*Boulder Lions Tame Tigers Rugby, 27-15 from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Tigers Rugby Football Club enjoyed a wonderful day on the best pitch in the nation Saturday (3/6/2010), but fell to a tough and opportunistic Boulder Lions RFC, 27-15.  The Tigers B side also dropped a 12-0 decision.  Both teams showed better organization in their second periods.  The sunny blue skies and the mountain backdrops were a great way to spend a day, win or lose.  Boulder Lions are a rapidly improving Division II club  that had never beaten a Tigers Rugby A-side in our seven year history.  Three cheers go out to Boulder Coaches John Barkmeier, and Jim Bruce for their supportive development of a program with consistently enormous potential.  Tigers and Boulder have enjoyed a long divisional rivalry which was well bolstered with this meeting. 

Albert Whitemore and Warren Wood took the helm  with  a variety of back line and back row combinations.  Boulder put up 12 points in the first half and were equal to the Tigers with 15 apiece in the second.  Albert Whitemore scored first for the Tigers to make it 22-5, and with 8 minutes remaining, the Tigers went on a 10 point tear.  With a minute left, down 22-15,  the Tigers wasted a possesion in the midfield, and gave up a long Boulder try to end the match at ...]]>

*Boulder Lions Tame Tigers Rugby, 27-15 from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Tigers Rugby Football Club enjoyed a wonderful day on the best pitch in the nation Saturday (3/6/2010), but fell to a tough and opportunistic Boulder Lions RFC, 27-15.  The Tigers B side also dropped a 12-0 decision.  Both teams showed better organization in their second periods.  The sunny blue skies and the mountain backdrops were a great way to spend a day, win or lose.  Boulder Lions are a rapidly improving Division II club  that had never beaten a Tigers Rugby A-side in our seven year history.  Three cheers go out to Boulder Coaches John Barkmeier, and Jim Bruce for their supportive development of a program with consistently enormous potential.  Tigers and Boulder have enjoyed a long divisional rivalry which was well bolstered with this meeting. 

Albert Whitemore and Warren Wood took the helm  with  a variety of back line and back row combinations.  Boulder put up 12 points in the first half and were equal to the Tigers with 15 apiece in the second.  Albert Whitemore scored first for the Tigers to make it 22-5, and with 8 minutes remaining, the Tigers went on a 10 point tear.  With a minute left, down 22-15,  the Tigers wasted a possesion in the midfield, and gave up a long Boulder try to end the match at 27-15.  Man of the Match was Alec Walters.  Albert Whitemore, Patrick O’Connor, and Warren Wood collected tries for the Tigers in the second half.

The B side was treated to the introduction of a few new players to the team.  King Medlin of Holy Family, Matt Woolem of Pomona, and Bobby Stomski of Standley Lake HS made everyone notice their debuts for Tigers RFC.  The B side was outscored 12-0 in the first half, then tightened up a 0-0 second half to end the day.  Thomas Guilinger proved to be a force in the set pieces at second row and in loose play supporting the rucks and mauls.  Oliver Smith, Rob Nees, Ricardo Cid,  Ryan Rockwood and Danny Fiorino were instrumental in stabilizing a sluggish Tigers start.  Gradually, the urgency was more apparent as the control of the ball, and pressure from the full back highlighted the match for the Tigers in the final 5 miunutes.

*Week Two: Tigers Rugby 29, Cherry Creek 7 from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Tigers Rugby Football Club stepped into uncharted territory with a 29-7 victory of Cherry Creek HS Rugby Club. A perennial powerhouse, the Bruins were upstaged by the aggressive Tigers Rugby lineout defense, ball movement by their backs, tight five, back row and scrum half play. Albert Whitemore took a game ball home as “Man of the Match” for his effort in playing advantages repeatedly, and putting intense pressure on the Cherry Creek playmakers. The Tigers improved their Division I league record to 2-0. The overall club record progressed to 4-3-1.

