Veggie delight.

   

 Growing up as a kid in San Jose the crazy old man seen at many sporting events was just a normal sighting. you where excited to see him because he just carried this aura of excitement with him and it was infectious. from San Jose sharks games to San Jose earthquakes, San Jose State University to Oakland Athletics and many more Krazy George was a staple at sporting events. your team could be getting blown out and season could already be lost but George had a way of whipping the crowd into a frenzy regardless if it was a few hundred or tens of thousands he knew how to command everyone's attention. Jim Stewart Allen also known now infamously as Broccoli Man has now slowly become what KG is to the San Francisco Bay Area. that is not a bad thing by any stretch, going back to when I was a kid I looked forward to when Krazy George came to my section of the stands and now as a parent before we moved to Oregon I was excited for my kids to experience Krazy George energy as I did, and they loved it. Jim is a kind loving man full of passion and I my self look forward to meeting him and when I am able to bring my kids to a Seawolves match and experience Broccoli man in the flesh.

LLR -Right off the bat question on everyone's mind, why broccoli?!

BM- Hahaha well what a valid question to ask! I made my first national TV appearance (ESPN Sportscenter) with potatoes at the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl in early 2020, and I decided I wanted to keep doing stuff like that! Because dancing with and eating vegetables on TV seemed like such a wholesome endeavor! I still dance with Potatoes, but only at the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl, that’s a special event, I needed another vegetable for the larger Pacific Northwest sporting community! After reflecting on it with some friends I decided on broccoli! Broccoli is my favorite vegetable, I love the texture, especially raw! They are very vibrant, when you see them you know, “oh, that guy brought giant crowns of broccoli with him to the game! That’s interesting!” One time I was doing my thing at a Seawolves game, and a lil 3-4 year old saw me, and started uncontrollably giggling, and he tapped on his Dad and said, “Daddy! That guy is dancing with broccoli!” in a very kind way, and then kept giggling, so cute! People compare them to pom poms, which I love! They are nature’s pom poms, and I use them to cheer on my favorite teams! In this case, the Seawolves!

<3 div="">

LLR- You've become a bit of an icon now in the Washington sports scene, do you see yourself as the Krazy George of the PNW?

BM- Hahahaha I don’t quite know how I see myself yet, this thing I do is so young still, ol George has been at it for years! I am tickled you’d compare me to such a legendary figure though, the inventor of the wave, wow! I think I’m definitely cut from the same cloth as he is, so to speak! That’d be fun to meet him, I think we’d both feel very validated knowing each other!

*(there is some controversy about the creation of The Wave. let it be known Krazy George is the inventor of the wave dont care what anyone says)

LLR- Can you share a little about yourself, day time profession and what led you to want to be an entertainer at events?

BM- My day job is being a teacher! A professional full time substitute teacher, I work in one school with that community of teachers and students and admin! But I try to be a good role model for healthy masculinity and for healthy eating. And that desire to try comes from working with kids!

I also have been doing stand up comedy since 2006! Since I was a junior in High School! So entertaining and working the crowd and figuring out how to get the crowd on my side! That is what stand up comedy is all about, and I definitely use those skills while veggie dancing, hah! Stand up taught me how to come up with a message, and then figure out how to get that message across in a way that many people will tap into and appreciate. My message is broccoli and kindness. And PNW love! And rugby love! And I guess just love in general <3 div="">

LLR- Last season for the Seawolves is when broccoli man was born, had you attended any games prior to that national television game?

BM- So this is actually an interesting question! Broccoli GUY has been a thing before rugby! The XFL Dragons in February and March, right before everything shut down, this is where I cut my teeth in the broccoli dancing biz! They liked me, the league liked me, I liked them, the XFL will be back in 2023 and I’ll be with them as Broccoli Guy

<3 div="">

    Broccoli MAN though, was never bestowed upon me though until the 2021 MLR season, so you are indeed correct, the 2021 Seawolves MLR season is when I became Broccoli Man!

I go by either and maybe I need to figure out my branding, but I think Broccoli Man fits the rugby aesthetic and I think Broccoli Guy fits the Mariners or the Dragons or the Seahawks aesthetic! Who knows hahaha, it’s just an honor to be known as these things, I do it for you broccoli! <3 div="">

As for the Nationally televised Broccoli eating session and dance, I had been to 2 games doing my thing before the Broccoli Man viral hit! The first game everyone was confused, but kind! They warmed up to me! The highlight of that game was someone successfully starting the chant, “Brocc-o-lee!! Brocc-o-lee!!” Very fun!

