Soar Higher. Hit Harder

 Rugby has a way of weaving itself into your life, shaping your community, and creating stories worth sharing. Life Love Rugby is where I get to celebrate those stories — the passion, the growth, the culture, and the people who make this sport what it is.

In this edition, I’m sharing a Q&A that highlights the journey of the Hawks program from the perspective of someone who has been there since the early days. It’s a look at how the club grew from a small youth effort into a respected high‑school contender, thanks to dedicated coaches, committed families, and a core group of players who have been grinding since their U‑10 days.

Whether you’re a parent, a player, a fan, or someone who simply loves the spirit of rugby, I hope this gives you a deeper look into what makes our rugby community special. Rugby isn’t just a sport — it’s connection, resilience, and a whole lot of heart. And around here, we honor all of it.

I'd Like to thank the VP and Assistant HC from Carmichael Hawks Rugby, Casey Curry for taking the time to answer some questions and help shine the light on such a wonderful growing program in one of the Rugby hot beds of the USA .

LLR- How did I get involved with the Hawks?

CC- I started playing rugby in High School in the late '80's, then went on to play for Sac State and a little bit for the Sacramento Men's Club.  At that time, I was involved in coaching both boys and girls High School rugby with the now defunct Cougar Rugby Club under Joe Cavallero.  I eventually found a career, got married and had kids.  When my oldest son turned 6, I learned about the Hawks, which was formed the year before.  I did not coach the first year my son played, but our current President and Head Coach, Sam Enochian started coaching the U-10's.  I started coaching the following year at the U-10 level.  For the first 3-4 years, we only fielded a U-10 & U-12 team.  We eventually "grew" to include a middle school team.  We struggled for players for the first 10 years or so of our existence, and saw some families bail on us to some larger programs.  We believed we could grow something, so we stuck with it.  Both Sam and my sons had to play their HS rugby up at Mother Lode.  We did not field a team during the covid year, but as Sam and my younger sons were getting older and we finally had a core group of kids who have been with us since the U-10 days.  We decided to field a HS team in 2022.  We wanted to start from the bottom up, and only field a JV squad.  That worked for a year, and in 2023, we competed in the NorCal Silver Division.  We made it to the final, but sadly lost in the final to the Sac Islanders program.  We knew we were on to something, and had a core group of players who have been playing since U-10's.  In 2024, we again made it to the final, but lost to the Chico program.  We were then moved up to the NorCal Gold division.  Our core group of players were Juniors and Sophomores, but we competed well.  2025 was the first year we went "on tour".  We took a team down to San Diego to take on Carlsbad Thunder, and we were able to win that game.  later in the season, we tied  the defending Tier II National Champion Wolverines.   2026 was our breakout year.  Due to good numbers, we decided to field a single school team, and in 2026, we re-formed the Rio Americano High School team.  We started strong, and made it to the NorCal final, but lost to St. Francis by a penalty kick as time expired.  The following week, St. Francis won the California State title by a wide margin.  The club season started, and we came out hot.  We ran the table in our league, and again went to San Diego to play the Mustangs.  We played them tight, and got to a 10 point deficit late in the game.  The mustangs are all class, and scored 2 quick tries to put the game out of reach.  Soon after, we were fortunate to have our bid to Nationals accepted, and the rest is history.

LLR- One thing we try to implement with players?

CC- This a tough question, because the level of play in NorCal is so high now.  In our younger age groups, we want the kids to have fun.  We don't place much of an emphasis on wins and losses in the U-10 & U-12 age groups.  We are all about fundamental rugby: passing, support play, FUN.  Our director of youth teams, Ben Strange does a fantastic job in balancing the fun, with the learning.  As the kids move up in age groups, we try to put a bit more emphasis on competition, but in reality, when dealing with kids transitioning from grade school to middle school, we want them to enjoy coming to practice and playing in games.  Even our JV HS team, we focus on learning our "system", and aren't to worried about wins and losses.  Once we get to the Varsity level, we believe we have earned the right to compete, and expect our players to have the same mindset.  Every time we step on the field, we want our players to believe that if they give maximum effort, the results will follow.  It still boils down to the fundamentals though.  If we cant pass, catch and tackle: we can't compete.  Just get better at the simple stuff, and you get better at the complicated stuff.

