Many sports related law suits involve injury (that's why there are lawsuits to begin with). I am happy to say that most lawsuits do not involve rugby. However, there are still important principles at play that have implications for the rugby community. In Shain v. Racine Raiders Football Club, Inc., 2006 WI App 257 a coach was injured while standing on the sidelines of a youth (11-12 year old) football game.
Multiple youth teams were playing games on a football field with the youth fields laid out running from side-line to side-line of the full-sized field. As a result, the middle fields shared a sideline. The coach was injured when a player from the adjacent field ran out of bounds and struck the coach, injuring his knee. The coach sued, alleging that the the organizers were negligent in not laying out the fields to allow a safety zone between fields.
The court tossed about whether the coach was a spectator, and therefore subject to the "Baseball Rule" or a participant, and therefore subject to Wis. Stat. s. 895.525(4m) which allows for recovery for injuries in a contact sport "only if the participant who caused the injury acted recklessly or with intent to cause injury." cf. my prior post. The "Baseball Rule", in brief, is that a spectator assumes the risk of attending a sporting event and, therefore cannot sue if, for instance, they are hit by a foul ball or some other foreseeable consequence of attending a particular type of sporting event. Ultimately, the court concluded that the coach was a hybrid spectator/participant and that his own negligence precluded recovery. In other words, when standing on a sideline between two fields, the coach should have known that he might get run into by a player from the other field.
Youth rugby guidelines recommend laying out youth fields in a similar manner (i.e. two fields running width wide across a rugby pitch) -- but suggest having a 5-10m safety zone between the sideline and the field goal posts and a 10m safety zone between the youth pitches -- if only they had been playing rugby this all could have been avoided. More importantly, the court's holding in Shain is directly applicable to the involvement of coaches in rugby in the event a coach (or spectator) is injured on the sideline -- when attending a rugby game -- people standing on the sideline should know that players may run about of bounds and you may get hurt. Therefore, it is best for spectators to stand behind the sideline ropes and for people in front of the sideline ropes to pay attention to the game, so that injury can be avoided.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Friday, December 14, 2007
Vis unita fortior
Vis unita fortior is listed as the motto of Alhambra-Union Rugby Football Club in this article on the influence of Greek and Latin on culture in New Zealand. This motto translates loosely to "A united force is stronger" or "united we are stronger" I think this is one of the better team mottoes and really expresses some positive rugby attitude.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Help Wanted In Kenosha
Are you looking for a way to help out our growing sport? Do you want to start coaching in one of the most competitive (and fun) rugby conferences in the country? Well, now is your chance to get in the game. John Klien, from DSHA, has put out a help wanted add for a coach in the Kenosha area on behalf of a a physical education teacher who wants to start a rugby club, but needs some help coaching and learning the game herself.
This is a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a club. Moreover, you will have the advantage of working with a teacher who is already at the school. This is a huge recruiting/organizational advantage. If anyone is interested, please post a comment here, and I will do what I can to put you in touch with the right people.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Id nos vinixisemus'
One of my favorite mottoes for a rugby team, "Id nos vinixisemus" -- "we should've won that one" comes from Mossley Hill RUFC in England.
I can't verify the authenticity of the Latin -- I'm pretty sure that should be vinxissemus --- (the pluperfect subjective) --- but perhaps I have it wrong. In any event, its a fun one.
I can't verify the authenticity of the Latin -- I'm pretty sure that should be vinxissemus --- (the pluperfect subjective) --- but perhaps I have it wrong. In any event, its a fun one.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
The Laws are the law...
In an effort to report about relevant sports law, here is an oldie but one of the few American cases involving the sport of rugby, D'Agostino v. Karjewsi, 89 CIV. 0131 (S.D.N.Y. 1990) [UNPUBLISHED]. Before I recite the facts, let me just say that every sport (even wiffle ball) has cases of injury and foul play. This case does not reflect on Rugby as a whole, rugby players, etc... Rather, it is one unfortunate incident. However, there is a lesson for all players... the Laws of the Game are the law.
In 1988, Old Blue RFC and Mystic River RFC were playing a game at the Can-AM Rugby Tournament. During the game, a Mystic player was lying on the ball during a ruck. The sir called the penalty and blew the whistle to stop play. After the whistle, an Old Blue player the defendant "ran towards" the player on the ground and kicked him in the face. The sir penalized Old Blue and sent the player off immediately.
The injured player later sued the player who kicked him, Old Blue Rugby Club, its Captain and officers (on the theory that they were negligent in recruitment and discipline of the player (who was a professional playing in an amateur game), the tournament organizers (because they were negligent in inviting Old Blue to play in the tournament and should have been aware of Old Blue's reputation for violence).
The defendants moved to dismiss the lawsuit based on the "assumption of risk" doctrine --i.e. that the player, by entering the rugby game, understood the risks and by playing the game "consented to those injury-causing events which are known, apparent or reasonably foreseeable consequences of the participation." This doctrine is generally true, but where the conduct which causes injury was "reckless or intentional" the person can be held liable and potentially those individuals (like the team captain/officers/coaches) who knew or should have known about the player's propensity to play outside the rules.
In denying the motion to dismiss, the court noted that the injury occurred after the whistle had stopped play for the first penalty. The question of whether the injury was "foreseeable" (and therefore within the "assumption of risk" doctrine) depends on factors, including but not limited to "the ultimate purpose of the game and the method or methods of winning it; the relationship between the defendant's conduct to the game's ultimate purpose, especially his conduct with respect to rules and customs whose purpose is to enhance safety of the participants; and the equipment involved in playing the game."
In analyzing these factors, court noted that the type of play involved in the case (i.e. kicking a player after the whistle had blown) had no relationship to the rules of the game of rugby:
Therefore, because the player's conduct was flagrantly outside of the laws of Rugby, the judge allowed the claim to proceed to trial. Moreover, the court found that there were material issues of fact as to whether Old Blue, its officer and captain and the tournament organizers should have known that this player had a tendency to flagrantly violate the Laws of rugby when playing.
The lesson for coaches and players should be obvious. We can't tolerate dangerous play and coaches must be sure to discipline players appropriately (i.e. suspending players who have been issued red cards by the sir) and instructing players regarding proper play.
Let me just say one more time -- this isn't a rugby issue. The Court's ruling was actually based on an suit involving jockeys and horse racing, Turcotte v. Fell, 68 N.Y.2d 432 (1986).
In 1988, Old Blue RFC and Mystic River RFC were playing a game at the Can-AM Rugby Tournament. During the game, a Mystic player was lying on the ball during a ruck. The sir called the penalty and blew the whistle to stop play. After the whistle, an Old Blue player the defendant "ran towards" the player on the ground and kicked him in the face. The sir penalized Old Blue and sent the player off immediately.
The injured player later sued the player who kicked him, Old Blue Rugby Club, its Captain and officers (on the theory that they were negligent in recruitment and discipline of the player (who was a professional playing in an amateur game), the tournament organizers (because they were negligent in inviting Old Blue to play in the tournament and should have been aware of Old Blue's reputation for violence).
