Bright Future- Sydney the enforcer

 The 2033 women's rugby world cup is not that far and the current female athletes that are in high school and college will be the core of the USA lineup come that first kickoff. There is an explosion, albeit small right now, for women's and girls rugby in the USA. the emphasis on providing high quality matches and reporting on youth teams is seeing a rise for female players and their respected clubs. Sydney Copeland is one of those players who are taking advantage and thriving thanks to new programs being established and bridges being made between the various levels of rugby. She is a star on the rise and could very well be in the history books come 2033. A NorCal native Sydney has found her stride while attending and playing for Western Washington University, bringing pride to not just Bellingham but all the north west. With the PR7s and the much talked about potential investment into the WPL, players like Sydney and others could very well be better prepared for the future and  I hope you all enjoy learning about Sydney as much as I have.

LLR- Where abouts from the Bay Area are you from?

SC- I am from Martinez in the east bay area

LLR- When did you first start playing rugby and for what club?

SC- My senior year at Carondelet high school, they created a womens rugby team and I joined about halfway through the season in 2019.

LLR- You currently play for Western Washington university, how has your experience playing at the collegiate level been thus far?

SC- I have had a great experience with WWU, I have developed a lot of my core skills from being on this team and from the coaches that I have had. When I first came to western, my coach had taught me how to play scrumhalf and how to kick, and to see the progress I have made in those skills with where I am at on the team now is really cool. We also won our league last year and made it to regionals in California which was a great experience and a nice opportunity for our team to continue to progress to higher levels.

LLR- At such a young career you are experiencing some amazing opportunities, PNW selects, Pacific coast grizzlies. What are some key points that you feel those programs have helped you improve your overall playing experience?

SC- For both of these teams, being able to come together, having never played together as a team or even with most of the people there, and understand everyone's skills and the team dynamic is a great learning experience. Just being able to adapt to a new dynamic and figure out how to let everyone's skills shine and flow smoothly together is a great feeling and growth opportunity, and we got to see it work in Iowa with the PacCoast grizzlies with us winning tier 1.

     Also, just being able to play rugby at a higher level than our current collegiate level, with some of the best players in our region has been a huge factor in helping me improve as a player and teammate.

 Even with the PNW selects and our recent loss against UBC, it was a great learning experience. I feel like a game like that can help put into perspective what our weaknesses were as a team and individually, and how we can improve on those. If we are out here winning every single game we wouldn't get the opportunity to see those little things they were able to capitalize on and be able to grow from it.

LLR- Another amazing thing to point out is your time down in chula vista, can you explain what the reasoning was for the training and the impact it has had on you as a whole? 

SC- This year in 2023 I just started getting into 7s. My first camp at chula vista in June was a huge learning experience for me as a player and for my game in 7s especially. The first camp I attended was more of a learning-based camp to understand the strategies and skills for 7s and how to read the players and the field when on offense and defense. The next two camps in August and October were more performance based camps where we were able to take what we have learned and put it into practice with the scrimmages we did at the end. Overall, I have learned so so much just from these camps, especially being able to train and play with extremely talented athletes from all over the nation. I feel like I have grown with rugby and within my values, seeing how skilled and dedicated everyone is, is extremely motivating and pushes me to continue to work hard to be able to compete at this high of a level.

LLR- Focusing on WWU and the 2023/2024 season how has the team performed thus far reaching the halfway point.

SC- WWU has performed so well! We are currently 2-0 so far this season with big wins against U of O and UW. (our first game against OSU got rescheduled). We are looking forward to continuing to dominate in our league and hopefully we will be able to to compete at regionals again this Spring.

LLR- In your own opinion is there enough being done to get potentially young female players to pick up the ball?

SC- I have seen a lot of growth with girls and womens rugby but I always believe we can be doing more to spread the love of the game, especially to the next generation. Girls rugby is doing an amazing job of growing the name of rugby and empowering young girls all across the nation. I would love to see more funds and spotlight on them and their program.

LLR- Where would you like to see the women's game go here in North America come 2033 ?

SC- I would love to see womens rugby just as big as mens rugby in North America and the United S⁸tates specifically. I would also hope that by 2033, womens professional rugby players are getting paid enough to where they do not need another job.

LLR- Speaking of the USA Women's Rugby World Cup , is there any specific location you personally would like to see at least one round played at in 2033?

SC- I would love to see them play in San Francisco or at least somewhere in the bay area.

LLR- After WWU what's the next step in your rugby and personal journey ?

SC- After I graduate WWU I will have a bachelors in kinesiology exercise science, and will find a job in that field. With rugby, I am wanting to pursue it as far as I can and hopefully even playing professionally one day, thats the dream.

LLR- If you had an opportunity to go back to your middle school and high school, what would you say to those young girls in encouraging them to take up rugby and , for the older ones, going to WWU?

SC- I would tell them that they are capable of amazing things and to always, no matter what, through the ups and downs of life, always continue to believe in yourself. You are strong, powerful, and dangerous.

LLR- Final words of encouragement to those who are reading this?

SC- Keep putting in the work. Even if its not fruitful today or tomorrow, the hard work will pay off. Set your standards high and prove to yourself what you are capable of.

