The 2017 preseason training is kicking off tonight for Cochrane's Men's Rugby.

Training started for the Bow Valley Grizzlies January 18, getting the team back in shape for another strong season.

In 2016, the team made it all the way to the Provincial Finals leaving with a sliver after a tough loss to Edmonton Lep Tigers in the gold medal game.

Ty Hawes, Bow Valley Rugby Club, Director, is starting his 6th season as Head Coach of the BVRC men's team and is happy they are getting much more established. Many veterans of the team are returning, which will bring some experience and speed to the up and coming athletes.

Hawes says everyone is looking forward to the upcoming season after coming off such a strong season last year.

"The boys are pretty excited after last year, and good and ready to go."

Hawes is thrilled with how far the club has come in the last five years and is looking forward to it just getting better.  He adds the focus of the few months will be on conditioning and skill building to get ready for the season opener in May.

"I want these guys not only play in Bow Valley, but to build enough skills they can go anywhere they want in the world to play."

The men's team is hoping to have a Division 2 and a Division 3 team this season; Hawes invites anyone who wants to play to come to the training sessions, experience not necessary.

To find out more about the club, click here.