The defendants moved to dismiss the lawsuit based on the "assumption of risk" doctrine --i.e. that the player, by entering the rugby game, understood the risks and by playing the game "consented to those injury-causing events which are known, apparent or reasonably foreseeable consequences of the participation." This doctrine is generally true, but where the conduct which causes injury was "reckless or intentional" the person can be held liable and potentially those individuals (like the team captain/officers/coaches) who knew or should have known about the player's propensity to play outside the rules.
In denying the motion to dismiss, the court noted that the injury occurred after the whistle had stopped play for the first penalty. The question of whether the injury was "foreseeable" (and therefore within the "assumption of risk" doctrine) depends on factors, including but not limited to "the ultimate purpose of the game and the method or methods of winning it; the relationship between the defendant's conduct to the game's ultimate purpose, especially his conduct with respect to rules and customs whose purpose is to enhance safety of the participants; and the equipment involved in playing the game."
In analyzing these factors, court noted that the type of play involved in the case (i.e. kicking a player after the whistle had blown) had no relationship to the rules of the game of rugby:
Although rugby is an inherently rough contact sport, the act of kicking someone after play has been stopped has no relation to a team's ultimate purpose of gaining possession of or advancing the ball.
Furthermore, such an act is a flagrant violation of the rules of rugby, which state "it is illegal for any player willfully to hack or kick an opponent or to trip him with the foot, or to trample on the opponent lying on the ground."
Therefore, because the player's conduct was flagrantly outside of the laws of Rugby, the judge allowed the claim to proceed to trial. Moreover, the court found that there were material issues of fact as to whether Old Blue, its officer and captain and the tournament organizers should have known that this player had a tendency to flagrantly violate the Laws of rugby when playing.
The lesson for coaches and players should be obvious. We can't tolerate dangerous play and coaches must be sure to discipline players appropriately (i.e. suspending players who have been issued red cards by the sir) and instructing players regarding proper play.
Let me just say one more time -- this isn't a rugby issue. The Court's ruling was actually based on an suit involving jockeys and horse racing, Turcotte v. Fell, 68 N.Y.2d 432 (1986).
Monday, November 19, 2007
The All Star Matches
This past weekend the Midwest U-19 team defeated the Pacific coast team 29-19 to win the all-star tournament held in Nashville. The Midwest U-19 team contained its contingent of Wisconsin high school players from DSHA and Kettle Moraine. Of note, Tony Cattani from KM played Fly-half for the Thunderbirds, the MidwestU-19 select side, and scored one of the 5 tries leading to their victory over the Pacific coast. Congratulations to our Territorial union for this big win!
The U-17 Eagles, which also had a Wisconsin contingent took 5th place with a 24-0 victory over Mid-Atlantic u-19 select side.
The U-17 Eagles, which also had a Wisconsin contingent took 5th place with a 24-0 victory over Mid-Atlantic u-19 select side.
Sanctissimum Iisden Studiis Initiari Vinculum Amicitiae
Every club needs a Latin motto. Perhaps that's not true, but I like them all the same. Since it's the off-season, I thought I would post some of the more interesting ones (or ones which I can find) on the blog. This motto 'Sanctissimum iisden studiis initiari vinculum amicitiae' translates to 'Common pursuits make firm friends." This is the motto of Camp Hill RFC which was founded in 1883 at King Edward VI grammar school in England.
Around the high school girls rugby community at least two clubs have a Latin mottoes:
Around the high school girls rugby community at least two clubs have a Latin mottoes:
- Fortis et Audax (Strong and Bold) is the motto which appeared on the crest (the yellow and red roses) of the DSHA RFC in the early years. The crest has lost the Latin motto, but it retains the roses.
- Caritas in Omnibus (Charity in all things) is the school motto for CMH.
Along with the practical law for rugby players, we'll throw in some Latin mottoes until the season starts up in the Spring.
Friday, November 16, 2007
The trials and tribulations of coaching...
In a story reported by the New York Post, BASE ACCUSATION , back in May a parent sued Little League Baseball and her son's coach after the player was injured while sliding into a base. The parent alleged that the coach failed to equip the player with the skill necessary to safely play baseball.
If a parent is willing to sue a baseball coach for not teaching a kid to slide, just think what a parent would do if a coach didn't teach a player to properly tackle, scrum, ruck, etc... Coaches should really spend the time getting USARFU certifications and reading up on teaching safety to their players. Clubs should invest in their coaches and help defray the cost of training program for these volunteers (with one or two notable exceptions). Investing in coach training makes the sport safer and more enjoyable for all. Having said that, I think our Wisconsin teams have an excellent record of both coaches and sirs stressing safety first when training new players. Let's keep up the good work and not end up like that ruffian sport, baseball.
Since its the off-season, I will try to report on some of those pesky legal topics that surround the rugby community. Hopefully, this will be of interest to some readers.
If a parent is willing to sue a baseball coach for not teaching a kid to slide, just think what a parent would do if a coach didn't teach a player to properly tackle, scrum, ruck, etc... Coaches should really spend the time getting USARFU certifications and reading up on teaching safety to their players. Clubs should invest in their coaches and help defray the cost of training program for these volunteers (with one or two notable exceptions). Investing in coach training makes the sport safer and more enjoyable for all. Having said that, I think our Wisconsin teams have an excellent record of both coaches and sirs stressing safety first when training new players. Let's keep up the good work and not end up like that ruffian sport, baseball.
Since its the off-season, I will try to report on some of those pesky legal topics that surround the rugby community. Hopefully, this will be of interest to some readers.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
U-20 Eagles
USA Rugby announced the U-20 Eagles team that will competing in the Under 19 Invitational National All-Star Championships (INASC) to be held in Nashville, Tenn., on November 16-17, 2007. The squad includes forward Maggie Reidy and back Lauren Franzen , both from D.S.H.A.
Congratulations girls and good luck this weekend.
Congratulations girls and good luck this weekend.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Girls Health In Wisconsin
The Journal Sentinel reported this story on a study by Alverno College on the state of high school girls in Wisconsin, in terms of education and health issues. One particular quote stood out:
The full report is available on the Wisconsin Women's Council website.
Another mystery that emerged from the report relates to girls' health. They watch less television than their male counterparts, but report falling below recommended levels of physical activity.Our community, i.e. rugby in Wisconsin, offers high school girls something unique. It is an opportunity for a girl to become fully involved in a sport, even if she has not been participating and playing it since she was 3 years old. This provides an opportunity for everyone from star athletes who are burnt out on another sport to girls who just never found thier niche. The Wisconsin rugby community should be proud of its efforts and should recognize that what we do is more than just a shot at a winning a sports competition, but an opportunity to help young women thrive.
"They're not exactly couch potatoes, but what is it? Are they texting on their phones?" O'Brien said. "We want interpretation from girls who are living it."
The full report is available on the Wisconsin Women's Council website.