*If you would like to fallow Sydney on her journey along with the Western Washington Woman's rugby club and the PNW Womens Selects please give each profile below a fallow below!

Sydney- @sydneycopeland

WWU club team instagram- @wwuwomensrugby

PNW u23 regional instagram- @pnwws_rugby

ORL fundraiser

 

 ORL is looking to secure finances for its upcoming match. Any and all size donations are completely welcomed . There is also now also benefit tears for those who donate more. 

thank you.

Battle in the Capitol

 

click on link for more information ---> https://www.pacificcoastrl.com/news/oregon-inaugural-game

Can you hear the Ringing of the Victory bell..

When I was younger and in high school, Valley Christian, in San Jose, CA. We had only one rival, maybe some heated athletic battles with certain schools but there was only one school you went all out against regardless of how your season was going. Although Valley Christian sees its self as a Football school there was plenty of pride amongst its club sporting teams when we played Bellarmine College Preparatory.

Fast forward a decade and a few years the thanks to neglect from their own high school the Exiles RFC are no more and the Bellarmine rugby club still stands. During this time, and honestly before hand, the Bells have continued to march on and have become a historical pillar of high school rugby in the San Francisco Bay Area. Current player for the Bells , Mateo Scipioni is having an absolute great time playing and representing Bellarmine home or away and continuing to push his own rugby skills and career was gracious enough to take a few minutes to answer some questions to help more people become aware of Bellarmine Rugby and himself also. Trully hope you all enjoy and take the chance to reach out to the club and Mateo.

LLR- In a school mostly known for its football program and other more traditional sports, how did you come to play rugby?

MS- I’ve been playing rugby since the 6^th grade so I came to Bellarmine knowing I would play rugby. Although I played freshman football it wasn’t for me. I enjoyed the creativity and physicality that came with rugby.

LLR- What's been your experience playing at Bellarmine collage Preparatory?

MS- It’s been a good experience. The coaching staff is great with lots of experience in rugby. The players all come together and put in their full effort. Although we don’t win many games and we aren’t a very size gifted team we enjoy the games full of physicality.

LLR- How's the relationship between the rugby club and the other sports on campus between the players and coaches?

MS- As a club sport we don’t get the funding and attention that the traditional sports get, but we manage with minimal costs. We get a few athletes from football, wrestling, and other sports on the rugby squad, which gives us some diversity when it comes to the athletes on our team. The coaches are all volunteer coaches taking time out of their busy lives to train us.

LLR- Is there a tradition in the club that we should all know about , anything unique?

MS- We have a tradition of traveling either out of state or across the state every year to play teams that are not in our league to test our abilities against teams we wouldn’t usually play against. This is a great way to not only better our skills but also strengthen our bond as a team.

LLR- Last year the team traveled up to Seattle (tukwila) and played a curtain raiser to the Seawolves match, how was that experience for you and all involved ?

MS- It was a great experience having the opportunity to travel out of state and play the curtain raiser for the Seawolves. It was a great match in the rain, but I did not participate in the varsity match because I was out with concussion from the game the night prior. It was a well fought match and certainly a learning experience for us as a team.

LLR- When was the club founded?

MS- The club started in 1980 but it became College Park Rugby for a few years before becoming Bellarmine Rugby Club again in 2007.

LLR- In traditional sports at the school there's some many great long history rivalries with the other WCAL schools, who's the biggest rival for Bell Rugby?

MS-We don’t really have any rivalries with any schools or clubs. The schedule changes slightly every season so there aren’t really any rivalries that we have.

LLR- Saint Francis just completed their first season, is it in the best interest for Rugby and West Catholic (WCAL) schools to field rugby teams ?

MS- I feel that it would be beneficial for more schools in the area to field rugby programs. It would allow for more local competition instead of having to travel long distances, which is an issue for most rugby teams having to travel hours for a single match. It would bring together the schools in WCAL and facilitate potential rivalries which would be good for the rugby community in our area as a whole.

LLR-What days and times are practices and games?

MS- Games are on Saturdays and practices are Tuesdays and Thursdays.

LLR- What are your plans for after high school, are there academies or specific colleges you are looking at?

MS- Right now, I’m looking at universities like Colorado State, Montana State, and Oregon State. I would like to play rugby at either of these and study environmental sciences.

LLR- Best way to get a hold of you and the team and also follow all your journey's?

MS- The best way to get a hold of me or anyone on the team would be through Twitter, Instagram, or Email. You can follow @bcprugby on Instagram or @BellarmineRFC on twitter.

The King of Brooklyn is ready for battle

Ever wonder what a Rugby League player in america is really thinking about , how they go about practice, player recruitment and competition thoughts. Juggling work, higher education and personal life can be difficult already, but to toss being a player in a very niche sport and helping to grow, it can be a very tall mountain to climb. It's absolutely refreshing to see and hear some positive attitude from someone within a competition and the belief that with everything happening in a ever moving landscape that this is all for a positive step forward for League in America. The Kings begin the season soon and a chance to lay claim for Kings rugby to be the best, thanks so much to Shaniyat from the Kings who took the time to answer some questions. Hope you all enjoy and besure to fallow his journey this season.

