TORONTO - Canada's next bid to reach the elite level of junior rugby competition will take place next year in Antofagasta, Chile.

The Canadians are one of eight teams competing in the second-tier IRB Junior World Rugby Trophy 2013. The others are host Chile, Italy, Japan, Namibia, Portugal, Tonga and Uruguay.

The winner will earn promotion to the elite IRB Junior World Championship 2014 — which features the top 12 junior teams — in New Zealand.

The U.S. won promotion at the 2012 Junior World Rugby Trophy in Utah, holding on to defeat Japan 37-33 in July.

They replace Italy, which was relegated to the second-tier event after placing 12th at the Junior World Championship.

The Americans will join South Africa, New Zealand, Wales, Argentina, Ireland, France, England, Australia, Scotland, Samoa and Fiji at the 2013 tournament in France.

Canada finished sixth in the 2012 second-tier event, losing 43-31 to Chile in its final game.

The Junior World Rugby Trophy 2013 is scheduled for May 28 to June 9.

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