News from the Colonies (i.e. us)
The Front Row Union (FRU), a rugby website from Ulster, Ireland, gave a mention to the Wisconsin High School Girls on their webzine (the Nov. 4th 2007, Issue 75) in their "News from the Colonies" column (near the bottom).
The FRU prominently features profiles of the UWM Panther players in anticipation of their Midwest Final 4 match this weekend, Nov. 10th. Good luck to the Panthers as they take on Bowling Green in their upcoming semi-final match.
The FRU prominently features profiles of the UWM Panther players in anticipation of their Midwest Final 4 match this weekend, Nov. 10th. Good luck to the Panthers as they take on Bowling Green in their upcoming semi-final match.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Our First Alumna Eagle!
The Women's Rugby Review blog reported the line-up for the Women's Eagles for their tour of England in December. What is notable is that Kati McCormick, who currently plays for the Univ. of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, will be joining the Eagles as a lock.
While alumnae of Wisconsin high school teams have featured prominently on the US U-19 team and even on the U-23 team, Kati's selection for the tour represents the first time an alumna of a Wisconsin high school team has been selected as a senior side Eagle. Kati played with the Kettle Moraine Knightmares for 4 years while in high school and was part of the 2004 team which placed 2nd at the NIT. Here is a picture of Katie (in blue) taking a tackle at the 2004 NIT, when KM earned a 2nd place finish.
Congratulations to Katie! Wisconsin will be rooting for you.
While alumnae of Wisconsin high school teams have featured prominently on the US U-19 team and even on the U-23 team, Kati's selection for the tour represents the first time an alumna of a Wisconsin high school team has been selected as a senior side Eagle. Kati played with the Kettle Moraine Knightmares for 4 years while in high school and was part of the 2004 team which placed 2nd at the NIT. Here is a picture of Katie (in blue) taking a tackle at the 2004 NIT, when KM earned a 2nd place finish.
Congratulations to Katie! Wisconsin will be rooting for you.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
The All Tournament Team
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Here is a picture of most (but not all) of the All Tournament Team Players following the Oct. 28, 2007 playoffs. And our 2007 Wisconsin Girls High School Rugby All Tournament Team is:
Front Row Players:
Anastasia Krusel, 11, KM
Elizabeth Linnemanstons, 10, DSHA
Jamie Wojciechowski, 10, Vernon
McKenna Smith, 11, CMH
Second Row Players:
Maggie Reidy, 12, DSHA
Kristy Fons, 12, Oak Creek
Kristy Fons, 12, Oak Creek
Cari Berdan, 12, Brookfield
Morgan Schneider, 10 Muskego
Back Row Players:
Danielle Radtke, 10 Vernon
Ellen Schwarts, 12, Vernon
Kelly Robinson, 12, Brookfield
Erin Davis, 10 CMH
Scrum Half:
Emma Pesci, 11, CMH
Inside Back:
Toni Cattani, 11, KM
Erin Coogan, 12 DSHA
Lauren Maddente, 12 CMH
Jaykie Okupniak, 10 Muskego
Lyla Hensel, 11 DSHA
Back 3:
Lauren Franzen, 11 DSHA
Sarah Chimielewski, 11 DSHA
Dana Anderson, 10, Brookfield
Chelsea Kindler, 11 Muskego
Congratulations to the All-Tournament Team and thank you to the selectors.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Good press, results, and some final thoughts
Here's the link to the story in the Journal Sentinel. In short, it was a wonderderful way to end the season, a real celebration of the whole league. I was most impressed by the fact that every game mattered, every team played with pride and determination whether they were playing for 7th place or 1st. I think 10 years from now, many of us will be standing on the side-lines of a state tournament in late October in the driving cold rain or snow and we will all have fond memories of that first tournament, when sun shined down and the girls just played good rugby.
And now the final score reports and rankings for the Fall 2007 season:
7th Place Oak Creek 20 – Northshore Shore 10
5th Place Brookfield 40 – Kettle Moraine 10
3rd Place Catholic Memorial 22 - Muskego 15
State Champ DSHA 27 - Vernon 0
A special thanks to all the volunteers who put the state tournament together, especially Noe for taking on the thankless job of tournament coordinator and Wally, for his tireless efforts to get out the word to the press.
Hopefully, we'll be posting the names of the all state tournament team on this blog in a few days.
And now the final score reports and rankings for the Fall 2007 season:
7th Place Oak Creek 20 – Northshore Shore 10
5th Place Brookfield 40 – Kettle Moraine 10
3rd Place Catholic Memorial 22 - Muskego 15
State Champ DSHA 27 - Vernon 0
A special thanks to all the volunteers who put the state tournament together, especially Noe for taking on the thankless job of tournament coordinator and Wally, for his tireless efforts to get out the word to the press.
Hopefully, we'll be posting the names of the all state tournament team on this blog in a few days.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Coaching Changes/Rugby Alumnae
Since this blog posted the help-wanted add for Northshore, I guess we should report that that Northshore found a new head coach for the coming season, Kathrine Brennan. She will be replacing Katie Ehr, who served as the head coach this past season and who was previously the coach of Whitefish Bay. Both Kathrine and Katie played together at DSHA in the dark years, when there were no other high school teams in Wisconsin. As proof, here is the very first picture from this site from the very first "Nationals" tournament -- both Kathrine and Katie are in there somewhere.
I know the league is glad to see that some of its first players are coming back to help-out and provide opportunities for other players. Fortunately, Katie Ehr won't be leaving the rugby scene for long as, rumor has it, she is getting her credentials as a sir and will be helping out with a whistle come spring. Good luck (and thank you) to both Katie and Kathrine as they take on new roles in the Girls Rugby community.
I think that other alumnae from other clubs are also in the mix for sir certification and coaching positions. We'll try to update when we learn of alumnae from other teams who are coming back to contribute.
I know the league is glad to see that some of its first players are coming back to help-out and provide opportunities for other players. Fortunately, Katie Ehr won't be leaving the rugby scene for long as, rumor has it, she is getting her credentials as a sir and will be helping out with a whistle come spring. Good luck (and thank you) to both Katie and Kathrine as they take on new roles in the Girls Rugby community.
I think that other alumnae from other clubs are also in the mix for sir certification and coaching positions. We'll try to update when we learn of alumnae from other teams who are coming back to contribute.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Semin-Final Results
The breaking news is DS prevailed over Muskego 60-0 and Vernon defeated Catholic Memorial 19-12.
This means that Vernon will compete with DSHA for top honors on Sunday and Muskego will take-on Catholic Memorial for the 3rd place spot.
Good luck to all the teams as the finish up a very exciting season.
This means that Vernon will compete with DSHA for top honors on Sunday and Muskego will take-on Catholic Memorial for the 3rd place spot.
Good luck to all the teams as the finish up a very exciting season.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Play-off weekend
The Wisconsin High School Girls Rugby playoffs conclude Oct 28th with the State Championship tournament at Naga-Waukee Park in Delafield, Wisconsin.