LLR- Where do I see this program in 5 years?

CC- Ideally, we continue to grow, and get better.  We have accomplished a ton in  a short amount of time (as a HS program), but I would like to see us grow and expand our reach.  In the transition from Middle School to HS, we lose at least half our our players to the Jesuit program (Jesuit HS is about 200 yards from our home field).  If we could retain some of those players, I think we could be a mainstay in the National conversation.

LLR- What age groups can join the youth rugby programs?

CC- We field U-10, U-12, Middle School, JV and Varsity High School.  We always have families asking about a 6 year old joining, but current NorCal policy has it that for tackle, you have to by 8 years old.  I'm sure if there is enough interest, we would field a U-8 flag side.

LLR- Do kids need prior experience to start playing rugby?

CC- NO!  All we ask is the kids come with a good attitude, and are willing to learn.  As I mentioned above, we emphasize fun and learning over wins and losses in the younger age groups.  In the HS teams, we have been getting football players with no prior experience.  They are always welcome, but the learning curve is a bit steeper.

LLR- Where do practices usually take place?

CC- We practice in Carmichael, which is a suburb of Sacramento.

LLR- What is the practice schedule during the season?

CC- Our youth teams practice 2x/week in the evening during the season.  Our HS teams practice 3-4x/week during the season.  We have a strength and conditioning coach, so we try to work in weight room sessions as part of our practice regimen.

LLR- How long is the youth season in Northern California?

CC- We start practice the week after Thanksgiving.  Games begin for our youth teams in January, and goes to early March.  I think most youth clubs still have a hard time competing with Little League.  Once Little League starts, our number drop significantly.

LLR- What age do players start contact rugby?

CC- In Northern California, contact rugby starts at the U-10 level.  U-10's have 10 players on a smaller field.  U-12's have 12 players on a smaller field, and MS rugby is full 15's on a full side field.  Scrums of 3 players are formed, but uncontested at the U-10 level.  Scrums of 5 , but still uncontested at the U-12 level, and full scrums, but uncontested for half the season at the MS level.  Once the MS players have a few games under their belt, they go to contested scrums.

LLR- What is the biggest highlights of the program thus far?

CC- In the last 2 years, it seems like there is a lot of highlights.  I would say going to San Diego, and coming away with a win vs. Thunder gave the boys a ton of confidence.  We then rolled right into getting a tie vs. Wolverines.  Winning the Gold division in NorCal this year was a huge feather in our cap, but there is nothing quite like competing at Nationals.  We came in as the 8 seed, and made it to the finals.  To say we are proud of the boys is the understatement of the century.

As far as the program as a whole:  I would have to say the solid reputation we have built in the community.  I can still remember the days we had 10 players on U-10's, and our Middle School team had to merge with Chico to field a team.  Our youth numbers are real strong right now.   We are a success story, 16 years in the making. 

LLR- How can parents volunteer to support the team?

CC- Admittedly, this is one aspect Sam and I have struggled with.  Ben Strange has developed a strong coaching cadre in the youth, and we have bolstered our ranks at the HS level by adding National Champion collegiate players Kellen Fisch and Miles Brown.  We are always in need of fundraising, game day operations: field set-up/tear-down, and post game meals.  We are a 501(c)(3) organization, so fundraising is always important.

LLR- Are there team events, fundraisers, community events scheduled?

CC- As the season just ended, we have nothing planned.  Ben has been fantastic in getting players out for flag rugby, and to games in the Sacramento Area.  Sacramento just hosted the Women's matches between USA and New Zealand, and Canada vs. Australia.  Sacramento also hosted a MLR game, were some of the younger Hawks participated in a halftime flag match.

  

We have participated in the American River Clean Up, which is run by the local Kiwanis Clubs.  We are always looking for fundraising opportunities.

LLR- How does the program promote teamwork, respect and sportsmanship?

CC- I think that the sport itself promotes teamwork, respect and sportsmanship.  I've been involved in rugby for nearly 40 years, and I've yet to see a successful team that doesn't have those qualities.  We are not the largest team physically, so we need to score team tries.  That requires teamwork.  If you don't respect your opponent, or give them a pat on the back and say good game after the match, we have failed.  It's easy to have these qualities when things are going your way, but sport is cruel, and inevitably, the tide will turn.  At those moments, it is crucial to remember how you treated your opponent when things were going good.  That is what makes our sport the best sport in the world.  You beat on one another for 70 minutes, the get in a circle an congratulate on another and break bread.