LLR- What is your playing experience with Rugby, how did you come to the Kings?

SC- I’ve played league for 9 years now, rotating around as back. I’ve played union for 6 years. The Kings are the only domestic club I’ve played for since it was founded in 2014. A childhood friend played for the Rhode Island Rebellion a couple of years or so before that. So when he moved back to New York, he told me about this new club in Brooklyn. I had 0 rugby experience at the time. I was familiar with the game from movies like “Invictus” and “Forever Strong”. After watching match highlights of Billy Slater, I knew I had to give it a try. I played sports like football, soccer, basketball, and hockey growing up. So I was confident I could learn to play with my athletic abilities.

LLR- Internationally there's an idea of what training is needed to prepare for a match, what's training look like for your self and the team weekly?

SC- I’ve always believed in the results of your training will show when you play a match. Considering we are a domestic semi professional club, and a growing one at that, players and coaches trust each member to prepare themselves months in preparation in between the end of the previous season and heading into offseason training for the upcoming, I’d say about 6-7 months. So that gives everyone plenty of time to rest, recover, train both physically and mentally. League is a summer season in the eastern part of the states, so most players will play union in the Fall and into the Spring. Personally, I love the game so damn much, so my training and preparation has evolved in so many ways over the years. I train everyday and I’ll rotate between fitness in the gym and the field and doing a lot more mobility training to to get of nagging injuries from the year’s past. I work with a physio once a week to ensure I’m making progress. I work full time and go to graduate school in the Fall and Spring. So I’ll play union for the Brooklyn club of time allots me the chance to make sure I’m keeping up my fitness standards of play.

LLR- Are there any specific goals for yourself this season you wish to accomplish?

SC- I’m feeling really good overall so I’m just really exited to play a full season of league. It’s been 3 years since the pandemic and the game is continuing to develop so I’m excited at the prospect of playing with the boys this season and most importantly win. I’m confident with the team we have and there nothing more exciting than playing and winning finals footy. Of course, there’s always the thought of wanting to represent the national team to represent the US but I’m taking it one day at a time.

LLR- What's the overall sentiment from the team going into the RLU competition?

SC- Everyone is eager to play. We have experienced coaches which is always a plus and it’s put us in a fortunate position to have depth. We’re the only league club in NY. The Kings are energized with a mix of new players and a lot of veterans from the game. We’re looking forward to playing with one another and even against the other clubs. We’re a band of brothers with the clubs in the comp so being able to share the experience of the inaugural RLU season will be special.

LLR- What steps are being made from yourself and the team to help ensure the health of Rugby League continues to grow in your area ?

SC- Heading into the season though, RLU really is empowering players to have more of a voice to share ideas on developing the game which has been much needed. We’re feeling optimistic about the future of the game and all the opportunities that can come along to having a strong rugby league competition. League has been stuck in a rut the last few years in the US. We’re all observing the changes and moving appropriately in the landscape because we all want to grow the game at the end of the day. RLU provides that capacity for growing the game moving forward. I’ve been listening to more rugby podcasts such as Chasing Kangaroos and Rugby League in America, reading about the game, and staying up to date on rugby related news because I do hope to transition into a more development role one day. I am a firm believer in the potential in the game and I hope to be blessed to be in a position where I can make meaningful impact. Right now, I focus on the social media for the club and seeking funding opportunities to take the burden of costs for players.

LLR- Where will practices and games be located?

SC- We are welcoming anyone and everyone to come practice with us at Pier 3 field at the Brooklyn Bridge Park in Brooklyn, NY every Thursday nights at 6pm. Our matches will be played at Bush Terminal Piers Park.

LLR- NRL or Super League and what team do you fallow closely?

SC- I really enjoying watching the NRL. I’m a Warriors fan but I did go to to Brisbane to watch the Broncos play Parramatta for my first and only NRL match I’m 2019 and the energy was exhilarating. But also, up the Blues! I do watch match highlights of Castleford Tigers and Hull KR for Super League here and there but I do want to watch more of the games there.

LLR- What's the best way to fallow your journey and the clubs during this season and beyond?

SC- You can find me on

Instagram: @_shaniyat

Twitter: @shaniyatny

The Kings

Instagram:@Kingsrugbyleague

Twitter :@BrooklynkingsRL

Twitter is probably the best though for all the rugby league updates.

SNEAKY FOXES

Much is talked about rugby league in America being centered around the south east corner.  With efforts being made out in the west coast with PCRL and its clubs its , the North Eastern is also to be given its spot light and attention. Delaware Black Foxes where founded in 2015 and have stayed steadfast in competing yearly regardless of competition. This year we will also see the beginning of the Rugby League United  competition, which the Black Foxes are a founding member of. I personally have been a fan of theirs from afar and am excited for the Foxes to take the pitch again. 

I deeply appreciate Ian from the Black Foxes taking time to answer some questions and I hope you all can enjoy. 

LLR- It's been some time since the Black Foxes were fairly active with a competition. What has the club done to stay active with players and keep the group intact?