With the results still out on the two semi-final matches (DS v. Muskego and Vernon v. Catholic Memorial) which will determine who will play in the Finals and the 3rd place matches, here is the schedule for the play-off weekend.
7th Place Match 10:30am Oak Creek v. Northshore
5th Place Match 12pm Kettle Moraine v. Brookfield
3rd Place Match 1:30pm TBD
State Championship 3:00pm TBD
The State Tournament will feature the top eight high school girls rugby teams in the state, competing for their final ranking.
Milwaukee’s D.S.H.A. is a four-time National Champion and favored in the tournament.
The Town of Vernon is also a perennial powerhouse, finishing third in the country last season and first in their conference this season.
In the past year, Catholic Memorial H.S. and Oak Creek have added teams to one of the strongest conferences in the country
With the results still out on the two semi-final matches (DS v. Muskego and Vernon v. Catholic Memorial) which will determine who will play in the Finals and the 3rd place matches, here is the schedule for the play-off weekend.
7th Place Match 10:30am Oak Creek v. Northshore
5th Place Match 12pm Kettle Moraine v. Brookfield
3rd Place Match 1:30pm TBD
State Championship 3:00pm TBD
The State Tournament will feature the top eight high school girls rugby teams in the state, competing for their final ranking.
Milwaukee’s D.S.H.A. is a four-time National Champion and favored in the tournament.
The Town of Vernon is also a perennial powerhouse, finishing third in the country last season and first in their conference this season.
In the past year, Catholic Memorial H.S. and Oak Creek have added teams to one of the strongest conferences in the country
Friday, October 19, 2007
Rugby World Culture
Since it's world cup season, there is a lot of exciting rugby news in the world. The BBC posted this story about rugby culture for those new to the sport. While obviously rugby traditions vary across culture and age level (e.g. our high school teams aren't socializing at the pub after matches), I like to see that there are those important common bonds that make rugby unique that the article points out. Specifically, the positive, sportsman like conduct of both players and fans. This is something that I hope our little league maintains as we move forward, even with our more structured play-off setting. Here some quotes from the article:
Positive Player conduct:Key aspects to look out for in rugby include:
Low-key
celebrations - no
robotic dancing or going to the crowd
Any back-chat to
the referee is
punished by moving the penalty forward 10 yards
Players
rarely fake injury
Gracious in defeat - handshakes, as in football, and
"tunnels" of applause
at pitch-side, followed by socialising.Positive Fan Conduct
When in the stadium, there's no segregation - rival supporters sit
side-by-side (unlike football (soccer). Fans are expected to respect the anthems
and allow players to prepare to kick penalties without being whistled.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Any Press is Good Press
The Journal Sentinel carried this article which mentions both the boys and girls rugby conferences and thier post-match tradition. It has been great, over the years, to watch the players from all the different girls teams come together after matches and get to konw thier opponents. Because some of these girls are playing for four years, they really get to know the opposition through the post-match social and on-the-field play which is unique. Our high school rugby community should be very proud of our unique tradition of post-match hospitality.
I konw the post match is a lot of work for teams and players and sometimes it doesn't seem to fit in to the hectic lifestyles we all live. But it is very rewarding to see the teams play hard and then take the time to share and socialize with the opposition.
I konw the post match is a lot of work for teams and players and sometimes it doesn't seem to fit in to the hectic lifestyles we all live. But it is very rewarding to see the teams play hard and then take the time to share and socialize with the opposition.
Monday, October 15, 2007
State Quarterfinals
The official score reports are in:
Muskego over OC 20-0
Vernon over Northshore 15-0
CHM over Brookfield 27-10
The fourth quarter final (DS v. KM) will be played this afternoon.
SO... next weekend's games:
Vernon v. CMH (Semi-final 1) (Vernon is the home team)
Muskego v. (winner of DS v. KM) Semin final 2
Brookfield v. Northshore (Brookfield is the home team)
OC v. (loser of DS v. KM)
Muskego over OC 20-0
Vernon over Northshore 15-0
CHM over Brookfield 27-10
The fourth quarter final (DS v. KM) will be played this afternoon.
SO... next weekend's games:
Vernon v. CMH (Semi-final 1) (Vernon is the home team)
Muskego v. (winner of DS v. KM) Semin final 2
Brookfield v. Northshore (Brookfield is the home team)
OC v. (loser of DS v. KM)
State Quarterfinals
The official score reports are in:
Muskego over OC 20-0
Vernon over Northshore 15-0
CHM over Brookfield 27-10
The fourth quarter final (DS v. KM) will be played this afternoon.
SO... next weekend's games:
Vernon v. CMH (Semi-final 1) (Vernon is the home team)
Muskego v. (winner of DS v. KM) Semin final 2
Brookfield v. Northshore (Brookfield is the home team)
OC v. (loser of DS v. KM)
Muskego over OC 20-0
Vernon over Northshore 15-0
CHM over Brookfield 27-10
The fourth quarter final (DS v. KM) will be played this afternoon.
SO... next weekend's games:
Vernon v. CMH (Semi-final 1) (Vernon is the home team)
Muskego v. (winner of DS v. KM) Semin final 2
Brookfield v. Northshore (Brookfield is the home team)
OC v. (loser of DS v. KM)
Monday, October 8, 2007
Week 5 Standings
Pool A:
CMH(4-1) v. KM (1-4) 46-5 (5pts for CMH)
NS (1-4) v. DSHA 0-88 (5 pts. for DSHA)
Pool B:
Oak Creek (1-4) v. FDL (forfiet-- 5 pts .for OC)
Brookfield (2-2-1) v. Vernon 20-36 (5 pts .for Vernon; 1pts. for Brookfield for 4 or more tries)
Non-Pool Play:
Muskego v. DS-B 15-5
FINAL STANDINGS:
Pool A: (1) DS (20pts) (2) CMH ( 14 pts.); (3) Muskego (10 pts.); (4) NS (6 pts.) (5) KM ( 0 pts).
Pool B: (1) Vernon (15pts.); (2)Oak Creek (9 pts.).(3) Brookfield (7 pts) (4) FDL (0 pts.).
These are the final standings going into the 8-team play-off format. KM has qualified as the #4 seed in Pool B.
This weekend's quarterfinal games are:
DS v. KM
Vernon v. NS
CMH v. the Bruisers
The OC v. Muskego
CMH(4-1) v. KM (1-4) 46-5 (5pts for CMH)
NS (1-4) v. DSHA 0-88 (5 pts. for DSHA)
Pool B:
Oak Creek (1-4) v. FDL (forfiet-- 5 pts .for OC)
Brookfield (2-2-1) v. Vernon 20-36 (5 pts .for Vernon; 1pts. for Brookfield for 4 or more tries)
Non-Pool Play:
Muskego v. DS-B 15-5
FINAL STANDINGS:
Pool A: (1) DS (20pts) (2) CMH ( 14 pts.); (3) Muskego (10 pts.); (4) NS (6 pts.) (5) KM ( 0 pts).