Monday, March 1, 2010
Tigers Freshmen and Sophomores joined forces with Northside Vikings for the season. Alec Walters led the Tigers/Viking alliance in to battle against Regis Jesuit first, failing in a late comeback attempt, by a score of 20-12. Against East HS, the Tigers showed significant control and rapidly improving ball movement, pressuring the Angels with more than the 17-5 score implies. Nick Dorwart, Walker Prieb, Michael Figundo, Robert Kaniecki, Charlie Ellwood, Danny Fiorino, Luke Rockwood, Braden Thunell, Ryan Rockwood, and Mitchell Thunell combined with 5 Northside underclassmen to learn the game together through the spring. Schemes and patterns were becoming increasingly apparent to the last play of each ...]]>

*Week Two: Tigers Rugby 29, Cherry Creek 7 from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Tigers Rugby Football Club stepped into uncharted territory with a 29-7 victory of Cherry Creek HS Rugby Club. A perennial powerhouse, the Bruins were upstaged by the aggressive Tigers Rugby lineout defense, ball movement by their backs, tight five, back row and scrum half play. Albert Whitemore took a game ball home as “Man of the Match” for his effort in playing advantages repeatedly, and putting intense pressure on the Cherry Creek playmakers. The Tigers improved their Division I league record to 2-0. The overall club record progressed to 4-3-1.

Monday, March 1, 2010
Tigers Freshmen and Sophomores joined forces with Northside Vikings for the season. Alec Walters led the Tigers/Viking alliance in to battle against Regis Jesuit first, failing in a late comeback attempt, by a score of 20-12. Against East HS, the Tigers showed significant control and rapidly improving ball movement, pressuring the Angels with more than the 17-5 score implies. Nick Dorwart, Walker Prieb, Michael Figundo, Robert Kaniecki, Charlie Ellwood, Danny Fiorino, Luke Rockwood, Braden Thunell, Ryan Rockwood, and Mitchell Thunell combined with 5 Northside underclassmen to learn the game together through the spring. Schemes and patterns were becoming increasingly apparent to the last play of each match.

Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Tigers Rugby’s pack was up to the challenge on this night, beating Cherry Creek 29-7. Winning 75% of the scrums, and developing a strong push, the tight five was outstanding (Jake Gossman, Jake Boselli, Matt McLean, Walker Prieb and Jared Hutchinson).  Led by Patrick O’Connor at 8-man, with flanker support from Peter Loving, Andrew Hutchinson and Mitchell Thunell, the back row played out their combinations with good success early, creating breakaway advantages for Albert and Jimmy Higden. Nick Allen redefined the fly half position. He was aggressive, determined and hugely successful, scoring two critical tries. The Tigers Rugby backline combination of Allen, Warren Wood, Zach Underwood, Fullback Anthony Puglise, and Wings AJ Shannon, and Jimmy Higden is well supported by Christian Wallis, Alec Walters, Luke Rockwood and Eric Robles. This is the first win over Cherry Creek at any level in our history. Tigers Rugby holds a 4-21 record against Division I teams over the 6 previous years, and have made consistent progress in distinct ways every year. Being 2-0 in league play, and 4-3-1 overall shows depth and growing experience. The genius of Assistant Head Coach Nick Samaras is showing.

Scoring:
- Albert Whitemore, Missed Conversion 5
- Nick Allen, Made Conversion Andrew Hutchinson 7
- Jimmy Higden, Missed Conversion 5
- Nick Allen, Missed Conversion 5
End of first half 22-0
- Albert Whitemore, Made Conversion Albert 7
- Cherry Creek, Made Conversion 7
Final: Tigers 29, Cherry Creek  7
Man of the Match, Albert Whitemore

To play Tigers Rugby, or for general information, call (303) 506-8110.