LLR- Are there opportunities for girls only teams or clinics?

CC- We field co-ed teams up until HS.   We don't have the numbers to field a girls only team, but we have a fantastic relationship with the Harlequins, which is a highly successful girls program in our area.  Our girls that have stuck with rugby, have found tremendous success with coach Wes Hilger at Harlequins.

LLR- Words of advice for those wanting to help out with their local club?

CC- Find a way to get involved.  Clubs, whether they know it or not, need help with some aspect of running a successful club.  We have coaches who have never played before, but they have value to our club.  Helping with post game meals  is huge.  Field set-up and tea-down is huge.  Any of the off field stuff a volunteer can help with, is something the coaching staff doesn't have to deal with, which means they can concentrate on coaching skills to the kids in the program.  Although rugby is growing, it is still something of a niche sport.  We could use all the help we can get.  If a coach or administrator doesn't have anything off hand to do, let them know you're available.  Something will come up.

* please give the Hawks a Follow on their social media accounts and check out there website for registration, news and other resources. 

carmichaelrugby.com/

Facebook: facebook.com/Carmichaelhawks

Instagram: instagram.com/carmichaelhawks/



Autism in Rugby Merch!

The Warrior Within

  It’s not uncommon to find multi-sport athletes among young rugby players in America. Many balance rugby with football, basketball, or other sports during the off-season. But what makes our latest Q&A participant truly stand out is her remarkable versatility: Cadence is not only a dedicated rugby player, but also a cheerleader and an active member of her high school’s NJROTC program.
 Talk about a unique rugger—Cadence exemplifies discipline, focus, and leadership across three demanding arenas. Her ability to juggle the physical intensity of rugby, the precision and spirit of cheerleading, and the structured commitment of NJROTC speaks volumes about her character and drive.
 A proud product of San Diego’s youth rugby scene, having played with both the SD Mustangs and Spartan Youth Rugby, Cadence is poised for great things. Her well-rounded experience and strong foundation make her a promising addition to any club she joins in the future.

LLR-What position do you play and when did you start playing rugby?

CC- I started playing co-ed rugby the winter of 2022. I have played full back, fly half, wing, inside and outside center. The center positions would have to be my favorite. 

LLR- There are many examples of cross over athletes who come to rugby, but a Cheerleader to rugby on top of also being a member of the NJROTC. Which order did they all start and what are people's reactions when you tell them?

CC- I started cheerleading when I was 5 years old. When I was 11 years old I started playing rugby. I just started NJROTC this year as a freshman in high school. Most people are pretty surprised when they hear I play rugby and also cheer. A lot of people think those two sports don’t usually go together but everyone has been extremely supportive.

LLR- What's something from cheerleading that transfers over to rugby and rugby to Cheerleading? 

CC- I would say two of the biggest things that transfer between rugby and cheer would have to be communication and trust. Both of these are crucial for keeping everyone safe and achieving the team’s goals. 

LLR- What's been a highlight thus far for you in playing rugby?

CC- I can’t think of just one specific moment but I have been so lucky to have had such incredible opportunities to work with some of the most amazing coaches. Coach Troy with San Diego Mustangs was my very first coach and made me fall in love with game. Coach Ailani with San Diego Mustangs helped build my confidence on the field and see that I was capable of more than I knew. Coach Charlie the head coach at USD, runs the skills program at Proteus. He has taught me so much and gives me great advice to perfect my technique. He helps keep me focused on what’s really important and to stay on track. Coach Chris with Spartans rugby encouraged me to try other positions and taught me how to lead other when he put me in a captains role. I will always be so thankful for these coaches.


LLR- Do you still plan to continue all three programs going into college ?

CC- I would love to continue all three programs going into college. So finding a school with all three would be ideal. 

LLR- Is there a college or two you hope to attend in the future?

CC- Ever since I was 6 years old I have wanted to go to the University of Kentucky. I even had a UK themed birthday one year. Another school I have been extremely interested in is the United States Military Academy West Point.

LLR- Who has been a role model for you ?