Pool B: (1) Vernon (15pts.); (2)Oak Creek (9 pts.).(3) Brookfield (7 pts) (4) FDL (0 pts.).
These are the final standings going into the 8-team play-off format. KM has qualified as the #4 seed in Pool B.
This weekend's quarterfinal games are:
DS v. KM
Vernon v. NS
CMH v. the Bruisers
The OC v. Muskego
Friday, October 5, 2007
Week 4 Standings
Week 4 Standings:
Pool A:
CMH(3-1) v. NS (1-3) 54-0 (5pts. for CMH)
Muskego (2-2) v KM (1-3) (24-12) (5pts. for Muskego)
Pool B:
Oak Creek (1-3) v. Brookfield (2-1-1) 19-15 (4pts. for The OC and 1 pt. for Brookfield)
DS-B v. Oak Creek 15-5 (no points)
Non-Pool Play
DS-A [No pool play]
Vernon v. UWM [Score Not Reported]
[SCORES NOT REPORTED]
Pool A: (1) DS (15pts) (2) Muskego (10 pts.); (3) CMH ( 9 pts.); (3) NS (6 pts.) (4) (5) KM ( 0 pts).
Pool B: (1) Vernon (10pts.); (2) Brookfield (6 pts), (3) Oak Creek (4 pts.). (4) FDL (0 pts.);
Pool A:
CMH(3-1) v. NS (1-3) 54-0 (5pts. for CMH)
Muskego (2-2) v KM (1-3) (24-12) (5pts. for Muskego)
Pool B:
Oak Creek (1-3) v. Brookfield (2-1-1) 19-15 (4pts. for The OC and 1 pt. for Brookfield)
DS-B v. Oak Creek 15-5 (no points)
Non-Pool Play
DS-A [No pool play]
Vernon v. UWM [Score Not Reported]
[SCORES NOT REPORTED]
Pool A: (1) DS (15pts) (2) Muskego (10 pts.); (3) CMH ( 9 pts.); (3) NS (6 pts.) (4) (5) KM ( 0 pts).
Pool B: (1) Vernon (10pts.); (2) Brookfield (6 pts), (3) Oak Creek (4 pts.). (4) FDL (0 pts.);
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Coach Needed
This email was passed along to the Girls Coaching Community, but I thought
it would be a good idea to give it the widest circulation possible:
it would be a good idea to give it the widest circulation possible:
I am the manager for the North Shore Highlanders girls rugby team in Mequon. I am in urgent need of a coach. We have a pretty talented team, with a lot of underclassmen for players. This means that next year we can have a powerhouse of
a team. Only problem is I an in need of coaching. Our coach right now can't continue, new job responsibilities make it impossible for her to coach.We currently have 17-20 players on the team roster. We are a combination of
players from Mequon, Cedarburg, Whitefish Bay. We practice Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays at Kletche Park in Glendale. We only have two games left in our season, then we start our playoffs. The playoff run through the month of October, with the Final on October 28th.For the past two years we have travelled to Fullerton California in March to participate in an international tournament (they have teams from Canada). Last
year we took home the tournament trophy. I have been with this team for 6 years. I do all the planning, paying, and purchasing, etc etc. I really don't want to see this team fall apart, but without coaching there isn't anything I can do.Please let me know if you are interested in helping with the team. You can call me at home after 7:00 pm - #262-242-5120.
Thank you
Paula Luft
NorthShore Highlanders -
Manager
The Northshore Highlanders are one of our oldest clubs with a long and storied past. Aside from the accomplishments listed above, they placed 3rd at Nationals in a year when DSHA finished 5th. Let's not let that club go without a coach. Please pass this along to anyone who might be interested
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Week 3 Standings
Here are the week 3 results and standings .
Week 3 Results:
Conference A:
CMH (2-1) v. Muskego (1-2) 10-5 (4pts. for CMH; 1 pt. for Muskego)
DS-A v. KM 79-0 (5pts. for conference standings)
Conference B:
FDL (0-3) v. Vernon (3-0) (0-86) (forfeit -- 5pts )
Oak Creek v. DS-B [Rescheduled to 10/4] (0 points for conference play)
Non-Conference
Brookfield (2-0-1) v. Northshore (1-2) 42-0 (0pts for standings)
STANDINGS:
Conference A: (1) DS (15pts) (2) NS (6 pts.) (3) Muskego (5 pts.); (4) CMH ( 4pts.) (5) KM ( 0 pts).
Conference B: (1) Vernon (10pts.); (2) Brookfield (5pts), (3) FDL (0 pts.); Oak Creek (0 pts.).
Week 3 Results:
Conference A:
CMH (2-1) v. Muskego (1-2) 10-5 (4pts. for CMH; 1 pt. for Muskego)
DS-A v. KM 79-0 (5pts. for conference standings)
Conference B:
FDL (0-3) v. Vernon (3-0) (0-86) (forfeit -- 5pts )
Oak Creek v. DS-B [Rescheduled to 10/4] (0 points for conference play)
Non-Conference
Brookfield (2-0-1) v. Northshore (1-2) 42-0 (0pts for standings)
STANDINGS:
Conference A: (1) DS (15pts) (2) NS (6 pts.) (3) Muskego (5 pts.); (4) CMH ( 4pts.) (5) KM ( 0 pts).
Conference B: (1) Vernon (10pts.); (2) Brookfield (5pts), (3) FDL (0 pts.); Oak Creek (0 pts.).
Monday, September 17, 2007
Week 2 Results
Pool A:
DSHA-A (2-0) v. CMH 35-5 (1-1) (5 pts for pool standings)
NS (1-1) v. Musk (1-1) 5-7 (4 pts. for Musk./1pt. for NS) for losing by less than 7 pts.).
Pool B:
DS-B (1-0-1) v. Brookfield (1-0-1) 10-10 (0 pts. for pool standings--per the rules)
Vernon (2-0) v. Oak Creek 29-0 (0-2) (5 tries scored) (5pts. for pool standings)
Non-Conference Matches:
FDL v. KM -----[0 pts for conference standings -- NOT REPORTED]
Current Standings:
Conference A: (1) DS (10pts) (2) NS (6 pts.) (3) Muskego (4 pts.); (4) CMH (0pts.) KM (0pts).
Conference B: (1) Brookfield (5pts), Vernon (5pts.); (2) FDL (0 pts.); Oak Creek (0 pts.).
DSHA-A (2-0) v. CMH 35-5 (1-1) (5 pts for pool standings)
NS (1-1) v. Musk (1-1) 5-7 (4 pts. for Musk./1pt. for NS) for losing by less than 7 pts.).
Pool B:
DS-B (1-0-1) v. Brookfield (1-0-1) 10-10 (0 pts. for pool standings--per the rules)
Vernon (2-0) v. Oak Creek 29-0 (0-2) (5 tries scored) (5pts. for pool standings)
Non-Conference Matches:
FDL v. KM -----[0 pts for conference standings -- NOT REPORTED]
Current Standings:
Conference A: (1) DS (10pts) (2) NS (6 pts.) (3) Muskego (4 pts.); (4) CMH (0pts.) KM (0pts).