I- We've always kept communication lines open with the players and tried to organize at least one team event each season. During times when we haven't been able to play consistently we still have had training sessions. We also got together to play touch just to keep our basic skills sharp and played at least one proper rugby league match every summer.

LLR- With as much chaos as it seems to be with the code of League in America, hopefully for the betterment of the health of the game here, what are the Black Foxes doing to help keep the team alive for next year and the years to come, are there youth groups being formed or active potential player communication happening ?

I- Every year we reach out and recruit from various rugby union clubs with the goal of getting more players to give rugby league a try. The past few years we've also built a good rapport with several university coaches in the surrounding areas. This helps replenish and rejuvenate the club with new players each season. We don't currently have a youth team specific to the Black Foxes, however, there are several players on this team that help coach youth and rookie rugby at various schools in our communities.

LLR- The women's side of the game is beginning to grow and some clubs throughout the USA are actively trying to also have a women's side compete with the men's. Is this something you all are looking into as well at this time?

I- Yes. We have been working on putting together a women's side called the Delaware Vixens. We're still in the early planning and recruiting stages of this process but the goal is to get the Vixens on the field competing possibly in 2024.

LLR- Where will home games be played?

I- Eden Park in Wilmington, DE.

LLR- Rugby League United is a brand new competition for yourselves and the fellow North Eastern clubs are set to begin play this year. Why now and not next year and has there been communication to others about joining down the road?

I- Honestly now just seemed to be as good of a start time as any. Delaware has done alright the past couple seasons but other teams in Northeast really struggled to bounce back after Covid and a few other factors. Now that some time has passed and these teams have had some time to recover, we all agreed that this was the right time to get back on the pitch and compete officially. We're trying to keep things relatively simple this first year by having only 4 teams in RLU but we won't rule out adding new teams and expanding the competition next year and beyond.

LLR- What is the current status with the relationship between the RLU and it's clubs with USARL competition and as a governing body?

I- Right now we're mainly concentrating on what's going on between Delaware, Brooklyn, Boston, and DC however we're always up for a chat and keeping communication lines open between our clubs and the USARL.

LLR- Has there been any communication between yourself and the other groups in America like The Championship (CRL) and Pacific Coast (PCRL) ?

I- Not officially but we'd be open to discussions with them and other groups/organizations in the future.

LLR- Final question, how can fans follow the Delaware Black Foxes and their journey and also the Rugby League United competition?

I- We have a website (Black Foxes Rugby) and we're on social media as well:

Facebook: The Delaware Black Foxes

Instagram: @blackfoxesrugbyleague

Twitter: @DEBlackFoxesRL

Help grow Girls Rugby

The Birth of Women's Rugby Champions

Ever wonder what it takes to be a commissioner of a collegiate sport confrence, let alone a rugby commissioner. Tiffany Lopez from West Coast Rugby Conference was very gracious to take time out of her very busy and exciting schedule to answer a few questions that I think will put you all at aw and excited when learning about Tiffany and how she's breaking down doors and positioning the WCRC as thee collegiate rugby Conference to play in and dominate the western side of the United States. It is not just one team or two but many who Tiffany has taken the time to work with to elevate not just competition side of the various clubs but also the professionalism of each member. 2033 World Cup will be a every lasting effect for women's rugby here in America for all levels, but the WCRC has already begun to lay the ground work and build the infrastructure for young girls and current college players will be ready to dawn their country's colors and show the world that The Game has arrived and we've been waiting.

LLR- When did you assume the roll as league commissioner?

TL- I was voted into the role at the beginning of the 2019 season, just a few months after I graduated from San Jose State University.

LLR- What level of collegiate rugby does the conference play at?

TL- The conference is a D2 women’s collegiate league.

LLR- What was the hardest transition when leaving a club team and into an administrative roll that now over sees multiple clubs?

TL- I didn’t really have any difficulty transitioning into the position. My professional background was actually in professional sports already and this transition was actually really smooth. The previous board was doing everything right by the book. My promises coming in was to continue facilitating a competitive conference and following protocol with the addition of some progressive rugby ideologies: to promote rugby in the United States, we need to start marketing it. Rugby is more than just showing up on a Saturday with some lines and uprights. It’s about getting fans out, support, funding, and highlighting players for higher level rugby. That’s how we grow women’s rugby.

LLR- What's been a highlight ?

TL- Last season my playoffs was an event that was talked about around the United States. We had a rugby clubs from high school to club D2 to WPL teams out there supporting the event, awarding players of the final match, and recruiting. We had HS students coming up to coaches saying “I want to join your team. I’ll see you next season”. That’s what it was all about. In addition we had event partners like Topo Chico giving out free waters and new flavors, vendors, food, and 500+ fans come out for what was a small championship. We invited vendors like the Modish Rugger & Callipygian who are small businesses owned by conference alumni and allowed our visiting teams to use the event as a fundraiser. It really was something special. This year’s event will likely be the same!

LLR- What's been the hardest moment thus far in your administrative time?

TL- We've had a lot of changes in our competition management systems and registration with USA Rugby. With every season typically having a new President every year, there is no continuity in training. It’s like starting over every year and then having to learn the new system and be expert enough to walk them through registration.