CC- Someone that I really look up to would definitely have to be Portia Woodman. Every time you see her off the field she always smiling, really positive, and super humble. Then she steps on the field and she is an absolute beast. 

LLR- Favorite movie?

CC- My favorite movie would have to be A Dogs Purpose. 

LLR- In-N-Out or Chick-fil-a?

CC- I would have to choose Chick-fil-a

LLR- If you had the opportunity to speak in front of a group of middle school girls what 3 pieces of advice would you give them in giving rugby a try?

CC- If I could give other girls some advice about trying rugby I would say don’t be intimidated. It doesn’t matter your size or skill level, there is a place for everyone. Also rugby is not like other sports it’s a family. Not only do you build a strong bond with your teammates but also with players from other teams. Rugby is the most fun you’ll ever have you just gotta jump right in.

LLR- Any last words or heads-up about personal highlights coming up you would like to share? 

CC- I am super excited to start my first year of high school rugby. 

When I was in 6th grade I was being bullied and really just looking for something new. I found out my dance teacher played rugby when she was young and I thought that was so cool. So I decided to give it a try and I’m so glad I did. Rugby has given me confidence and shown me that I’m a much stronger person than I thought I was.

*Cadence C. Currently plays for Spartan Youth Rugby  

Rugby, Autism, and the Power of Belonging

In the world of sports, few communities embody inclusivity and camaraderie quite like rugby. It’s a game built on respect, resilience, and unity—values that extend far beyond the pitch. Yet, what many may not realize is how profoundly impactful rugby can be for individuals with disabilities, especially those on the autism spectrum.

In a society where neurodivergent individuals often struggle to be seen and accepted as equals, rugby offers something rare: a place where everyone is truly welcome. Whether as players, coaches, referees, or team supporters, individuals with autism have found a meaningful home in the rugby community. It’s not just about playing a game—it’s about finding purpose, connection, and a sense of belonging.

For some time, I’ve wanted to highlight this powerful intersection between rugby and autism. My goal was to share a story that could offer hope—hope to those on the spectrum that there is a place for them in sport, and hope to families that their loved ones can thrive in environments built on acceptance and support.

That’s why I’m honored to share a Q&A with Zia Sadler, a remarkable individual on the autism spectrum who is actively involved in rugby. Her openness and insight are deeply inspiring. This conversation isn’t just about her journey—it’s about showing others that they, too, can find their place and flourish.

This project was especially meaningful to me because my 15-year-old daughter, who is preparing for her first season of tackle rugby, helped craft some of the questions. She was eager to learn from Zia’s experience and excited to see her responses. It was a beautiful moment of connection—one that reminded me why stories like Zia’s matter so much.

I also want to extend a sincere apology to Zia. Her responses were shared with me months ago, and due to my own delays, this post is long overdue. I’m grateful for her patience and understanding, and even more grateful for her willingness to be vulnerable and generous with her story.

Rugby has always been more than a sport—it’s a movement. And within that movement, there’s room for everyone. Let’s continue to celebrate and amplify the voices that remind us of that truth.

LLR-  When did you start playing rugby? 

ZS- I've been playing the sport since I was a baby, there are photos of me with a ball and we’re about the same size. One of the aspects I love about rugby is the camaraderie, safety, and respect given both on and off the field. 

 I will have a very different experience to someone who found out early in life they are autistic, I am a late/adult diagnosed autistic and this grew up masking to a detrimental/damaging degree.

LLR-What club are you currently affiliated with? 

ZS- I was affiliated with the Tacoma Sirens, and coached the University of Puget Sound Women Rugby club.

 My recent teams I’ve been open about being autistic and while there has been positive reactions, as I lacked understanding of my own sensory sensitivities (essentially lacking understanding of how autism presents in me) I couldn’t communicate what help I needed. As there was a struggle to communicate, I did earn some ire from them. 

LLR- What do you enjoy most about playing rugby?

ZS- I enjoy the act of playing rugby, as I find it soothing/therapeutic.

 I enjoy contact in rugby, learning to move in your own body in a stable and strong way. I think that helped me avoid having even more than I do. But my favorite form of rugby is touch, as I have played with 50 year old's and 10 year olds at the same time.

LLR- Who's your favorite rugby player? 

ZS- Sammy Sullivan, she’s open about her love for Legos.