Saturday (3/6/2010):
Pleasantview Park’s Rugby Stadium is a dream come true. 22 meter deep try zones with the goal posts on the goal line and beautiful flat grass pitch – the way rugby is supposed to be played.
http://soccerfieldsofcolorado.com/maps/pleasant_view_fields

Monday (3/8/2010):
Freshmen and Sophomores play at North Area Open Spaces in Thornton. Kick off is at 4:30, and we will need to be there early (3:30 pm) to get a good draw. We will be done when the sun goes down (6:00 pm).
http://soccerfieldsofcolorado.com/maps/northwest_open_space
Upperclassmen practice at Broadlands starting at 3:15

Wednesday (3/10/2010):
Regis Jesuit HS (under the lights), A side (Colorado Catholic HS Rugby Championship match), B side
Kickoff at 7:30 pm. Warm ups (dressed) at 6:30 pm.
http://soccerfieldsofcolorado.com/maps/regis_jesuit_high_school

Completed Matches
2/20/2010 Denver East Invitational 0-22 A side, 5- F/S. 5-5 B side (1-1-1)
2/24/2010 Northside Vikings 24-5 (1-1 A side, 2-1-1)
2/27/2010 SWARM 22-14 (1-0, 3-1-1)
3/1/2010 Fresh/Soph Festival #1: Regis 12-10, East 5-17 (1-2 F/S, 3-3-1)
3/3/2010 Cherry Creek 29-7 (2-0, 4-3-1)

Pending Matches
3/6/2010

Tomorrow (Saturday) we warm-up at 10:00 am in Boulder’s Pleasant View Park in the Rugby Stadium:  http://www.soccerfieldsofcolorado.com/maps/pleasant_view_fields

3/8/2010

Monday, Fresh/Soph warm-up at 3:30 in North Area Open Spaces in Northglenn: http://www.soccerfieldsofcolorado.com/maps/northwest_open_space

3/10/2010

Wednesday, we warm-up at 6:30 pm at Regis Jesuit HS Stadium to play for the Colorado Catholic HS Rugby Championship Trophy: http://www.soccerfieldsofcolorado.com/maps/regis_jesuit_high_school

3/13/2010

Saturday, Spring Fling Tournament: (Warm-up time TBA) in the Northwest Open Space in Northglenn: http://www.soccerfieldsofcolorado.com/maps/northwest_open_space
3/17/2010 (Wednesday) Aurora @ Broomfield County Commons Park – 3:30 Warm-up
3/27/2010 (Saturday) Aurora @ Dick’s Sporting Good’s Park Soccer Stadium – 1:00 pm
4/3/2010 (Saturday) Rocky Mountain Classic Tournament @ Dick’s Sporting Goods Park (DSGP)
4/5/2010 (Monday) Freshman/Sophomore Festival #3
4/7/2010 (Wednesday) Denver East HS @ Broomfield County Commons Park 5:00 pm
4/10/2010 (Saturday) Tigers Rugby B-side @ Ranch Rugby (ThunderRidge) TBD
4/14/2010 (Wednesday) @ Chaparral HS – 5:00 pm
4/19/2010 (Monday) Freshman/Sophomore #4
4/21/2010 (Wednesday) @ Colorado Springs – 5:00pm
4/28/2010 (Wednesday) CYR Promoting/Relegating Matches TBD
5/1/2010 (Saturday) State Quarterfinal Matches @ DSGP
5/8/2010 (Saturday) State Semifinal @ DSGP
5/13/2010 (Thursday) State Championship matches @ Englewood High School
5/22/2010 (Saturday) State All Star matches, location TBD

*Tigers Rugby Wins First Division I Match from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Tigers Rugby inherited a home match at the last minute and capitalized on other opportunities to top the former State Champions, SWARM RFC today by a 22-14 score.  The Colorado Youth Rugby league match was originally scheduled for Rooney Sports Complex along C-470, which was closed by snow.

Twenty miles further north, and 2 hours earlier than originally scheduled, the Southwest Area Rugby Men scored first, executing penalties, effectively kicking, and controlling the early lineouts.

Tigers Captain and scrum-half Albert Whitemore created enormous pressure on the retreating Columbine and  Chatfield HS students, as he tapped and advanced repeated SWARM penalties.  He was awarded an eventual penalty try.

Jimmy Higden showed his breakaway speed again, as he one handed a Swarm knock-on about one foot off the ground, and never breaking stride, weaved his way for a 70 meter try from the right wing.

Patrick O’Connor rambled with the ball a number of times, but finally hit paydirt straight up the middle to put the Tigers ahead 22-14.  Tremendous backline movement on the last play of the match fell short on a Tigers goal line knock-on, but showed the progress that had been made in the past week.