    The second game was during a PNW heat wave! And I actually was featured on the broadcast! But not much was said about my broccoli! I was wearing a pride romper and full on dancing during a heat wave, and they had never seen me before, so there was a lot to process, hahahahaha. But they did compliment my rhythm and I felt very validated.

The third game I went to though, that was where the magic happened! The Rugby Network was ready for me and I was ready for them, hahaha. The stars aligned!

LLR- What are your thoughts of Rugby in America, where the MLR and the Seawolves are at now and where you'd like to see it go?

BM- Ya know, here is the deal with rugby in America, ***in my humble opinion*** I always knew it existed, I went to Western Washington University, pretty big rugby school. I had friends in rugby, I went to some of the parties, they were wild, hahaha. But I never went to an actual game! After having gone to a few now, I can say I love it! It’s engaging, it’s fun, it’s accessible, I think it’s great! Americans have heard of rugby, but it’s one of those things you hear and go, “rugby. Yeah, that’s that sport all those other countries play right?” And it’s like, yeah, they do, but we play it too! On a club level, on a collegiate level and on a national level. We actually have our own full on major league, that’s broadcast on local networks and streaming services (shout out to The Rugby Network) and every once and again we are on FS2, or even CBS! So people know it exists, and I think if they came out and saw a game, they’d love it! The game speaks for itself! But Rugby in America has to find a way to get people into seats for the first time! Because as of right now it’s kind of still this thing people hear and go, “yeah but that’s not really a main sport here,”

    But there is no reason it shouldn’t be! Again, the game speaks for itself! And the atmosphere that rugby communities around the US are able to create together is I think magical, and something very beautifully American! The games I have been to, the tournaments, that’s just something I think Americans would have an easy time getting into! One of the reasons I bring my broccoli to the Seawolves, and to rugby in general, is to spotlight how much fun American rugby can be!

     As far as the Seawolves and the MLR? I would love to see them continue to build their brand based off of the excitable, kind and inclusive US rugby community. I think Rugby doing well here would add a lot to our American culture! And I think our American culture has a lot to offer Rugby! Rugby players and fans are so kind and respectful, yet competitive and fun. It’s good stuff, more of that in the US please! I’m here to help!

LLR- For those of us who have not attended a seawolves match yet, me and my wife will be attending the Austin match at the end of February. Can you share with us a few positive things about game day experience and one thing you'd like to see the club start to do?

BM- I mention this a lot, but before the second rugby game I ever attended started Seawolves player Ben Cima came over to me with a Seawolves ball, and thanked me for my energy and for what I gave of myself in my first game there!

    I just got so much of a jolt of passion from that. Rugby is still so small here, and every bit helps! Your presence is appreciated by the community! When you are at a game, you see people you know. People who are fans, people who are family members to the players, people deeply embedded in the sport and in the community. It’s humbling, it’s a cool atmosphere. I am privileged to get to be a part of it!

    Where would I like to see everything go for me personally? I’d love to see the Seawolves move to a bigger stadium, with a jumbotron! Either Cheney Stadium or Lumen Field? I have nothing but love for Starefire, and it gives so much to the Rugby community! But I think it’d speak to the growth of rugby as a whole to see the Seawolves in Lumen Field! Oh that’d be sweet!

LLR- What do you look forward to most in the coming season?

BM- Seeing people again! Yeah! There are a lot of folks within the community that I am really excited to see <3 div="">

LLR- -Any final message you'd like to get out to everyone before the first game?

BM- Go Seawolves, practice kindness, and eat some plants! <3 div="">

*if you'd like to fallow Jim the Broccoli man be sure to fallow him on any one of his social media accounts and be sure to say hi and snag a picture at Seawolves matches or many of the events around Seattle.

Twitter: @PNWBroccoliGuy

Instagram: @PNWBroccoliGuy

Portland Rugby Project- MLR ?

Like many of you, last week we where all thrown into a frenzy when a survey for the rugby community in Oregon began making it's rounds through social media inquiring about the potential of a MLR team coming to Portland, PDX. Of course being in Corvallis, which is about just over hour drive from Portland , my excitement was sparked. And of course naturally I had to reach out to find out more right away. Ben from Portland Rugby Project which is a consultanting firm was gracious enough to answer some questions and let us all know where everything stands at this time. 