Conference B: (1) Brookfield (5pts), Vernon (5pts.); (2) FDL (0 pts.); Oak Creek (0 pts.).
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Opening Weekend...
Last weekend was the season opener for Wisconsin Girls Rugby in the first season of having 2 pools. Pool A consists of DSHA-A side; North Shore; Kettle Moraine; Muskego and Catholic Memorial. Pool B consists of Vernon; Brookfield; Oak Creek; Fond du Lac and DSHA-B. Teams are seated in the pools based on standings from last Fall. The season consists of a 5 week regular season where teams play each team within thier pool and one cross-conference match. Only matches against pool opponents count toward pool rankings. Teams earn 4 points for a win; 2 points for a tie; 1 bonus point for scoring 4 or more tries; and 1 bonus point for losing by less than 7 points. Following the 5 week pool play, teams are slotted into brackets for a 3 week play off, culminating in the state finals on Oct. 28 at Nagawaukee Park in Delafield where all teams will compete for the final state rankings.
So, after week one of pool play the results are as follows:
Pool A:
DSHA-A (1-0) vs. Muskego 59-0 (0-1) (5pts for pool standings)
KM (0-1) v. Northshore (1-0) 14-32 (5pts for pool standings)
Pool B:
DS-B (0-1) v. Vernon 5-25 (1-0) (0 pts. for conference standings--per the rules)
FDL (0-1) v. Brookfield 10-53 (1-0) (5pts. for conference standings for technical forfeit)
Non-Conference Matches:
CMH (1-0) v. Oak Creek 33-0 (0-1) (0 pts for conference standings)
Current Standings:
Conference A: DS and NS are tied for 1st(5pts. each) with a 3 way tie for second (CMH, Musk. and KM).
Conference B: Brookfield is #1 in it's conference -- since no one else has played a conference match with a 4-way tie for 2nd place
Posted by Dan at 8:24 AM 0 comments
Labels: match reports
So, after week one of pool play the results are as follows:
Pool A:
DSHA-A (1-0) vs. Muskego 59-0 (0-1) (5pts for pool standings)
KM (0-1) v. Northshore (1-0) 14-32 (5pts for pool standings)
Pool B:
DS-B (0-1) v. Vernon 5-25 (1-0) (0 pts. for conference standings--per the rules)
FDL (0-1) v. Brookfield 10-53 (1-0) (5pts. for conference standings for technical forfeit)
Non-Conference Matches:
CMH (1-0) v. Oak Creek 33-0 (0-1) (0 pts for conference standings)
Current Standings:
Conference A: DS and NS are tied for 1st(5pts. each) with a 3 way tie for second (CMH, Musk. and KM).
Conference B: Brookfield is #1 in it's conference -- since no one else has played a conference match with a 4-way tie for 2nd place
Posted by Dan at 8:24 AM 0 comments
Labels: match reports
Friday, July 20, 2007
From other blogs...
The Women's Rugby Review blog has a couple of posts of interest to the high school girls rugby community generally. This blog has a link to a video and link to the website of the Letchworh Rugby club in England that produced a promotional video for girls rugby. This might be a useful video for clubs to use when introducing rugby to a new community.
Also, the Women's Rugby Review noted that USA Rugby has announced that it will sponsor, for the first time, a high school girls rugby championship, which is scheduled to be held on May 24-26, 2008.
Also, the Women's Rugby Review noted that USA Rugby has announced that it will sponsor, for the first time, a high school girls rugby championship, which is scheduled to be held on May 24-26, 2008.
Friday, June 15, 2007
More on the wee ones...
I just want to put out there that the Oconomowoc and Waukesha park and recreation programs are both off to good starts with youth (1st-4th grade) rugby. The Oconomowoc program is in its 3 week this Saturday and has 12 participants. The Waukesha program has 15 registered participants, but on the first day 22 kids showed up.
It has been great to see the rugby community pull together to offer this program to area youth. While some of the participants are children of rugby players, a majority of kids and their families are being exposed to rugby for the first time and having a very positive experience.
It has been great to see the rugby community pull together to offer this program to area youth. While some of the participants are children of rugby players, a majority of kids and their families are being exposed to rugby for the first time and having a very positive experience.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
New Girls Play-Off Format..
The Wisconsin Girls Rugby teams have divided into 2 pools or conferences for the Fall Season play. All teams will play a five week season, which includes playing each team in the pool and one non-conference match against the ranked team in the opposing pool. At the end of the five weeks of pool play, the top 8 teams will enter into a three week play-off. All the final matches will be held on October 28, 2007 at Nagawaukee park. Final rankings from the Fall season are used to determine who advances to the Midwest in the Spring and Pool seedings for the following fall.
Brookfield Bruiser's site posted a handy summary of the new play-off system on their website. Right below the Bruiser's schedule, the new pools are listed and if you click on the link to State Playoff Schedule, it will take you to the brackets for the last three weeks of the season.
Brookfield Bruiser's site posted a handy summary of the new play-off system on their website. Right below the Bruiser's schedule, the new pools are listed and if you click on the link to State Playoff Schedule, it will take you to the brackets for the last three weeks of the season.
Monday, June 4, 2007
Picture of the Week
A Fond du Lac (FDL) defender takes down a Brookfield ball carrier during Brookfield's 23-12 victory over FDL on June 2, 2007. I think this was the actual last game of the Spring 2007 season. FDL played a strong game, keeping Brookfield on the defensive for much of the fist half. However, Brookfield triumphed with speed out-wide and relentless goal-line defense. It is going to be an interesting fall with so many teams beginning to hit their stride.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Youth Rugby Update
This is an update about Tag Rugby programs this summer for youth (1st to 8th Grade) Wisconsin:
In the City of Waukesha, the particulars are as follows:
DATES: Saturday Mornings, from June 9 through June 30;
TIME: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (the hour goes quickly)
LOCATION: Mindiola Park (off of Sunset Dr. in Waukesha)
The program has 12 participants registered, but we are hoping for a bump in the final week of a few more kids. Their website is www.ci.waukehsa.wi.us. and I believe they are still accepting registrations.
The City of Oconomowoc is also running a four week program, running saturday mornings, starting on June 2, 2009. Information is available on thier website, www.oconomowocusa.com.
The West Bend Boys and Girls Club will be running a tag rugby program for elementary school aged children. They will be holding a high interest day on June 23, 2007, starting at 2:00 p.m.
Fond du Lac Rugby Club, in conjunction with the Fond du Lac park and recreation department is holding tag rugby programs, starting July 30 for children in grades 4-8. More information is available at www.fdlrugby.com..
All of these programs are co-ed and are a great introduction to rugby for players (and parent) with no experience or knoweldge about rugby.
If anyone knows about other programs, plesae leave a comment and spread the word.
