Axewomen rugby add Nova Scotia standout Jorja Matchem for 2026 season

The Acadia Axewomen rugby program has added another top provincial talent with the commitment of Waterside, N.S., native Jorja Matchem for the 2026 Atlantic University Sport (AUS) season.

Matchem, a 5-foot-5 fullback and wing, joins Acadia after emerging as one of the strongest backline players in the Nova Scotia high-school and provincial systems. A student at Northumberland Regional High School, she played a key role in helping the Nighthawks win the 2024 regional championship.

At the provincial level, Matchem has built an impressive résumé with the Nova Scotia Keltics. She earned a silver medal with the U16 women’s side at the 2024 Atlantic Championships before returning in 2025 to help the U17 team capture gold. During that run, she served as a backline captain, highlighting the leadership qualities she brings both on and off the pitch.

Matchem’s speed, field awareness, and ability to attack from width have been defining elements of her game, making her a consistent threat in open play and a reliable presence defensively.

She said the opportunity to join Acadia felt like the right step both athletically and academically.

“I’m excited to be committing to Acadia to play rugby and join a team that values commitment and hard work,” said Matchem. “The program is dedicated to assisting student-athletes to reach their full potential in athletics and academics, which is something I am truly passionate about. I’m looking forward to joining not only a team but a family that shares the same values.”

Matchem will enrol in kinesiology when she arrives in Wolfville in 2026.