LLR- Would you please introduce yourself and your involvement with the Portland Rugby Project?

 

B- My name is Ben Barlow, and I have been working with the Portland Rugby Project to determine the feasibility and assess the market conditions related to bringing a Major League Rugby team to Portland. I have been involved in rugby as a fan, player, and coach for a little over a decade and very much so look forward to exploring the possibility of bringing a new high performance pathway to the region.

 

LLR-What is the Portland Rugby Project, is the PRP seeking to be owners of a MLR team?

 

B-The Portland Rugby Project is a consulting group dedicated to identifying the feasibility of bringing a MLR team to Portland. ­

 

LLR-Have clubs throughout Oregon been contacted by PRP to seek feedback or just the clubs in and around Portland?

 

B-We just began phase two of our market research plan. As such, a variety of clubs from the Portland Metro and surrounding area were chosen to participate for more in depth research. Portland Rugby Project expects this to be the prime target market due primarily to their geographical proximity, but welcomes feedback from across the state and sincerely hopes to engage fans and supporters from the entire region as we progress.

 

LLR-Has there been any communication between this group and MLR, is the commissioner or any owners been spoken to?

 

B-No significant communication has taken place as yet. Portland Rugby Project is still in the very early stages of this process.

 

LLR-Is it possible to name a facility or more that are currently being looked at for a home venue, will this team build their own similar to what was done in Huston?

 

B-Portland Rugby Project is still reviewing a variety of possible venues and all of its options.

 

LLR-If everything falls into place what is a realistic year a Portland team can begin playing?

 

B-It is difficult to say as this is still one of the major items we are trying to identify, but the more buy in and support we continue to receive from individuals like yourself, the more likely things are to continue to progress in an expeditious manner.

I would like to thank Ben very much for getting back to me so quickly and being honest and open. As more information comes in time more information will be posted here and on LLRugby social media accounts. 

pdxmlr.com

*For more inquiring please send emails to marketing@pdxmlr.com

Also PRP has social media accounts that will be active soon. 

Newberg Girls rugby- Tigers.

It may not be Portland, or Eugene or even Salem but in Newberg Oregon there is something special brewing. The Newberg high school girls rugby team is growing and improving year after year. It is unfortunate that due to covid the State of Oregon has had to shut down and close down facilities that has made it hard for any sports team to practice let alone play games. Marcus is in a tough spot in trying to keep his players together and continue to build a program that is of varsity status through the local high school. I want to thank Marcus for agreeing to answering some questions and I hope like me you all also become new fans of the Tigers! 

LLR-  How long have you been coaching and how did you get involved with Girl’s Rugby?

 

MG- I have been coaching on and off since 2013. I started as an assistant coach for the Newberg HS Boy’s Rugby Club in 2013 and then in 2015 – 2016 I was an assistant coach for the Oregon Pioneer (Boys) Rugby Club. It wasn’t until fall of 2019 that I officially accepted the title of Head Coach for the Newberg HS Girls Rugby Varsity Team.

 

How did I get involved? I was lucky! It was the 2018 Rugby Oregon Finals Tournament at Western Oregon University (Go WOR – Western Oregon Rugby. I played 2008 – 2011). It was right after I refereed a match that the former NHS Girls Coach Bailey came up to me and said “Hey Marcus! Wanna take over as Head Coach?” It wasn’t an automatic answer, however, after a few conversations and a meet up with Bailey I decided to myself “Why Not?!”

 

Like they say in the Snickers commercial ‘No Regrets”!

LLR- When was the club founded and is it a multi school club or strictly for one high school?

MG- I had to reach out to Coach Bailey for this answer. Per her recollection the club was founded sometime in 2009 – 2010 and then excitingly became a varsity sport in 2018. To maintain the team’s varsity status, we can have a maximum of 3 players from metro areas and/or 5 players in rural areas. Their ability to play for NHS depends on whether there is a local team closer to them that they can join instead.

LLR- Due to covid how has the program stayed active since not being able to play or practice thus far?

MG- This is a good question. I will say that covid has totally impacted the team emotionally and mentally. Our last practice was on a Wednesday and then only a few hours later I had to send out mass emails saying, “Sorry girls, no Friday practice and we have no definite answer on to when we can come back.”