LLR- Where would you like to take the conference, what's the next step?

TL- I would like to expand the conference. Could I take on adding D1 to the conference? I think so. I would love to oversee a bigger picture program that leads into more higher pathway opportunities. So far last season we’ve had many players get selected for teams like the U23 National Team, the U23 Grizzlies and now selections on high performance squads like: Rhinos Rugby & The Grizzlies 7’s. I want to see more of that. I have been connecting with teams from All Around the US, coaches, conferences, organizations and more. It’s that network that’s important for our growth as a conference.

LLR- With a Premier Rugby 7s team essentially calling San Jose home and the conference having a footprint in the same area , is there benefits for both the PR7s and WCRC to have from each other?

TL- I believe it’s too new to see any direct benefits. But I think it has potential to build a strong network. Some of our players have already tried out for the player pool and we have had a player that made it. But with the way the draft works, it doesn’t guarantee that if she was selected it would be for the San Jose team. As one of the franchise managers for PR7’s, I see the growth and the development behind closed doors. I really do think the direction it’s going will have a major positive impact on our conference goals in the future.

LLR- If there is a women's program that is looking to join a conference or wanting to move up a level, what criteria is needed to do so to join the WCRC?

TL - Per our bylaws, they would need to contact me directly and join us at our AGM to be voted into but would have a probationary year. We would get them friendly matches with our teams and then would need to vote them in after their first trial year.

LLR- Last two questions, there's been rumors and hints that between now and the USA Women's Rugby World cup in 2033 that we could see a MLR women's version or something similar being established. Have you had any discussions with interested parties in helping provide players for and pathways to fill rosters and what's your opinion on such plans?

TL- I haven’t heard much about it. My focus has been supporting PR 7’s, World Rugby and will have some exciting rugby career updates soon. Right now the sport is growing exponentially in so many directions.

LLR- What would you say to that middle school or high school female student who doesn't know if she should play rugby, what words of encouragement do you offer to college players who maybe coming out for the first time?

TL- Give it a chance! You may just find lifelong friends, a passion for something new, a community that is growing and a professional career. I came into college rugby my 3rd year of college not knowing anything about the sport. And now I am running the largest women’s college conference, work with international teams, got to work at the World Cup, traveling the United States, am a paid professional team manager and soon will be traveling internationally. 6 years ago, I had no idea that my first rugby practice would have lead to this now being my career and passion… all because I gave it a chance.

Instagram - @wcrc_wc

Tiffany Lopez

Commissioner West Coast Rugby Conference

(510)-468-8949

www.ironparadiseontour.com

tiffany@ironparadiserecovery.com

Rebirth of Sparta

Men's Spartan Rugby Club at San Jose State has a very rich history that any program would be excited to have. However playing rugby in the San Francisco Bay Area unfortunately has its down sides. With Saint Mary's and Cal , and Stanford for that matter, many people tend to not realize there are plenty more college rugby being played although not at the consistency winning as the programs mentioned before each has a rich tradition and each has at times added wood to the fire as to why the Bay Area is a hot bed for Rugby in this country. San Jose State over the past several years has unfortunately slowly fallen down the ladder and become inconsistent in league play. Not for lack of trying by each of the coaches and staff but the culture and communication has broken down. 

Thankfully out of the ashes a rebirth is happening. With the rallying of alumni there's change happening to position the Spartan Men's amongst the best in the San Francisco Bay Area and out west. To be part of the conversation when speaking about St.Marys , Cal rugby . First step was hiring a homerun of a hire for a new head coach. Next was rebuilding communication & community among its alumni base and re-engage the players. I would like to thank the Chairman of the alumni association Lance for answering questions about the program and its future. A Rebirth of Sparta is happening,  take note and beware. 

LLR- Can you share a bit about your connection with the Spartan Rugby Club, when did you play and what position?

LC- I played from 1991-1995 for SJSU. I started playing my High school position of open side flanker #7 but when I got to college, I was undersized for that position. I was always a bit faster than I looked and had a good boot so I made the adjustment to flyhalf #10 and played at that position through my career at SJSU and beyond.

LLR- Most college rugby teams have some sort of alumni association, what makes this alumni association different from years past?

LC- SJSU never really had an organized Alumni Association. It was always seen as a social rugby club with a few bright spots of success on the pitch here and there. Mike Annab established the Alumni Association by vetting and selecting board members from various generations of SJSU Rugby that had a passion for the club, its history and the awareness of its impact on student athletes and the broader rugby community. We are just over a year into the establishment of the Alumni Association and we have made some positive moves to improve the club. We have hired a new coach, fundraiser for new kit, held a successful Spartan Rugby tailgate at the Homecoming game, began to develop sponsorships and partnerships with area companies to sponsor the club, rebranded our social media presence and committed to keep alumni updated with schedules, scores, events and highlights.

LLR- What is the relationship currently between the current players and those who have graduated and part of the alumni group now?

