Toronto Arrows’ Rob Brouwer speaks with his teammates during a game against the Houston SaberCats in Houston, Texas on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019 in this handout photo. Prop Rob Brouwer is a study in hard work and perseverance. He became Canada’s oldest rugby debutant when he stepped on the field against Brazil in February 2016 at the age of 33 years 72 days.
Dave Snook / THE CANADIAN PRESS
Toronto Arrows prop Rob Brouwer came late to rugby and, at age 36, still has high hopes in the sport.
The teacher from Lindsay, Ont., is looking to crack Canada’s World Cup roster this fall.
“I’m just hoping that being able to play week-in, week-out, play some good-calibre rugby, I can put my hand up and keep improving on the things that I may need to improve on,” he said. “Just put together a string of good performances and build on that winning culture with the Arrows and hopefully I’ll get the attention of the selectors for the upcoming World Cup.”
The six-foot-three, 260-pounder became Canada’s oldest rugby debutante in February 2016 when he stepped on the field against Brazil at the age of 33 years 72 days.
“A big moment,” he recalled.
“Obviously you could look at my career and say it was a long time coming. But I never ever thought that I was overlooked at the time,” he added. “I just felt I should work harder.”