On of my ideas to try to keep an open and fun line of communication with them was that I created a Discord channel for my players. I created several different channels; one for rugby talk, rugby memes, rugby videos, non-rugby talk, non-rugby videos, and a channel where I attempted to live stream games from YouTube. I was super excited I found a great way to keep my team entertained. Yeah… it flopped hard. At most I had maybe 2 or 3 participants every few days. 

Other than that, I have just been regularly reaching out to the players at random via Instagram to see what they’re up to and how they’re feeling.

LLR- How many players does the team average every season?

 

MG- I would say the team gets anywhere between 12 – 23 players depending on the season. during 7s (Fall) we would see around 12 – 15 players and during 10s/15s (Spring) around 15 – 23ish.

LLR- How big is it for the club to have the varsity status compared to it being a non-varsity program through the school?

 

MG- I think for both the players and their parents the ‘varsity’ status is super important. I might be biased, and this might sound weird; however, I believe that schools show more pride and are more willing to boast the teams when they can say, “oh we have a girls varsity rugby”. Girls’ sports need as much support from the schools as they can get to flourish. I’m just excited for the future when I can have both Varsity and JV players wearing the Tigers Blue and Gold!

LLR- Has there been many crossover athletes that have come out for the team over the years?

MG- I believe that we have quite a few crossover athletes. Some of the sports that my captain tracked down was the following: Track, Soccer, Lacrosse, Wrestling, Basketball, and possibly volleyball. I hold the personal belief that players who do multiple sports excel in general! However, I have no qualms with the ladies who only play rugby. Because… Rugby!

LLR- Who would you say is the Tigers’ biggest rivals?

MG- I would have to say the rival to beat is East Portland Girls Rugby – David Douglas HS (coached by the AMAZING Toni Fuji).

LLR- What are some highs and lows the club has encountered thus far in its history?

MG- Highs: The team bond and comradery! I love seeing the Veteran players take the time to explain to the newer players different ways on how to be successful and the most important High – The love for Rugby!!!!!!

Lows: Numbers, we started of Spring 2020 with 15s in mind. However, due to circumstances outside our control we had to settle for a 10s team.

LLR- What division does the Tigers compete in?

MG- Oregon actually doesn’t have your typical ‘divisions’ for Rugby like other school sports do. For both Girls and Boys Rugby you either play as a school sport or a club sport so during finals it’s the varsity/jv finals or the club finals. 

LLR- In your opinion is Rugby Oregon and USA Rugby doing enough to help grow the game for girls at all levels?

 

MG- Rugby Oregon? Absolutely, I’ve been a Rugby Referee longer than I have been a coach and I have had the pleasure working for our former CEO Jenn Ackerman Heinrich for many years. The number of amazing things she has done to promote Rugby in Oregon (not only for the girls) is too hard to explain. I just wanna say; ‘thank you for everything you’ve done Jenn.’ Additionally, I am excited for her replacement Laci Betts who’s just as amazing. I can’t wait to see what becomes of Rugby Oregon; ‘Good luck Laci!’ 

 

USA Rugby? * cough * chapter 11… * cough * No comment…

LLR- What words of advice can you offer for others who are considering coaching Girls teams and to potential players who are thinking about giving rugby a try?

MG- For Coaches thinking about it? In the words of the majestic Shia LaBeouf “JUST DO IT! What Are You Waiting For?” Honestly, it’s the best feeling in the world being able to share your love and knowledge of Rugby. Whether you’ve only been a player, been a Team Mom all those years and want to step up, or you been refereeing so long you want to share your knowledge in a way that doesn’t require you to have to run around and chase 14 – 18 y/o for 75 – 80 minutes on Saturdays!

For Players? Don’t listen to those people who say, “oh my gosh, rugby is such a dangerous sport!” It is so much safer than American Football. Each year we’re finding new ways to ensure the highest respect for safety for players on the field. On another note, my number one philosophy of Rugby “Rugby = Family.” I don’t know how many times my WOR or Piggy family has had my back; when I lost my job, my housing, or just needed someone to be there for me, they were there! Lastly, the #1 thing about Rugby is that there is a position for EVERYONE! Are you tall? Short? Fast? Slow? Want to score by running around other people? Want to tackle a lot? Then Rugby is for you!