Scoring: Tries by Albert Whitemore (penalty try), Jimmy ...]]>

*Tigers Rugby Wins First Division I Match from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Tigers Rugby inherited a home match at the last minute and capitalized on other opportunities to top the former State Champions, SWARM RFC today by a 22-14 score.  The Colorado Youth Rugby league match was originally scheduled for Rooney Sports Complex along C-470, which was closed by snow.

Patrick O'Connor snags a critical SWARM lineout.

Twenty miles further north, and 2 hours earlier than originally scheduled, the Southwest Area Rugby Men scored first, executing penalties, effectively kicking, and controlling the early lineouts.

Pomona's Nick Allen starts the backline surge for Tigers Rugby against Columbine and Chatfield rugby players.

Tigers Captain and scrum-half Albert Whitemore created enormous pressure on the retreating Columbine and  Chatfield HS students, as he tapped and advanced repeated SWARM penalties.  He was awarded an eventual penalty try.

Jimmy Higden beats the last SWARM defender on his 70 meter sprint for a try.

Jimmy Higden showed his breakaway speed again, as he one handed a Swarm knock-on about one foot off the ground, and never breaking stride, weaved his way for a 70 meter try from the right wing.

Patrick O'Connor draws a crowd as he drives deep into SWARM territory.

Patrick O’Connor rambled with the ball a number of times, but finally hit paydirt straight up the middle to put the Tigers ahead 22-14.  Tremendous backline movement on the last play of the match fell short on a Tigers goal line knock-on, but showed the progress that had been made in the past week.

Jake Boselli battles for a loose ball.

Scoring: Tries by Albert Whitemore (penalty try), Jimmy Higden, Patrick O’Connor, Conversion by Alec Walters.  Final score: Tigers RFC 22 – SWARM 14.
Man of the Match: Patrick O’Connor

Tigers Rugby overall club record now stands ar 4-1-1, and 1-0 in league play.
Tigers Rugby A side, wearing the new Tigers Whte jerseys, topped the Tigers B-side 15-10 .   Scoring was incomplete for this posting.  Check back for more details.

This is the remaining schedule before Spring Break:

*Tigers Maul Northside Vikings, 24-5 from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Tigers Rugby Football Club met traditional cross-town rivals, Northside Vikings on a snowy Championship Field in Broomfield County Commons Park on Wednesday February 24, 2010.  Northside, with a powerful back row, and smart playmakers, picked up the opening kickoff and ran the ball out the end line.   Taking the advantage of a number of dropped balls in the icy conditions, the Tigers regrouped.  Scrums became a series of 8-man and scrumhalf takes. Off loading by first Daniel Sargeant, and then Patrick O’Connor set up multiple phases of play.  Pressure and continuity was on display as over 30 Tigers Rugby players saw action.  After 4 days of competition, the Tigers Rugby club has a amassed a 3-1-1 record.

Albert Whitemore opened the scoring after kicking and persistent Tigers rucking pinned the Vikings deep, and prompted a penalty.  Whitemore tapped and scored a try, then converted the attempt (1  for 4), to make the score 7-0 after 10 minutes of play.  Matt Mclean returned to Tigers Rugby with his Zulu try (first ever) on a decisive 20 meter dash straight up the pitch, and the score was 12-0.  All State Linebacker,  Daijon Tyler finished a long run up the sideline to put the Tigers Rugby A-side up by a score of 17-0.  Warren Wood banged a try through the ...]]>

*Tigers Maul Northside Vikings, 24-5 from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Tigers Rugby Football Club met traditional cross-town rivals, Northside Vikings on a snowy Championship Field in Broomfield County Commons Park on Wednesday February 24, 2010.  Northside, with a powerful back row, and smart playmakers, picked up the opening kickoff and ran the ball out the end line.   Taking the advantage of a number of dropped balls in the icy conditions, the Tigers regrouped.  Scrums became a series of 8-man and scrumhalf takes. Off loading by first Daniel Sargeant, and then Patrick O’Connor set up multiple phases of play.  Pressure and continuity was on display as over 30 Tigers Rugby players saw action.  After 4 days of competition, the Tigers Rugby club has a amassed a 3-1-1 record.