In the City of Waukesha, the particulars are as follows:
DATES: Saturday Mornings, from June 9 through June 30;
TIME: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (the hour goes quickly)
LOCATION: Mindiola Park (off of Sunset Dr. in Waukesha)
The program has 12 participants registered, but we are hoping for a bump in the final week of a few more kids. Their website is www.ci.waukehsa.wi.us. and I believe they are still accepting registrations.
The City of Oconomowoc is also running a four week program, running saturday mornings, starting on June 2, 2009. Information is available on thier website, www.oconomowocusa.com.
The West Bend Boys and Girls Club will be running a tag rugby program for elementary school aged children. They will be holding a high interest day on June 23, 2007, starting at 2:00 p.m.
Fond du Lac Rugby Club, in conjunction with the Fond du Lac park and recreation department is holding tag rugby programs, starting July 30 for children in grades 4-8. More information is available at www.fdlrugby.com..
All of these programs are co-ed and are a great introduction to rugby for players (and parent) with no experience or knoweldge about rugby.
If anyone knows about other programs, plesae leave a comment and spread the word.
Friday, May 25, 2007
The last games of Spring..
CMH travels to take on Northshore at Friedenfeld Park in Germantown at noon this Saturday.
On Wenesday, May 23, Brookfield defeated Muskego 20-0 and Muskego-B downed CMH-B (score unreported).
I think next week will wrap-up everyone's Spring season. KM is hosting an alumnae game June 6, 2007 at 5:00. KM's alumnae game is a real tribute to the success of that program. Last year, the Alumnae showed up in force and KM played a full 15-a-side game. While the alumnae dominated play the first half using the wisdom of experience, age caught up with the alumnae in the second half. Good luck KM alum!
Also up-coming is Brookfield's and Fond du Lac's final game. They meet on June 2, 2007 at Minooka Park at 1:00 p.m.
I am pretty sure that these games are the wrap-up for the Spring Season for anyone that wants to get out and see one final game before the summer.
On Wenesday, May 23, Brookfield defeated Muskego 20-0 and Muskego-B downed CMH-B (score unreported).
I think next week will wrap-up everyone's Spring season. KM is hosting an alumnae game June 6, 2007 at 5:00. KM's alumnae game is a real tribute to the success of that program. Last year, the Alumnae showed up in force and KM played a full 15-a-side game. While the alumnae dominated play the first half using the wisdom of experience, age caught up with the alumnae in the second half. Good luck KM alum!
Also up-coming is Brookfield's and Fond du Lac's final game. They meet on June 2, 2007 at Minooka Park at 1:00 p.m.
I am pretty sure that these games are the wrap-up for the Spring Season for anyone that wants to get out and see one final game before the summer.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Youth (6-8 year old) Rugby begins...
On May 21, 2007, The Oconomowoc Park and Recreation Department held its first high interest day for 1st and 2nd grade students. Six little tykes showed up and learned about tag rugby from two Kettle Moraine Girls RFC players. By the end of the hour, these little kids became little ruggers, and played a 3 v. 3 game of tag rugby.
Oconomowoc and Waukesha Park and recreation departments are both sponsoring co-ed tag rugby programs this June. Hopefully these programs will grow and expand in the fall as well, depending upon support and interest.
Oconomowoc and Waukesha Park and recreation departments are both sponsoring co-ed tag rugby programs this June. Hopefully these programs will grow and expand in the fall as well, depending upon support and interest.
Announcing our newest arrival ....
Oak Creek RFC. The Wisconsin Girls Rugby Conference welcomes this new addition. The OC is already gearing up and training for the Fall 2007 season under the auspices of Tony Oliver, former head coach for Northshore RFC. Check out thier website to great links to rugby promotional videos.
Northshore is continuing with a new coaching staff, Katie Ehr and Pam Waters. Katie and Pam formerly coached the Whitefish Bay RFC which merged with Northshore in the Spring of 2007. Katie and Pam are alumnae of the DSHA RFC. As the Girls Rugby league grows and ages, we are looking forward to more alumnae, from all our teams, returning to coach, referee and help-out.
As always, girls interested about joining (or starting) a team can follow the links on the side of this page to their local club and contact the coach. All teams (except DSHA and Catholic Memorial) accept high school age players from their local community or neighboring communities.
Northshore is continuing with a new coaching staff, Katie Ehr and Pam Waters. Katie and Pam formerly coached the Whitefish Bay RFC which merged with Northshore in the Spring of 2007. Katie and Pam are alumnae of the DSHA RFC. As the Girls Rugby league grows and ages, we are looking forward to more alumnae, from all our teams, returning to coach, referee and help-out.
As always, girls interested about joining (or starting) a team can follow the links on the side of this page to their local club and contact the coach. All teams (except DSHA and Catholic Memorial) accept high school age players from their local community or neighboring communities.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
If you missed the NIT final...
Time Warner Sports (Channel 32) will be broadcasting (and re-broadcasting) the final game of the Girls Rugby High School NIT all week. A complete schedule is available on the Time Warner Site . The first air-time is May 23, 2007 at 6:30 and 8:00 p.m. The station is airing the games on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, as well.
If you didn't know Time Warner has been broadcasting some of the games for the West Side Harlequins on this station as well. This was a really nice feature. Unfortunately, Time Warner does not carry Setanta Sports, so I'm going to have to drop cable before the World Cup starts this Fall. But, in the meantime, its nice to see the local teams get air time.
If you didn't know Time Warner has been broadcasting some of the games for the West Side Harlequins on this station as well. This was a really nice feature. Unfortunately, Time Warner does not carry Setanta Sports, so I'm going to have to drop cable before the World Cup starts this Fall. But, in the meantime, its nice to see the local teams get air time.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Picture of the Week
A Vernon ball carrier swims up-stream against Brookfield defenders during the May 14, 2007 match-up between these two Waukesha County rivals.
And the winners are...
Check out the National Invitational Tournament website for the full results and standings. As this is the Wisconsin U19 site, we have to say congratulations to DSHA (#1) for thier 13-6 victory over Kent WA in the Cup final AND Vernon who placed 3d with a hard fought (17-10) victory over Summit (CO). I know DSHA gets a lot of ink, but Vernon should be very proud of this 3rd place finish in a difficult tournament.
Brookfield placed 4th after a difficult loss to City Honors/Genesse (NY) 25-12 in the 3rd place math of the Plate division. The Plate division ended with an all Oregon final as West Linn downed Canby 24-10.
I didn't get to see as many matches as I would have liked, but the matches I saw were exciting. The final round of the Cup division was a particularly close game. The DSHA/Kent game saw some great pressure and defense by both teams. After trading penalty kicks early in the first half, with the score 3-3, the match was at issue for sixty-minutes. Both teams had some tough goal line stands. In the end, DSHA punched through two unconverted tries to win the day, but not without a fight.
Now it's time for all the other teams in Wisconsin to start preparing for the Fall and a chance to knock DSHA out of the running before the next National Tournament.