LLR- How can others follow along with Newberg's progress and help in any way?

MG- You can join us on the following social media platforms! 

Facebook: Facebook.com/nhsgirlsrugby

Instagram: newberggirlsrugby

Twitter: @rugby_nhs (give me a little time on this one... I’m new to Twitter!!!)

If you’re in the gift giving spirit, you’re more than welcome to support the team in many ways. Contact me via email at nhsgirlsrugby@newberg.k12.or.us, you can reach out to me directly if you have any questions on how you can contribute!

 

                                                                    Beautiful Kazoo pictured

Cheers! 

- Marcus Gillette, a WOU Wolf, a Portland Piggie, and a Newberg HS Tiger!

*Oregon offers 10s during the traditional 15s season for smaller clubs and is a great idea to keep the game growing even for smaller programs and clubs that may from time to time see numbers dip. 

Opinion 2

A while back I did reach out to James Fonda, commissioner of PacWest Rugby Conference, on his opinion for some questions that where also asked a few post back. 

It has been sometime since he has responded and I unfortunately am just getting to posting them now. 

apologies to all, and I am currently working on a new post also.  

LLR-Over the course of the last five years have you seen growth of rugby in NorCal or has it gone stagnant?

JF- I do not get see all levels of rugby but I think some levels are going strong like the collegiate women.  I think there needs more competition levels with a pathway to move when programs are getting stronger or weaker. 

LLR- Is there more that can be done to grow the game at a youth level for both boys and girls? There is always more that can be done. 

JF- I think one of the things that could be done is college programs need to do more to get youth involved such as rugby camps, speaking to programs, invitations to watches matches or practices.   

LLR- The amount of girls rugby programs compared to boys through Rugby NorCal is very minimal. What should or can be done to change that and prevent programs from folding. 

JF-  Programs so often fold for a couple of reasons.  One, a coach has a son or daughter on a team so there is invested interest in really helping a program.  Once that son or daughter leaves that program so does that coach or parent who really has done a lot of work for that program.  It leaves a huge void that needs to be filled.  Second, just a lack of organization and understanding the game. 

LLR-With NorCal having quite a few big cities like San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento and San Jose where would a MLR team fit best, or is there room for two teams? 

JF- I think in time there could be room for two teams.  Right now MLR needs to establish itself first and build that foundation.  It has some recent high profile signings but those players will leave eventually.  Broad expansion can kill MLR however no expansion looks like no growth and therefore no interest.  MLR has done well to expand in markets that can use a sports team and yet not get over their head financially.  So, I think Sacramento will be a good choice.  

LLR-With the news of yet another financial failure from USA rugby is it time to blow it up and restart the governing Union or do you think there should be drastic changes done before we get to that point ?

JF- I think USA Rugby should actually stop and try to reinvent the wheel.  They are always thinking multi-dimensional when it comes to the game that is has caused good people to leave and constant chaos.  USA Rugby is great at doing post season competitions and governance of those competitions.  It is here that should be trying to make them better and better.  I also think they should really start looking for different revenue streams no matter how small.  USA Rugby constantly weighs on the dues from its members.  They really need to explore other revenue streams at different levels of rugby.

LLR-What are your expectations for the USA men's xv's in the 2023 world cup (IF they qualify of course) and the women's xv's 2021 World cup.

JF-  I honestly think we have great coaches in the last few years.  The men need to spend more time playing as a team.  They are doing a little better with new competitions but they need to have a little more practice time.  I am very hopeful for both sides. 

MLR to Oregon.

A while back I reported that there was movement happening to bring an MLR team to Portland,OR. That movement has died , for now. At the time I knew of one of the men involved but he wanted to remain anonymous and things close to the chest until all the ducks in a row. Some time has passed and even though there is still much passion and hope to eventually see something come to the state of Oregon that gentleman has hung his boots up for now. Like many of us outside of the few who do get paid , rugby must take a back seat to our personal lives and being a new father that is what happened with the what would of been bid for MLR2PDX. 

As I stated before the person who wanted to stay anonymous , a good friend of mine has agreed to answer some what would of been questions for me and is comfortable with letting people know who he is. Raymond T. is a very passionate rugby player and fan and didn't want to just have an MLR team in Oregon but also wanted the team to mean something for rugby as a sport in Oregon and to push the needle in USA Rugby. 