Albert Whitemore opened the scoring after kicking and persistent Tigers rucking pinned the Vikings deep, and prompted a penalty.  Whitemore tapped and scored a try, then converted the attempt (1  for 4), to make the score 7-0 after 10 minutes of play.  Matt Mclean returned to Tigers Rugby with his Zulu try (first ever) on a decisive 20 meter dash straight up the pitch, and the score was 12-0.  All State Linebacker,  Daijon Tyler finished a long run up the sideline to put the Tigers Rugby A-side up by a score of 17-0.  Warren Wood banged a try through the middle of the Vikings backline before Daijon Tyler made his first conversion of the year (1 for 2).  The Northside back row fought hard for a try late in the second half to make the final score 24-5.  Daijon Tyler ran wild against the Viking B side for 2 more tries to best Northside 10-0 in the nightcap. 

 The luxury of a multitude of accomplished athletes learning the urgency of quick backline assemblies, and persistent forward play added to the continuity, pressure, forward movement and speed of execution.  What a difference a solid Monday practice made.  Thanks to Coach Nick Samaras for an aggressive and disciplined game plan.  A battle with a powerful Vikings pack proved to be an endurance test won by the deep stable of fast Tigers Rugby big men.

A side

Albert Whitemore Try 5, Albert Whitemore Conversion good 2; Matt McLean Try 5, Albert Whitemore Missed conversion; Daijon Tyler Try 5, Albert Whitmore Conversion missed; Warren Wood Try 5, Daijon Tyler Conversion good 2; Northside Try 5, Conversion missed. FINAL A Side score: 24-5

B Side

Daijon Tyler 5, Albert Whitmore Conversion missed; Daijon Tyler 5. Daijon Tyler Conversion missed. FINAL B Side score: 10-0

*Tigers Rugby goes 1-1-1 at #1 Denver East from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Whitemore Captains First Match of the Season

Tigers Rugby Football Club opened the 2010 season against the State Champion Denver East HS Angels on a snowy East HS field. The East A side dominated the Tigers 22-0 with quick, and ultimately lethal backline players that reset like a whip, overloading the Tigers repeatedly.   Tigers Rugby Captains Albert Whitemore and Patrick O’Connor led the powerful pack including Early College HS’s Daniel Sargeant; Jake Gossman, Walker Prieb, Jake Boselli, Oliver Smith, Sam Quinn, Matt McLean, and Rob Nees from Holy Family HS, and Andrew Hutchinson and Jared Riemer of Standley Lake HS.

Pomona HS’s 5-A Runner-up Football players,  Warren Wood, Daijon Tyler Jimmy Higden, AJ Shannon; Ralston Valley HS’s Ryan Rockwood; Holy Family’s Alec Walters and Anthony Puglise; and Zach Underwood of Standley Lake HS regrouped to tie the potent East HS B side by a score of 5-5 on a try by AJ Shannon.

The Tigers novice players made of of primarily Freshman and Sophomores were led by Andrew Hutchinson and Nick Dorwort (Pomona HS), Sam Quinn and Luke Rockwood, in an upset of the well trained Denver East C-side by the score of 5-0. Standley Lake’s Andrew Hutchinson ran 30 ...]]>

*Tigers Rugby goes 1-1-1 at #1 Denver East from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Whitemore Captains First Match of the Season

Tigers Rugby Football Club opened the 2010 season against the State Champion Denver East HS Angels on a snowy East HS field. The East A side dominated the Tigers 22-0 with quick, and ultimately lethal backline players that reset like a whip, overloading the Tigers repeatedly.   Tigers Rugby Captains Albert Whitemore and Patrick O’Connor led the powerful pack including Early College HS’s Daniel Sargeant; Jake Gossman, Walker Prieb, Jake Boselli, Oliver Smith, Sam Quinn, Matt McLean, and Rob Nees from Holy Family HS, and Andrew Hutchinson and Jared Riemer of Standley Lake HS.