LC- This is an area of opportunity for us to connect these two groups. Formally, it occurs at the alumni match in spring each year but we are working on having more events throughout the year to foster tighter connections. We feel this is incredibly important for a number of reasons; to connect college players with men’s club teams like the San Jose Seahawks, connect current players with established professionals in their field of study who may be able to provide job opportunities and to share the love of the sport across generations. Rugby is a welcoming community and it’s important to crest the opportunities for those connections to occur.

LLR- As an association what's being done to help the growth of the team?

LC- We hired a new coach this season, Nick Schlobohm, who came via a close friend and former coach of mine at the Olde Gaels RFC, John Compaglia. When I told John we were looking for a coach to transform our team from a social club to a high performance competitive side, John simply said “I have your guy”. Nick was an Assistant Coach for the Olde Gaels at the time but had aspirations to lead his own club and the timing could not have been better. Nick is a two time Collegiate National Champion with St. Mary’s with a deep love of the sport and a high rugby IQ. We chatted a number of times, conferred with the Board and hired him. Coach Nick’s impact has already been felt with solid wins over Stanford and Cal Maritime this season. The team is looking good and the future looks bright.

We have also committed to providing more content for the alumni to raise the level of engagement and interest in their former team. So far, we have seen a nice uptick in our comments and feedback about the content and information we are providing online. It’s been very positive.

I arranged for a sports photographer to take team photos which is a hallmark of any organized team. This is a seemingly small act but means a great deal to the players, their family, and friends communicates history and tradition as this will be a standard from now on.

Through my company, I donated funds to purchase the Rugby jerseys for the season. The club was in transition, their finances were a mess which left them with no funds to replace their older incomplete set of jerseys. As an Architect and designer myself, I designed the jerseys for the team and presented them to them before their first match earlier this year. It was a humbling moment to be able to give back to the club that means so much to me.

The Board is working hard to connect the active players and coaches with ClubSports to secure funding moving forward. During the coaching transition, this was not addressed and left the club on the brink of collapse. It’s been great to work with Coach Nick on this and we are looking forward to more support from the school in the years to come.

LLR- What are some goals for this year and next season, and where would you like to see things with the alumni and club team in 5 years time?

LC- As an alumni association, We have some big goals but now we have a hill to climb to establish some of the basics including solid organization, reconnecting alumni with the current team, developing our Spartan Rugby Community, fundraising, putting on more events and supporting the coaching staff. If we do those things well, what happens on the pitch will take care of itself. Beyond that, we want to be a part of creating an experience for the players during their time at SJSU that they will never forget and hope they return as alumni and stay connected and to give back to the club in some way. 

LLR- What's been the most rewarding part and difficult?

LC- The most rewarding part is seeing the team on the pitch doing what they love and enjoying themselves. Talking to the players after the match and getting to know them as people, hearing their stories and supporting them in whatever way we can. The most difficult thing has been locating, connecting and engaging with the alumni. SJSU Rugby has been around for over 50 years now but it has been surprisingly challenging to find those players and develop a platform of connectivity. Depending on their generation, we have found that they use a wide variety of communications, so we end up communicating across several platforms to reach as many alum as we can. It’s been a good pace of growth but there are many more out there that we still need to connect with. We are excited about that challenge.

LLR-To the players what message would you like to tell them and also to the alumni who may not be aware of the change at hand, what would you like to pass on to them ?

LC- To the players, we want you to know that the alumni board is committed to supporting the club to help you succeed on the pitch. For the first time in the club’s history, you have an organized group of committed alumni focussed on the team’s success short term and long term.

To the alumni, change is here. For the first time in club history, the team is led by two coaches who each have won Rugby National Champions twice! Coach Nick and Assistant Coach Hadin are transforming the team into a competitive team with their sites on a league title and more. So, engage with us on social media, keep up to date on the team and attend the events to reconnect with your team and meet up with friends new and old. You will love it.

LLR- Are there any special events coming up or key dates we should all keep an eye out for?

LC- Yes. March 18 is the last home match of the season. Kickoff is at 12:30pm vs Nevada. It should be a great one.

April 28 is the alumni Golf Tournament. Please contact me if you are interested in playing. You can email me at llcrannell@yahoo.com

April 29 is the alumni Match. All are welcome to watch. There will be a BBQ and an opportunity to meet the players and buy some team gear. Bring a friend.

We are active on Facebook and Instagram. Look up Spartan Rugby or SJSU Rugby Alumni and you will find us. You can always text 925-550-6800 for any updates, information or questions you may have.

We are also continually fundraising and we have found that Venmo is the quickest and easiest way to show your support. You can venmo any amount you can spare to

@Spartan_Rugby_Alumni

Your donations will go a long way toward helping the club.

www.spartanrugbyalumni.org

#UnitythroughRugby #RuntotheFight 

Unity through Rugby

Change is coming, slowly but it is coming. over the last few years the health of rugby League in the USA has been on a decline and then for the most part a sudden blow up. currently there is still only 1 Governing body but now four competitions. Two out west and two out east, its hard to know exactly what is happening and who has the right formula to move the game forward. Over the course of time my plan is to speak with all parties involved to help shed light on where the code of League is going in America. Thus far the Pacific Coast Rugby League has been the only party willing to answer, others have been reached out to such as the USARL , Championship Rugby League and Rugby League United. Championship has responded but still waiting for answers from that organization and when they come in they will be posted soon as possible. I appreciate Ady from PCRL for responding to some questions I hope helps everyone learn a little bit more on they're development and how they are helping to grow the game and improve the National teams, all while unifing players from all backgrounds through Rugby regardless of union or league. 

