Kianna Laurin is bringing her newfound passion for rugby to New Brunswick.
 
The Ottawa, ON, native will join the St. Thomas Tommies on the pitch this fall as they work toward another successful campaign in the Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association. 
 
The soon-to-be high school grad said coming to Fredericton and joining the St. Thomas community will be a chance to "experience something new."
 
"I'm not a big city person, so I feel Fredericton is a perfect fit. I feel like I could really fit in at STU," she said. "After visiting campus, it was obvious this is where I want to study. I can't wait for what's in store for the next four years."
 
Laurin only began playing rugby two years ago, but she's amassed an impressive amount of experience. She's competed with her high school, Pius X, with the Barrhaven Scottish junior club program, and has been involved with the Ontario provincial 7's rugby team. 
 
Tommies head coach Meghan Morrison said despite being new to the game, Laurin will be a great addition to the team's backfield. 
 
"Kianna is a young, versatile player who has played a number of different positions already. Although she's only taken on rugby recently, she's had some great exposure to high-level competition." 
 
Laurin, who has competed in both 7's and 15's, will be a centre for the Tommies. Having previously played soccer, she's developed the ability to kick for points on the rugby field. 
 
"She's a quick learner and can contribute in a number of different ways," Morrison said. "I'm looking forward to her joining us and watching her growth with the program over her four years at STU."
 
Laurin is the first new recruit to join the ACAA silver-medal winning Tommies for the 2016 season.