Pomona HS’s 5-A Runner-up Football players,  Warren Wood, Daijon Tyler Jimmy Higden, AJ Shannon; Ralston Valley HS’s Ryan Rockwood; Holy Family’s Alec Walters and Anthony Puglise; and Zach Underwood of Standley Lake HS regrouped to tie the potent East HS B side by a score of 5-5 on a try by AJ Shannon.

The Tigers novice players made of of primarily Freshman and Sophomores were led by Andrew Hutchinson and Nick Dorwort (Pomona HS), Sam Quinn and Luke Rockwood, in an upset of the well trained Denver East C-side by the score of 5-0. Standley Lake’s Andrew Hutchinson ran 30 meters to ground the ball for the first try of his career.

Charlie Elwood, Michael Figundo, Dany Fiorino, Robert Kaniecki, and Marcus Pattiluga of Holy Family HS were integral parts of the momentum that the club gained throughout the day, wining their first rugby match on record.

*Rugby: Invictus (Unbeatable)! from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Tigers Rugby is actively recruiting 13-18 year old boys.  Size, strength and speed are abundant in the rugby recruits seen since practice began in December for the spring season, but there is plenty of room for everyone in this club. Tigers Rugby Football Club begins our 7th campaign, with Arvada, Westminster and Broomfield high school (U-19 and U-16) players, and an adult team. The high school age boys rugby club competes in Colorado Youth Rugby, one of the country’s most successful State Based Model Organizations. Adults (U-23 & Alumni Social Side) also play under the auspices of the Eastern Rockies Rugby Football Union, Western RFU, and USA Rugby.

We anticipate the forthcoming season as a Colorado Youth Rugby Division I team with veterans Patrick O’Connor, Albert Whitemore, Jake Gossman, Alec Walters, Walker Prieb, Jake Boselli, Oliver Smith, Sam Quinn and Rob Nees from Holy Family HS.  From Pomona HS, Warren Wood, Daijon Tyler and Nick Allen also return to the Tigers backline support.  Ralston Valley HS returns Luke & Ryan Rockwood, Mitchell and Braden Thunell; and Daniel Sargeant brings his skills back from Early College HS.   In preseason workouts, the Tigers have seen 34 players report already.  New players from Arvada and Broomfield that have been on hand to learn the fastest growing sport in the USA, include Matt McLean, Charlie Elwood, Michael Figundo, Dany ...]]>

*Rugby: Invictus (Unbeatable)! from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Tigers Rugby is actively recruiting 13-18 year old boys.  Size, strength and speed are abundant in the rugby recruits seen since practice began in December for the spring season, but there is plenty of room for everyone in this club. Tigers Rugby Football Club begins our 7th campaign, with Arvada, Westminster and Broomfield high school (U-19 and U-16) players, and an adult team. The high school age boys rugby club competes in Colorado Youth Rugby, one of the country’s most successful State Based Model Organizations. Adults (U-23 & Alumni Social Side) also play under the auspices of the Eastern Rockies Rugby Football Union, Western RFU, and USA Rugby.

We anticipate the forthcoming season as a Colorado Youth Rugby Division I team with veterans Patrick O’Connor, Albert Whitemore, Jake Gossman, Alec Walters, Walker Prieb, Jake Boselli, Oliver Smith, Sam Quinn and Rob Nees from Holy Family HS.  From Pomona HS, Warren Wood, Daijon Tyler and Nick Allen also return to the Tigers backline support.  Ralston Valley HS returns Luke & Ryan Rockwood, Mitchell and Braden Thunell; and Daniel Sargeant brings his skills back from Early College HS.   In preseason workouts, the Tigers have seen 34 players report already.  New players from Arvada and Broomfield that have been on hand to learn the fastest growing sport in the USA, include Matt McLean, Charlie Elwood, Michael Figundo, Dany Fiorino, Tyler Hsin, Robert Kaniecki, Eric & Esau Robles, Marcus Pattilugam, Anthony Puglise and King Medlin.  Jimmy Higden, AJ Shannon, Christian Wallis, and Matt Dominguez-Robinson just recently joined us from Pomona, as did Peter Loving from Ralston Valley. Early College HS’s Thomas Guilinger, and Standley Lake students Andrew Hutchinson and Zach Underwood played their first matches this week.