One idea that was floated for something worth trying down the road was why not start an academy in a market first build up to a MLR club from there. You begin building your player pool at a young age in establishing a brand to the local community so when you are ready to make the jump you will have players ready and relationship already built.

Bellow are some questions that we discussed and and his personal answers to them, i hope you find this insightful and helps to answer some people's questions about the process that goes behind wanting to place an MLR team in any market. 

____________________________________________________________________________

LLR- how was the team to be funded ?

R- work with a local financial firm that works with a group of investors and handles over 1 billion in assets, with that said would still have like to work with community stakeholders.

LLR- Was there a plan or idea to try and team up with another of the professional sports teams in Portland ?

R-idea was to get together with the other successful professional teams in the area to create some sort of focus group to learn about the market and how to engage with the fans similar to what the Portland Timbers of the MLS have built.

LLR- Where in the metro Portland area would of been home?

R- there's a park on the border of Oregon and Washington called Delta Park, what the idea would of been was to repurposed portion of it and build some form of home stadium whether that be pop-up stadium or a little more permanent. Benefit about that location is there are hotels nearby with also entertainment shopping center and close proximity to the major highway and airport along with on site parking.

LLR- What was the biggest challenge you where going to face? 

R- close proximity to Seattle, making a good case to the league on why to add a team in Portland along with engaging the fan interest to convince long-term investment. Fans are important for any sports team big or or small if they don't show then you won't stay open too long. the plan would have been to meet with rugby Oregon and the established clubs in the state to engage interest and needs for everyone, how can the different parties benefit from an MR club and how can an MLR club benefit from them.

LLR- where you aware of the process to apply for a franchise , any specific boxes that needed to be checked off?

R- not too much did it want to jump the gun and notify mlr and the owners until everything was ready to present. Part of the reason why had to step away from the Sewolf pod was due to the fact that I didn't want to be the face of the club but work more from behind the scenes.

LLR- Team name and color?

R- Oregon Chinook, a animal that is very important to oregonians. Colors possibly would have been blue and yellow similar to ORSU (Oregon Sports Union) badge. Possibility was to set up some form a connection with local native American tribe maybe provide some form a kickback or financial gain from ticket purchases or merchandise is sold. An investment and part of the community that's overlooked by many professional sports in America.

LLR- what would ticket prices look like?

R- answer really depends on size of stadium, the larger stadiumg gives you more options to play with where a smaller stadium limits what you can do. Higher prices looks good to general public that you are serious, you can't have lower ticket prices but the higher ones will help make up for expenses. 

LLR- what was the ultimate reason that you pulled out?

R- timing was not right, personal life like many of us have to deal with. The fear of the proximity to The Seawolves and what they have built. Plus wanted to see where MLR was going .

(Still a big fan of The Seawolves.)

LLR- you are currently located in Salem.OR. is Salem now an option ?

R- open to Salem area,better possibility for a build out of a venue. Downside is Portland offers more for away fans and teams such as a major airport, hotels and entertainment. But with Salem the benefit is there is a lack of sports team to give the city a identify or for the residents something to rally behind. (Note there is the salem-keizer volcanos minor league baseball team)

#MLR2Oregon #ORMLR #Doitforthekids

* The context of the interview and subsequent reliability - i.e., Q&A conducted over phone, recalled to best ability of , LLRugby approved for publishing by interviewee, for clarification questions email ormlr@protonmail.com

I thank you all for taking the time to read through this. I hope this answered some questions or at least gave you an idea what may go through some of these owners heads who want to place a MLR team in a market.

NorCal 3/18/18 Rankings

Premier Varsity A

1- CK McClatchy

2- Granite Bay

3- Jesuit

4- Danville

5- Mother Lode

Premier Varsity B

1- Ck McClatchy

2- Danville

3- Jesuit

4- Granite Bay

5- Marin

Boys D I

1- De La Salle

2- Cougars

3- Bullard

4- SacPD PAL

5- Oakland

Boys JV D I

1- Razor Hawks

2- De La Salle

3- Christian Bros

4- Los Gatos

5- SacPD PAL

Girls D I

1- Bishop O'Dowd

2- SacPD PAL Amazons

3- River City HS

4- Land Park Harlequins

5- Pleasanton 

Impact Beyond

Mexico City , 2017 RAN 7s.

