Portal:2019 Fall Men/Intro

The fall season was both frustrating and inspirational. In a mixed season the team lost close matches that could have been won, soundly won other matches, and lost against nationally ranked opponents. However, in all matches – those won and those lost – the team played with an amazing degree of heart and in the face of adversity never wavered in their commitment to the spirit of rugby.

In addition to conference opposition the Blues played the USAF 7s team, Navy and Army while the Silvers traveled to Hawaii, competed in the High Desert Classic in Albuquerque playing against New Mexico Tech and New Mexico Highlands, and competed in the Annual Jackalope Tournament playing against Utah and Montana State. The diversity of opposition provided a wide range of competition for our young players on both sides to develop their rugby acumen. An exciting aspect of the season has been the growth of players throughout as they played in some extremely challenging matches and conditions.

In October the Blues were scheduled to play a conference match at Utah State and the Silvers were scheduled to play in the High Desert Classic Tournament in Albuquerque the same weekend. Unfortunately, at the last minute our Sliver’s coach was not able to accompany the team and our other assistant coaches were already committed to work schedules. The brotherhood of rugby and the USAFA Rugby Alumni connections linked the team with willing certified coaches who could fill the void. A big note of appreciation goes out to Mark Neice, Class of 79, who connected the staff with a coach – a marine veteran - who handled the team for the tournament.

The team is fortunate to be carrying over one of the largest rosters into the spring that has been seen in perhaps the last decade.