Tigers RFC looks forward to the spring with greatenthusiasm. As Rugby enjoys increased popularity in the North Suburban area, Tigers Rugby is enjoying growth for the 7th consecutive year. This one organized club, featuring players from5 or more schools, promotes a growing local interest and support. The team is well respected and took home league Sportsmanship Awards in 2005 and 2006. Tigers draw their players from Pomona, Ralston Valley, Early College, Standley Lake,and extensively from Holy Family High School. A yearly match against Regis Jesuit High School is a celebration culminated by the Colorado Catholic HS Boys Rugby Cup, presented to the winner. Close associations with Coach Rich Duncan of neighboring Northside Rugby Club have fostered opportunities for growth in the North Denver Metro area. Joint practices and preseason scrimmages provides a basis of order and respect for the laws of the game amongst all contestants. Above all else,having fun is our intention. Our method of teaching sportsmanship, skill and strategyin a well-controlled environment helps in the presentation of an organized Tigers Rugby game plan.

Nick Samaras, Assistant Head Coach, offers critical training for the historically quick and powerful Tigers Rugby running backs. Players receive instruction and support from 9 coaches. Club founder Paul O’Brian, the Colorado Youth Rugby Dvision II Coach of the Year in 2005, leads the coaching staff of Dylan Lewis, Mike & Matt O’Brian, Jim Twiford, Pat Quinlan, Martin Smith, and Jeff Gossman. Coaches are certified by USA Rugby, the national governing body, to coach high school and youth-aged players, including background checks. Fitness is inherent toour training method, and essential torugby players. Tigers Rugby Coaches thoroughly enjoy the conditioning and skills demonstrated by their boys after just a few shorts lessons. Though confusing to spectators at first, players adopt the laws of the game rapidly and are quick to grow attached by the world’s second most popular game.

In hope that CHSAA will one day sanction rugby, Tigers Rugby strives to exceed expectations of parents and administrators concerned with the welfare and education of young players. The positive aspects of rugby: camaraderie, fitness, discipline, sportsmanship, teamwork and mutual respect, builds self-esteem and character among our athletes. The skills developed, including ball handling, running, vision, tackling, pursuit angles, speed and strength development, punting and place kicking are applicable to other sports. Most of our athletes participate at theencouragement of their high school football coaches.

Two Arvada businessmen, Paul O’Brian, of Accelerate Physical Therapy and Pat Quinlan of Coffman & Companies Group played as team mates in the 1980s for Queen City RFC of Denver.  Coffman & Companies Group auctioned off an HVAC service van, and proceeds were donated to the club . Pat prefers his donation to benefit any boys who cannot afford the $130 registration fee. Applications are reviewed by Attorney Dylan Lewis,who contributes his time for the success of Tigers Rugby Football Club,andleads the non profit Colorado corporation with much needed guidance.  Jim O’Connor of sponsors, Gas & Arc Supply, also serves on the Tigers’ Board of Directors, which provides the opportunity for players to experience parliamentary rule in the presentation of By-laws to govern the organization, mentoring in the design of a working constitution, election of officers, and establishment of a sound mission. Tigers Rugby introduced this web site with assistance from parent and web master Steve Sadler. Here you will find helpful information about practice and matches to be played from February 24th through May, 2010.

To play rugby this spring, call Coach O’Brian at (303) 506-8110

*Tigers Rugby is Underway! from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

