LIFE WEST GLADIATORS

A few months back i did a Q&A with Life West and there beginnings of there new rugby mens program. participating in norcal mens DIII division this still was no cake walk for them, especially playing against clubs that where already established and playing for years against each other. to pull out a undefeated season i am sure was nothing but a dream for everyone involved when pen was hitting paper in creating the program. None the less my hat goes off to Life West and all those involved, players, coaches, trainers, managers and all family and friends involved that attributed to a amazing run during first year and deep into the playoffs. Viki Hudson, forwards and assistant coach for life west, answered a few questions pertaining to overview of season, off season plans and national rugby headlines. 

LLR- Life just finished off not only there first year but a absolute shocker, amazing, wonderful first season. How disappointing was it to see your self’s get so close to not only go undefeated in regular season play but also in playoff play and then lose it in the final?

VH- The Gladiators were focused all season on just playing our absolute best. Winning was just the by product from asking the players to put forth their best effort, stay disciplined and execute the game plan and that created great team play, an undefeated season and an exceptional post season run. We didn’t play our best game in the final at Nationals and for the first time, we were more focused on winning than on executing the game plan with our best effort. The boys had some brilliant plays though and excellent multi-phases of play and just that the team got there in its first year is a phenomenal accomplishment. We held the far more experienced opposition to just 25 points and got on the board with 7 points; everyone associated with the Gladiators are immensely proud of each and every player and the team as a whole.

LLR- Will the same team be back for next season?

VH- We don’t expect much team turnover though we do expect a number of new players who will have just graduated high school locally that will move up to the Gladiators, perhaps a few transfers that live in the Hayward area and of course, with the rugby scholarship for students at Life Chiropractic College West that will bring in a few more domestic and international players too. This influx will enable us to continue building and field both an A and B side in the next season.

LLR- Going forward into the off season of xv’s what plans do you guys have as a club to keep guys in shape and the ball rolling?

VH- The boys had a few weeks off after nationals and then we had some touch rugby sessions. Now, we’re training for sevens. Those not playing sevens will continue their off season and 15s prep work.

LLR- What 7’s tournaments are you guys involved in for this summer?

VH- The team is entered in the Palo Alto Sevens. We competed in the first iteration recently with two sides, Gladiator Sword and Gladiator Shield, Sword ended the day 5 – 0 undefeated while the Shield ended with 4 wins and a tied game.  

LLR- With such a great first year has that helped bring in more sponsors for the club or create more exposure with in the community?

VH- The word on the Gladiators is still getting out there. We are hopeful the successful run will certainly help with bringing in more sponsors. We are always looking for individuals or companies that want to invest in this great program.

LLR- When could we see the college it’s self-begin to compete in the college level and at what Division would the team play in?

VH- The fielding of a fully collegiate side is the objective though there will always remain the legacy of a community team for graduate students, alumni and community members. In fact, the college is currently conducting a search for the newly created Athletic Director position who will also take over as Head Coach for the rugby team as Coach Tez Molloy is returning overseas.

LLR- Will the gladiators be moving up any divisions in the mens competition to DII or DI?

VH- We anticipate a move into NCRFU’s men’s DII. A move into DI would be too much at the stage where we are now. DII will bring its own challenges and much tougher competition.

LLR- A few questions outside of LIFE WEST rugby,

What do you think about the ALL Blacks game in November and the sellout crowd, will this game do more harm than good or is it great for rugby in America?

VH- Bringing international rugby and our national sides into our communities is good for the sport all around as the more people see rugby and experience the excitement and thrill of the game, the more people will want to watch, play, and support the game.

LLR- Thoughts on USA 7’s program?

VH- This is an exciting time for American rugby, especially Sevens, for men and women. Most Olympic sports you have to start that Olympic dream when you’re in grade school. Not American rugby. There are athletes just now in high school or college that will be in competition for Olympic rugby gold.

LLR- Lastly, what is your opinion on the Super 7’s model being shopped around, will it catch on or will it be disaster?

VH- Wait and see.


*if you want to keep up with the Gladiators be sure to fallow them on facebook and twitter: https://www.facebook.com/LifeWestRugby ,  @GladiatorRugby