When we still lived in San Jose me and my wife would try and set aside a weekend every year where we took a mini vacation from the kiddos and just get away the two of us. even though there is plenty of options living in the south bay on where anyone can go for a weekend get away in ether direction you point your vehicle to we enjoyed going to Monterey as our go to place year after year. I also have some type of connection to the area as when my grandfather was in the navy and stationed in Monterey area my mother was born at Fort Ord, which is now slowly being turned in CSU Monterey Bay. Just like how about every university in this country has a rugby club so to does just about every town or city or "area" has one. So it was a shocker to me when I recently found out that there is no women's rugby team in Monterey with the closest being in San Jose. I am happy to say that Spencer from the monarchs is happy enough to answer some questions about this newly formed team and how they are growing.
LLR- Can you please introduce yourself, and your history to Rugby Union?
SHP- I’m Spencer Henry-Phillips! I’ve been playing rugby for the better part of 10 years. I started off playing for UC Santa Barbara in college where I played hooker and prop. Since then, I’ve played for The Portland Pigs, LifeWest Gladiatrix, and San Francisco Golden Gate. I am now the head coach for CSU Monterey Bay Women’s Rugby team. As you can see, I love this game!
LLR- What brought about the creation of the Monterey monarchs?
SHP- As the head coach for CSUMB, I noticed a lot of players didn’t really have anymore to go or play for during the summer or after they graduated if they stayed in the area. The closest team is San Jose and that’s still over an hour away. I saw the need and decided who better than me to get it going.
LLR- Why the monarchs as a name?
SHP- The monarchs of Pacific Grove are legendary and I love a good alliteration. I also feel like the Monarch Butterfly represents everything I want for this team: strength, beauty, and a chance to transform the next generation of ruggers.
LLR- Where are practices currently held and times, and where will home field be?
SHP- Practices are currently on Thursdays, 6-8pm, at Lincoln Park in East Garrison. We’re still working on the home field but have no fear, we will get that solidified!
LLR- In what division will the monarchs play in?
SHP- Ideally, we will play in the NCRFU Women’s Division 2! I know we have a lot of support from the conference and they’ve been incredible in navigating this new adventure.
LLR- What are some goals you wish to see the team meet this first year and by year 5?
SHP- I really want to see us make a name for ourselves in the community our first year. I want the people of Monterey County to know who we are. Five year goal is to have a sustainable and successful club that is regarded a real challenger in our division.
LLR- Do you think the world cups in both 2031 and 2033 have an effect on rugby as a whole in the Monterey County area?
SHP- I sure hope so! I know that the west coast is a big contender to host, whether that be in San Diego, LA, the Bay Area, or even Colorado, and I know that it can only boost the game.
LLR- How and where can people interested in fallowing along get in touch with you and the team?
SHP- You can like us on Facebook: Facebook.com/MontereyMonarchsRugby
Follow us on Instagram: @MontereyMonarchsRugby
LLR- Last word you’d like to get out?
SHP- We just launched our first fundraising campaign! Get you Monarch Tank here:
And support your local rugby team!
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