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Expert: 150th anniversary of first intercollegiate rugby game in North America to be marked with McGill vs. Harvard match  

Published: 17 October 2024

On Oct. 19 at 4:30 p.m., the McGill Redbirds will face off against the Harvard Crimson at Molson Stadium in a historic rugby match commemorating the 150th anniversary of the first intercollegiate rugby game in North America. 

The Covo Cup, first established in 1974 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the McGill-Harvard rugby encounter in 1874, honours this storied rivalry. McGill, holding a 24-14 series lead, will also unveil a special 150th anniversary uniform at the game. 

Earl Zukerman, who has served the past 45 years as a Sports Information Officer at McGill Athletics & Recreation, is available for interviews. A McGill grad (BA ’80), he serves as an unofficial sports historian for the University.   

earl.zukerman [at] mcgill.ca (English) 

Game information: 

  • Saturday, October 19, 2024, 4:30 p.m. 

  • Percival Molson Stadium 

  • $23 (General Admission), $13 (McGill Students & Staff, seniors), $5 (youths 16 and under) 

  • Broadcast: Live on McGill Streaming Network and CBC Gem 

  • Pre-game: Harvard vs. McGill alumni teams (12:00 p.m.) and Montreal 1862 Rugby Football Club vs. Atlantic Privateers (2:00 p.m.) 

A commemorative plaque will be unveiled before the game, and the half-time show will feature a youth team scrimmage. Fans will receive a complimentary McGill Redbirds T-shirt upon entry. 

For more details and the full history of the rivalry, visit: McGill Athletics

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