grounds. A cornerstone of the local rugby community, he has served as president of the Oshawa Vikings since 2000 and president of Toronto Rugby, while also contributing to the Rugby Ontario Board of Directors from 2012 to 2014. In recognition of his long-standing commitment, he received the Rugby Ontario Volunteer Award in 2009.
Before joining the Lords, Watkins' coaching resume included extensive success with the Oshawa Vikings Rugby Club, leading the U-14 boys to consecutive provincial finals (2012–14) and guiding the U-16 squad to a provincial championship in 2015. His leadership helped the Vikings earn Rugby Ontario's Junior Boys Club Program of the Year award in 2014.
He has also made a lasting mark in high school rugby, first with Henry Street High School and later at Maxwell Heights Secondary School.
Established in 1999, the Rugby Ontario Hall of Fame recognizes players, coaches, officials, and community leaders who have made exceptional contributions to the sport across the province. Watkins joins a distinguished class of honourees, becoming one of just over 100 inductees to be enshrined since the Hall's inception.
Durham College congratulates Coach Watkins on this remarkable and well-deserved honour.
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