LLR- How has 2023 gone so far for development of the teams involved?  

A- We have made great progress over the past 12 months. Our original plan was to play a one off game between Los Angeles Mongrel and San Diego Barracudas, however, we had other teams reach out to us with interest of joining our league. We currently have 4 teams with the Los Angeles Bandidos and Santa Rosa Dead Pelicans joining the fold. We expect to announce additional teams in the coming weeks.

LLR- Do any of the teams involved have their own website or social media accounts? 

A- Yes, see below:

LA Mongrel Insta @la_mongrel

  Twitter @la_mongrel

  FB /lamongrel

  Web www.lamongrel.com

SD Barracudas Insta @sd_barracudas

  Twitter @SD_Barracudas

  FB /SDbarracudas

  Web www.sdbarracudas.com

LA Bandidos Insta @bandidos_rl

  Twitter @lBandidosRL

  FB (Search Bandidos Rugby League)

  Web www.bandidosrugbyleague.com

Dead Pelicans Insta @deadrugby

  Twitter @DeadRugby

  FB /DeadPelicanRugby

  Web www.lamongrel.com

PCRL Insta @pacificcoastrl

  Twitter @pacificcoastrl

  FB /pacificcoastrl

  Web www.pacificcoastrl.com

LLR- How can potential players in the various teams markets get in touch if they would like to play ?  

A- There is a signup form on the Pacific Coast Rugby League website https://www.pacificcoastrl.com/contact

LLR- Is there any financial assistance for the teams who have to travel outside their home towns to matches, and if so in what form?  

A- Our model is based around teams being self-sufficient, we provide support to teams in numerous different ways including assistance with sponsorship, formulation of teams including but not limited to creation of their constitution, bylaws, code of conduct, 501(c)(3) applications etc. We have been very clear that the league is self-funded and that teams cannot be reliant on the league to cover the individual team expenses. We have seen that when sponsorship is pulled at league level it has an immediate impact to clubs. We encourage all teams to work with their local business partners to help grow locally and organically.  

In addition we recognize the travel implications for all teams so will be looking to host multiple games at one venue to limit the expense and travel commitments.

If the league secures a long term significant sponsor, then we will review this policy accordingly.

LLR- Where can fans find rosters for each of the teams?  

A- Rosters will be posted by individual clubs through a combination of their websites and social media channels. All players will also need to register with USARL under our league rules.

LLR- On the union side of things players have to register with the Governing Body, are players with the PCRL having to do something similar with yourselves or USARL?  

A- Players are required to register directly with USARL, currently we do not charge players or teams to participate in our competition.  

LLR- Can you provide insight as to what is happening with the national governing body, are players from the PCRL eligible for the men's and women's National sides?  

A- PCRL was sanctioned as an official competition under the NGB and all players who play in our competion who must register with USARL are eligible for selection as long as they meet the criteria for the national team, (and are good enough) the fee is nominal in comparison to the fees paid to USA Rugby Union. The IRL is working with USARL on governance and a new board is due to be voted in for 2024. Teams registered as full members with USARL will hold voting rights and be eligible to sit for positions on the board.

LLR- How has the Pacific Coast Rugby League been received here in America and internationally?  

A- We have had some great feedback from the rugby league community as a whole, our decision to be transparent certainly helps given the complexities and politics in Rugby League in America. We continue to offer our monthly town hall and hold bi-weekly meetings between member teams. We continue to promote the sport across all social media channels and have support throughout Europe and Australasia as well as here in America

LLR- How is the relationship between the League clubs and local union teams, do you think it's a recipe that can be replicated for other markets in the USA?  

A- We have had great success working with local Union teams, this was highlighted in what we believe was a first here in America where both league and union games were combined in a single day event. You may recall we worked with San Diego Legion to host two union games for their development and youth teams against Belmont Shore, sandwiched in between a women’s introduction to rugby league clinic and the league game between Mongrel and Barracudas. Furthermore LA Mongrel have close links to Eagle Rock Rugby Union and the Bandidos close ties to Belmont Shore. The Dead Pelicans go one step further and play both codes under the one name.

LLR- What more can fans expect going forward this year? 

A- We have a number of ongoing projects including a men’s game between the Bandidos and Dead Pelican and a dedicated SOCAL v NORCAL women’s game which will be the lead into our season which is slated to run June through August with all of our games being recorded and then posted to YouTube. Further events will be announced in due course, but per our policy, will not release details until everything is in place.

LLR- Are there discussions for plans on next year, can you share a bit what those might be?  

A- We hope to build on 2023 and continue with our expansion plans. It is important to build clusters of teams throughout the western region to limit travel and accommodation expenses for teams, we will bring them together for dedicated events as well as end of season playoffs. All interested teams should register at: https://www.pacificcoastrl.com/contact

LLR- Last one, if there players from Rugby Union who maybe on the fence or have been told not to play League. What would you like to say to them on why they should at least give it a try, and same for those from other sports.  