MEXICO CITY — Mexico City, home of the Campo Marte athletic grounds, will once again play host to the annual Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens tournament on November 25th and 26th, 2017. The international men’s and women’s tournament was last played on the nearly 62 thousand square kilometer facility in 2014. All Members of RAN, including Associate Members and Regional Development Unions are expected to participate. This year’s international competition is a qualifier for the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Sports Organization (CACSO) Games, 2018 Hong Kong Sevens, Rugby World Cup Sevens 2018 and Commonwealth Games.

Campo Marte is a military and equestrian venue located next to the National Auditorium in Chapultepec Park, Mexico City. Campo Marte hosts major events on behalf of the Mexican Government. The spacious grounds will house two fields of play, two warm-up areas, medical and team facilities, and covered spectator seating.

“Mexico is really thrilled to once again host the RAN 7s,” said Francisco Echeguren, President of Federacion Mexicana de Rugby. “It’s going to be held in the same beautiful location, at Campo Marte, in the middle of Mexico City, and this year we plan to make upgrades to many aspects of the tournament, including the player areas, live stream and production and the post-tournament social.”

For over a decade RAN has organized the sevens tournament to increase competition within the region and provide member unions a professional setting to showcase the sport’s rapid growth.

“We are extremely pleased that once again the RAN Sevens will be hosted by the Federacion Mexicana de Rugby at the Campo Marte Sports Complex,” said RAN General Manager Niall Brooks. “Campo Marte is a perfect location to hold such a prestigious event, with ample space for two full size, good quality pitches, warm up areas, tented “village” for all teams and excellent covered stands for what hopefully will be a sizeable crowd on both days.

“The 2017 RAN Sevens also has the added bonus of being a regional qualifier for a number of other International Sevens events and therefore we anticipate a record number of Men’s and Women’s teams entering this year. The Federacion Mexicana de Rugby are very accomplished at hosting quality regional tournaments and I am sure everyone now will be looking forward two enthralling and entertaining days of rugby sevens.”       

All participating teams will be finalized by August, with a full schedule to be released shortly after. All matches of the 2017 RAN Sevens tournament will be streamed live on RAN’s youtube channel. Fans can also follow updates on the #RAN7s tournament via Facebook and Twitter.

*Taken straight from Rugby America's North website.

Pacific Western Rugby Confrence

It has been sometime since LLR last Q&A and I do love doing these because it helps me as a fan and others to gain insight not just into there favorite teams or players but also what goes on behind the scenes and what the player or club opinions are on current events going on national and international.

As a fan of San Jose State it was only natural to contact the rugby conference they play in and get in touch with the commissioner of the Pacific Western Rugby Conference or PWRC. James Founda was a coach once for SJSU till he took the head job of the conference and is now leading all those involved down a bright future as the league continues to enjoy success with in their own conference and also against the rest of the nation, UC-Davis being a example. With so much emphasis given to DI-A and the Varsity cup, DI-AA tends to be over looked in my opinion and am glad to help shed a little more light on a portion of the level of rugby being played at DI-AA.

A man who wears many hats for the PWRC isn't just your ordinary commissioner who just holds the title and attends a few occasion meetings but instead he is also heavily involved with the growth of the conference and growing the collegiate game and helping to build bridges between everyone involved. I will leave the rest to further explain and give insight..

LLR- For those who may not know who you are, can you please share with us who the commissioner of PWRC is and your rugby back ground?

JF- My name is James Fonda and I am the commissioner of PWRC.  I have been involved in rugby for 28 years starting from years at Chico State to ending my playing career at Back Bay RFC in Newport Beach, CA.  I have coached, BBRFC, UCI Men's Rugby and San Jose State Men's Rugby.   As being the commissioner of PWRC currently, I also sit on the Collegiate Eligibility Committee for USA  Rugby and scout for the Collegiate All Americas.


LLR- The Conference last experienced growth in 2014 with the inclusion of Sacramento State and UC Davis, does the conference have plans to grow more or is 8 teams it for now?

JF- With the constant change of competition year after year, we are looking to expand that makes sense for all the teams.  There are numerous competition idea's floating around and we review it every year.  But, in the end our conference universities wants to compete for a national title year after year both in 15's and 7's.


LLR- When Sacramento and UC Davis joined what was the process, was there certain criteria that clubs must meet before coming in, who has a say in the process?

JF- Any change in competition, gets review by the board, which consists of 5 elected members, and than members are told to vote on it.  