2/20/2010 (Saturday) @ Denver East Invitational
2/24/2010 (Wednesday) Northside Vikings on Championship Field at 4:00 pm
2/27/2010 (Saturday) @ SWARM – 12:00 noon
3/1/2010 (Monday) @ Freshman/Sophomore Festival #1
3/3/2010 (Wednesday) Cherry Creek @ Broomfield County Commons Park- 5:00 pm
3/6/2010 (Saturday) Tigers Rugby B-side @ Boulder – 5:00 pm
3/8/2010 (Monday) @ Freshman/Sophomore Festival #2
3/10/2010 (Wednesday) @ Regis Jesuit HS – 6:30 pm
3/13/2010 (Saturday): Spring Fling Tournament @ North Area Open Spaces
3/17/2010 (Wednesday) Aurora @ Broomfield County Commons Park – 5:00 pm
4/3/2010 (Saturday) Rocky Mountain Classic Tournament @ Dick’s Sporting Goods Park (DSGP)
4/5/2010 (Monday) Freshman/Sophomore Festival #3
4/7/2010 (Wednesday) Denver East HS @ Broomfield County Commons Park 5:00 pm
4/10/2010 (Saturday) Tigers Rugby B-side @ Ranch Rugby (ThunderRidge) TBD
4/14/2010 (Wednesday) @ Chaparral HS – 5:00 pm
4/19/2010 (Monday) Freshman/Sophomore #4
4/21/2010 (Wednesday) @ Colorado Springs – 5:00pm
4/28/2010 (Wednesday) CYR Promoting/Relegating Matches TBD
5/1/2010 (Saturday) State Quarterfinal Matches @DSGP
5/8/2010 (Saturday) State Semifinal @ DSGP
5/13/2010 (Thursday) State Championship matches @ Englewood High School
5/22/2010 (Saturday) State All Star matches, location TBD

*Rugby Builds Character from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Markus Harvey represents a broad base of unique life interests. Markus was a decorated student athlete at Holy Family High School, an All State Honorable Mention as a football player, and a member of the 2005 2A State Championship Football team. Harvey has also dabbled in business, since the age of 14, with the web site ToxicSports.com. He is currently a Freshman student-athlete at Western State College of Colorado.

As a four year starter with Tigers Rugby Football Club, Markus scored more tries than any other player in our history and was a two time Best Forward award winner. He led Tigers Rugby Football Club as a two year captain and ranks second on the Tigers’ all time scoring list, behind another legend, fly half and place kicker, Sam Glynn.

We asked Markus a few questions about the battle.

What have you learned from being involved in athletics at Western State?
In order to succeed in college athletics, you must be willing to dedicate a good amount of time into trying to be perfect at everything you do, whether it be in the weight room, the classroom, or the film room.

What are some of the challenges you’ve experienced as a student athlete?
At times it can be ...]]>

*Rugby Builds Character from Tigers Rugby Football Club Tigers Rugby Football Club - A High School Aged Team in Colorado Youth Rugby *

Markus Harvey represents a broad base of unique life interests. Markus was a decorated student athlete at Holy Family High School, an All State Honorable Mention as a football player, and a member of the 2005 2A State Championship Football team. Harvey has also dabbled in business, since the age of 14, with the web site ToxicSports.com. He is currently a Freshman student-athlete at Western State College of Colorado.

As a four year starter with Tigers Rugby Football Club, Markus scored more tries than any other player in our history and was a two time Best Forward award winner. He led Tigers Rugby Football Club as a two year captain and ranks second on the Tigers’ all time scoring list, behind another legend, fly half and place kicker, Sam Glynn.

We asked Markus a few questions about the battle.

What have you learned from being involved in athletics at Western State?
In order to succeed in college athletics, you must be willing to dedicate a good amount of time into trying to be perfect at everything you do, whether it be in the weight room, the classroom, or the film room.

What are some of the challenges you’ve experienced as a student athlete?
At times it can be very difficult to find the proper balance between leisure,  football, and academics, especially in the college environment where one has all the freedom they can imagine.

What have you learned about yourself in Gunnison?
I love the outdoors, fishing, hiking and the like.

If success builds character and failure reveals it, how is your first season with the Mountaineers affecting you?
It’s showed me that you don’t always need to win to appreciate the game. The best part about sports is the relationships you make with your teammates, you don’t need to win to enjoy your relationships.

You’re kind of a techie; tell me how computer skills help you succeed in your daily life as a student athlete.
I make lots of new friends by always fixing their internet.

If you had to do it all over, would you still play rugby?
Without a doubt, rugby was a great experience and showed me how important dedication is to a game.

Some might argue that rugby reflects character, others, that rugby builds character. What is certain, however, is that character builds rugby. Markus is an integral part of Tigers Rugby history with as many years, points, tries and games played as anyone, and represents well, the game of Rugby.

Former Tigers Rugby captain, Mark Harvey plays on at Western State.

Onward to greatness!

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