A- We are firm advocates that players should play both codes, our season structure will compliment the Union season and we do not want to clash with their schedule. We believe there are benefits for all players learning a new style of rugby and maintaining fitness and keeping skills sharp instead of taking long breaks between seasons. Many of the lessons learned in rugby league translate over to Union and vice versa, you see many former professional and international level league players coaching at the highest levels of the Union game. Similarly, we are keen to see crossover athletes try our sport, many have the dream of say making the NFL after college and completely stop all sports, we know once they try playing rugby league that they will be hooked. We do not want to limit this to football players and welcome athletes from any background to try rugby league.

I hope this has been helpful in some form and I implore anyone interested in playing to reach out to any of the current club teams and the PCRL as well. 

#RugbyforALL

#RugbyLeague

Girls Rugby

This past year two of my daughters completed their first season of playing flag rugby. They absolutely loved it and keep asking when does the next season start (there is two, fall and spring but my family can only do spring ) . It's an amazing tool to help teach the very basic skills of the sport and help young kids build confidence, friendships and memories without the stress of competition. PLEASE reach out and sign up. If your area doesn't have a team inquire how one can get started. 

Oregon Rugby League

All are welcomed all Oregonians are encouraged to join and help us grow the game. #RugbyforAll 

Beware the Renegades

When you talk about rugby in the state of Washington you most likely focus on Seattle and the area around Seattle. You will have to start changing that as to the west across the water is the Kitsap Renegades, and they are preparing to cause some chaos. Tracing its roots back to the 1980s the Renegades are looking to rebound and reach the top of the High School competition with in the state of Washington. As someone with family on Whidbey Island , a place where I wish rugby was introduced and I believe can thrive, I am always excited to see communities like Kitsap have their own youth club and hope they will rally around and help the Renegades build up support and push these young men to greatness. 

I'd like to thank Dean Shephard very much for taking time out of his person busy life to answer some questions about the Renegades and opinions on some rugby matters. I hope you all enjoy very much! 

*Side note Bremerton and Kitsap county is a place where I hope to travel through on our next family trip up to whidbey island.

LLR- For those outside the area who are not familiar with Washington where abouts is the Kitsap rugby club located?

DS- Kitsap rugby is in Kitsap County, WA with the team center of mass being central Kitsap

LLR- How old is the club?

DS- Bangor Renegades which is now the Kitsap Renegades was originally formed as a navy team 1986. This is formed the basis of the Olympic Peninsula Sports Union (Kitsap RFU) which had included men’s, women’, boy’s, girl’s, and military teams. Kitsap Bullpups started for High School players, initially coed until the International Rugby Board banned contact between male and female players in 1992. Twice we had girl’s teams- Grenades and Lady Renegades, the boy’s team is also now called the Kitsap Renegades.  

LLR- How many players are typically registered each year?

DS- For the youth team: 17

LLR- What are the age groups provided?

DS- For the youth team: 14-19 (following age and waiver requirements)

LLR- Where are practices and games typically held at? 

DS- Practices and games for the youth team are at Fairview Elementary School, Bremerton WA

LLR- are the Renegades a one school club or multi school club?

DS- multi school, 

LLR- The seawolves have been around now for some time, has their existence helped with the growth of rugby in your area or Washington as a whole or has there not been much done to move the needle? 

DS- There has been no discernable benefit for marketing and recruiting in Kitsap county. The interest in the Seawolves starts to occur after families become rugby families. Seawolves outreach has not occurred locally. Seattle has come out to make a presentation to one of coaches.

LLR- How confident are you that for ether the men's or women's USA world cup , matches will be held in the PNW?

DS- As I understand there may be venues in Canada, depends on Vancouver, Canada.  

If Vancouver gets a venue, and it is the home of Canadian rugby, I do not see any occurring in Seattle

If Vancouver does not get a venue, Seattle may get something

LLR- What more can be done to help continue the growth of rugby in the state of Washington? 

DS- Non rugby sports with influence need to tout rugby on what it brings to their sport. Seahawks tackling/Basketball jump ball/ Soccer open field play/ Cross country running endurance in changing environment. Try to make inroads with high school JROTC as rugby is a military sport. Try to have outliers (not what is known as Pugetopolis) get more visibility and assistance (marketing is a biggie).  

LLR- What would you say to those who are skeptical about letting their son or daughter play rugby, why should they run with the ball? 

DS- Rugby is statistically safer than other contact sports. Alex Goff many years ago wrote an article “Rugby is Safer than Football”. In Kitsap county the most dangerous sport for boys is wrestling, and due to high level of concussions, girls soccer. The safer tackling techniques used by the Seahawks, culture of sportsmanship and common values is stressed

LLR- How can all of us fallow the KITSAP rugby club? 

DS- Social media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KitsapBoysRugby

Instagram : @kitsaphsrugby

Webpage:

www.kitsaprugby.com 

Contact (Team Manager- Wayne Chapin)

Contact Email: renegadeshsrugbycoachwayne@gmail.com

Contact Phone (Voice and Text): 360.550.6576