LLR- UC- Davis are defending DI-AA champs and find them self’s in the Finals once again, how significant is this for the conference?

JF- It is massive!!!  Especially if UC Davis repeats again as a national champion, the only team that has beat UC Davis is another conference team Chico State.


LLR- For those who are not aware of the PWRC, what makes this rugby conference different from the others in the west and California?

JF- First off,  we have back to back USA Rugby Div 1AA National Champions.  Second, our top four teams can beat other top teams from other conferences and some Div1A teams.  Third, we were first conference both Div 1A or Div 1AA that has a representative side.  We are going into our third year and will be heading to the Aspen Tournament.  


LLR- How many conference games do you attend as commissioner, how involved are you with the 8 clubs and relationship with USA Rugby?

JF- Since we do have a representative side,  I attend a match a week during the season.  I get involved when teams are struggling or when they are bending the rules.  I try to help prepare teams get ready for a national title run.   Otherwise, the teams run their own programs.  
I work very closely with USA Rugby.  I am trying to build a healthy relationship with them while also building a successful national competition.   I also try to build relationships with other conference commissioners.  


LLR- Now to move on to some world rugby news, what do you make of the Super Rugby mess that has accord, do you agree with the axing down to 15 teams, how would you like to see it played out? 

JF- I think rugby has a major issue.  If you watch some of the super rugby matches, there are some clubs that can barely fill the stands.  The bottom line is that some clubs do not have a good product on the field and our barely being supported  or definitely losing money.  This in return,  puts pressure on the governing body to help fill in the deficit.  I think they are tired of doing this.

They need to consolidate.  They need to get the high standard of the product back on the field.  This brings back the fans and better TV viewing from around the world.

LLR- -there was a article out recently that there is still a shot for a super rugby team to be placed in Canada and USA come 2020, Patrick Johnston from The Province. Is having a team in super rugby and say the PRO12, USA Rugby future or should we just focus on developing our own “League” for Union? 

JF- Well it sounds like super rugby is definitely getting back to consolidation so I do not see this happening anytime soon.  I think a pro rugby league will happen in the US.  But, it's success will depend on how the competition is built.  It can be rushed, it really needs to be thought through.  Every time we try this, we fail and than it takes a few more years to get the fans back.  Remember, the key is the product on the field has to be excellent so people can say to themselves, "Wow, that was entertaining".       

LLR- Next year is the 7’s world cup played in the Bay Area, what are your predictions?

JF- It will be successful.  I also think the world should take notice if USA Rugby does well from operating the tournament than this can lead to the grand daddy of hosting the 15's world cup.  I also think the Pat Clifton does not know what he is talking about when is stating that the USA Rugby is built on a house of cards from his article on www.rugbytoday.com.   If I had to evaluate where we are in 7's it is that we are right on track to really give it a go in 2018.  I even like the depth of some real talent coming in as well.    

LLR- Last two questions, the Toronto wolf pack kicked off this year in the league 1 and plan on working their way up to the super League, if things go according to plan there is talks to start 2-3 US based Professional league clubs just like the Wolf Pack, with that talk and also again with Pro12 and Super Rugby eyeing US for potential teams, could League and Union work at the professional level in America?  

JF- Union by far, it is really grabbing on the roots level while league has no youth program what so ever.  Once again, it is the time to set up the competition properly and not rush it that will make the difference.

LLR- Lastly, if you could see one match up of any National side or Club team, what would that be?  

JF- Wow, a tough question, I think that a collegiate representative side tournament brought back could really be huge.  The college game is where it is at.  The structure is there as well.  I am hoping to see this in 2018.  

PWRC representative side.

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I would like to thank James for taking the time to respond and hope to do one of these again in the lead up to the 2018 season and what new developments we can expect from the Pacific Western Rugby Conference. if anyone has any question for me or James please feel free to use the contacts listed below, and I encourage everyone to not only fallow and support the PWRC but also there own local college programs, the more support and enthusiasm shown to these programs the more serious those university associated with them will begin to lend a helping hand in many shapes and ways.

*Stanford over the weekend won the PacWest 7s tournament and will be heading to the USA 7s nationals. 

PWRC: pacwestrugby.com/

PWRC Commissioner: James Fonda - jamesfonda@pacwestrugby.com

LLR: llrugby@yahoo.com