LLR- What are you most proud of during your rugby journey? 

ZS- My tenacity/resilience, I learned to keep moving, get up after ever knock down. 

LLR- Have you ever been over stimulated while playing ?

ZS- Not particularly, though I am somewhat sensory seeking (at times seek new sensory stimuli, at times avoid it). Growing up playing it in England you’re always covered in mud by the end of any practice or match.

LLR- Has there ever been moments where during a game or practice you had a hard time processing what's happening and how did you get through it?

ZS- I benefited from always being around rugby and so learned the rules so I don’t remember during games. Practice, I would ask for clarification, or for it to be explained another way. I found that learning how to re-explain an idea to myself helped me understand it. And I can then ask the coach if my interpretation is similar enough.

LLR- Do you have any advice for others who have Autism and want to join rugby ? 

ZS- Understanding any sensory sensitivities and how to help alleviate or find moments to take a break when overstimulated. Examples being too much noise - noise canceling headphones, mud on the body being too much sensory - washing it off, if uncomfortable with swapping rugby kits - have an individual rugby kit that only you use. And advice I would give anyone is knowing your limits is just as important as knowing your resting point.

-Photos are of Zia -

*please visit new LLRugby merch store to pickup #AutismInRugby clothing with funds to be donated back to the community. ---->  LLRugby Autism In Rugby

Its an ELK mob!

Let me first start by saying this was supposed to be released weeks ago, many weeks ago and I deeply apologize.  I can go on and on as to why it took so long but I hope most of you understand that life just happened.  

With that said I am super stoaked about this next Q&A, not only is this a new rugby club forming but it also is serving a gap between the more higher count club community in and around Seattle and the vast portland metro area. I've personally traveled through this region  many times and still do every so often when going from Oregon to Washington to see family in Oak Harbor or to catch a Seawolves match. I love hearing about ruyby clubs starting in small communities because I truly believe if given a chance those programs can really bring that place together and create something special that many larger population location clubs lack or just can't quite grasp. Located in Centralia, WA in Lewis County. The Elks are gearing up to help further spread the great game of rugby and also just maybe, produce the next great Seawolve or Eagle. 

Thank you D.J for taking the time to answer these questions and being massively patient in me getting this posted. 

LLR- How did you get involved with rugby?

D.j- When I was younger my dad asked me if I wanted to watch a cool new sport. I said “yes” and turned on 7s tournament. Shortly after started playing at a young age. Now running a youth club!

LLR- When was the club founded? 

D.J- December 2024

LLR- What level of Rugby do the elks play?

D.J- We play at a D2 Highschool level. We are still very new and doing everything we can to encourage players to try a new sport. 

LLR- Where is the club located in Washington?

D.J- We are located in Centralia,WA but encourage anywhere in Lewis County to come try rugby. 

LLR- What's been the most challenging part thus far running a rugby club?

D.J- Getting the word out of rugby to the local schools and finding a pitch to call home I would say is the most difficult. 

LLR- Has there been anyone or group that's been supportive and resourceful in helping ?

D.J.- I have asked for mentorship from other clubs in my division and they have been more than helpful with information. As well as talking to my former coaches who have helped a lot. 

LLR- Where are practices held and where will home field be ? 

D.J- As of right now, Centralia Athletic director has been more then helpful on letting me use a practice field for the time being.

LLR- What is a 5 year goal, where would you like to see things at?

D.J- My goal at 5 years, would be to have youth to high school rugby flowing with the cities around the club to support to give the most opportunities to the youth. Also, to be able to take tours out of state to expand the visibility of rugby for our area and have the players make life long connections. 

LLR- How is recruitment going thus far?

D.J- When the club first started it was very rough but as I am responding to this, I have had a couple players reach out to their friends and we are slowing building up. 

LLR- How can players,supporters and sponsors get in touch?

D.J- We have a Facebook page Lewis County Elks or an email LewisCountyElks@gmail.com

LLR- Any advice for those who are considering wanting to get involved with rugby? 

D.J- For starting a club, do everything you can to get the word out and email and visit local businesses to get sponsorships. Other than that, remember why you are apart of rugby and how great the sport is on and off the field 

* I really look forward to seeing this club grow and on our next trip up to Washington, stopping by and saying hi.