Georgian Grizzlies Name Donovan Jacko as Inaugural Women's Rugby Sevens Head Coach

Barrie, ON – Today the Georgian Grizzlies proudly announce the appointment of Donovan Jacko as the first-ever head coach of the Georgian Grizzlies women’s rugby sevens team, set to being official competition in the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) in 2026.

Jacko has been a part of the rugby community for the past 19 years and recently helped coach the varsity girls and junior boys team at Barrie North Collegiate.

A former team captain and five-year member of the Grizzlies men’s rugby team, he capped off his collegiate career with a gold medal in 2023. 

During his time at Georgian, Donovan was named a league all-star on four occasions and was recognized with the Howard/Belcourt Award for outstanding sportsmanship, dedication, attitude, and leadership.

Under his leadership, the women’s rugby team will begin training in the fall, laying the foundation for a competitive debut season.

“Donovan is a strong communicator, a proven leader, and the ideal person to build our women’s rugby sevens program from the ground up,” said Jeff Harris, Varsity Manager at Georgian College.

“I’m honoured to join the Grizzlies and lead this historic new chapter,” said Jacko. “Simcoe County has a strong tradition in rugby, and there is solid growth in the girls game at the high school and club level. I’m excited to help shape a program that will empower student-athletes on and off the field”

Recruitment of the inaugural roster is already underway, with development sessions set to being in September.

The addition of women’s rugby sevens reflects Georgian’s ongoing commitment to athletic excellence, gender equity in sport, and community engagement.