After 13 years representing Canada on the international stage, Tyson Beukeboom has announced her retirement from rugby, bringing an end to a distinguished career that saw her become Canada’s most-capped rugby player across both the men’s and women’s game.
“I kept playing because I still loved it, and I still do. I wanted to continue loving the game after I was done playing,” said Beukeboom. “I didn’t want rugby to push me out; I wanted to choose when my time was up.”
Beukeboom made her international debut against England in July 2013. Since then, the second row has earned 84 caps for Canada, represented her country at four Rugby World Cups, won two silver medals in 2014 and 2025, and helped secure a Pacific Four Series title in 2024. Her career has been defined by consistency, leadership and an unwavering commitment to the Canadian jersey.
“I love the physicality of the sport, and I love being someone that brought that physicality and really made a statement with it, but I’m also so happy to not hit anyone, or get hit ever again. I think I’m just honoured to be a part of such a pivotal moment in women’s sport, women’s rugby, and Canadian women’s rugby.”
A native of Uxbridge, Ontario, Beukeboom established herself as one of Canada’s most accomplished players during her 13 years with the national team, contributing to Canada’s success through her physical presence, reliability and strong understanding of the game.
Beyond the statistics and milestones, Beukeboom’s impact has been felt through her leadership and the standard she set for those around her. Reflecting on her career and the moments that shaped it, Beukeboom shared:
“I think I always left everything on the field and did the best I could for my team. I think that, through that tournament [2025 Rugby World Cup] alone, we made a massive, massive statement and made a name for ourselves around the world. The Canadian women’s team has been building toward that point for a long time, and it’s an honour to now be part of that legacy.”
Throughout her career, Beukeboom also represented several clubs at home and abroad. She played for Cowichan RFC in British Columbia and the Aurora Barbarians in Ontario before taking her talents to England, where she competed in the Premiership Women’s Rugby league with the Ealing Trailfinders