Brookfield placed 4th after a difficult loss to City Honors/Genesse (NY) 25-12 in the 3rd place math of the Plate division. The Plate division ended with an all Oregon final as West Linn downed Canby 24-10.
I didn't get to see as many matches as I would have liked, but the matches I saw were exciting. The final round of the Cup division was a particularly close game. The DSHA/Kent game saw some great pressure and defense by both teams. After trading penalty kicks early in the first half, with the score 3-3, the match was at issue for sixty-minutes. Both teams had some tough goal line stands. In the end, DSHA punched through two unconverted tries to win the day, but not without a fight.
Now it's time for all the other teams in Wisconsin to start preparing for the Fall and a chance to knock DSHA out of the running before the next National Tournament.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Results from Spring of 2007...so far
This is a list of all the reported scores for the WI Girls teams from the Spring 2007. Keep in mind that the spring season is a non-conference season, so not all scores get reported. (I know I am missing some games in here..so if anyone wants to fill me in that would be great). Also, these reports exclude the games played by Northshore on its tour to California and DSHA, Vernon and Brookfield at the Mid-west Tournament and NIT. (However, if you follow the links to the relevant websites, all the tournament scores are available).
But, given those limitations, here is a summary of the spring season to date (winning team in bold)
Pre-Season
Northshore Trip to Littleton International Tournament.
Week 1
DSHA v. Northshore 20-10
Verson v. DSHA-B (score not reported)
Week 2
DSHA v. Brookfield 63-0
DSHA-B v. Brookfield-B 24-0
Wayzata (MN) v. CMH 17-14
East Metro v. CMH B 24-0
Week 3
Vernon v. KM 32-5
Vernon-B v. Brookfield 5-12
Northshore v. Muskego 15-5
Week 4
Vernon v. Fond du Lac 25-12
DSHA v. Fond du Lac 39-0
CMH v. St. Charles (IL) 51-0
CMH-B v. St. Charles (IL) 10-12
Northshore v. KM 19-0
Northshore v. Brookfield 0-0
KM v. Brookfield 5-12
Week 5
Muskego v. Vernon 5-39
Brookfield v. CMH 19-14
Brookfield-B v. CMH-B 5-47
Northshore v. Vernon 0-10
CMH v. Muskego 45-5
Week 6
Midwest Girls Rugby Chapionship.
Week 7
Vernon v. Brookfield 59-5
KM v. CMH 32-21
Week 8
National Invitational Tournament.
Those are the scores that I have for matches played up until May 18 for the Spring 2007 season... If I missed reported (or missed) any scores, let me know. I will admit that because of the shifting dates for games this season the week by week break-down is really just to make the list more reader-friendly.
But, given those limitations, here is a summary of the spring season to date (winning team in bold)
Pre-Season
Northshore Trip to Littleton International Tournament.
Week 1
DSHA v. Northshore 20-10
Verson v. DSHA-B (score not reported)
Week 2
DSHA v. Brookfield 63-0
DSHA-B v. Brookfield-B 24-0
Wayzata (MN) v. CMH 17-14
East Metro v. CMH B 24-0
Week 3
Vernon v. KM 32-5
Vernon-B v. Brookfield 5-12
Northshore v. Muskego 15-5
Week 4
Vernon v. Fond du Lac 25-12
DSHA v. Fond du Lac 39-0
CMH v. St. Charles (IL) 51-0
CMH-B v. St. Charles (IL) 10-12
Northshore v. KM 19-0
Northshore v. Brookfield 0-0
KM v. Brookfield 5-12
Week 5
Muskego v. Vernon 5-39
Brookfield v. CMH 19-14
Brookfield-B v. CMH-B 5-47
Northshore v. Vernon 0-10
CMH v. Muskego 45-5
Week 6
Midwest Girls Rugby Chapionship.
Week 7
Vernon v. Brookfield 59-5
KM v. CMH 32-21
Week 8
National Invitational Tournament.
Those are the scores that I have for matches played up until May 18 for the Spring 2007 season... If I missed reported (or missed) any scores, let me know. I will admit that because of the shifting dates for games this season the week by week break-down is really just to make the list more reader-friendly.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
The details for the Girls Rugby NIT...
are available on the tournament's official website. The site includes team rosters and details about the day including times, locations directions etc....
While I will certainly be rooting for our Wisconsin teams, I am excited to see some of the perennial power-houses compete (like Kent and Summit) who have been competing in the NIT for year. In addition, there are some new teams from states that, to my knowledge, haven't attended the NIT in the past (like the Lady Marauders from Maryland and Oconee from Georgia). Check out the NIT website for full details about the teams coming to compete.
Good luck to all the teams! I'm looking forward to watching some competitive rugby this weekend.
While I will certainly be rooting for our Wisconsin teams, I am excited to see some of the perennial power-houses compete (like Kent and Summit) who have been competing in the NIT for year. In addition, there are some new teams from states that, to my knowledge, haven't attended the NIT in the past (like the Lady Marauders from Maryland and Oconee from Georgia). Check out the NIT website for full details about the teams coming to compete.
Good luck to all the teams! I'm looking forward to watching some competitive rugby this weekend.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Press for Nationals and DSHA
The Journal sentinel ran an article yesterday on DSHA and the upcoming National Tournamnet which is taking place this weekend in Franklin Wisconsin. DSHA certainly remains the team to beat here in Wisconsin and nationally. This should be a great event, with 16 teams from across the country competing in two divisions.
This should be a great opportunity for anyone in Wisconsin who is interested in seeing high school girls rugby at its finest.
This should be a great opportunity for anyone in Wisconsin who is interested in seeing high school girls rugby at its finest.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Picture of the Week
A Catholic Memorial defender goes in for the tackle against Muskego this past weekend. The Crusaders downed Muskego 45-5 but faced stiff competition from Muskego's skillful use of the maul and strong forward play.
Midwest Girls Rugby Chapionships
It has been awhile since this blog has been updated. I've been swamped and a lots has been going on. But, here are some quick updates. Brookfield won a very close 3-way tournament to qualify as the #3 Wisconsin seed to represent Wisconsin in the open bracket at the Midwest Tournament. The 3-way tournament came down to a tie between Brookfield and Northshore witht he 3rd place finish decided by penalty kicks.
While I owe a whole entry to that event because it was so exciting, the big news is the results from the Midwest Girls Rugby Chapionship. Vernon and DSHA represented Wisconsin in the Tournament and both teams progressed through the brackets undefeated. In the final round, DSHA defeated Vernon 36-0 in the all Wisconsin finals. Congratulations to our Wisconsin teams on another outstanding Midwest Tournament.
We are all looking forward to a chance to cheer on our Wisconssin clubs in the National Tournament on May 19-20th here in Franklin, WI.
While I owe a whole entry to that event because it was so exciting, the big news is the results from the Midwest Girls Rugby Chapionship. Vernon and DSHA represented Wisconsin in the Tournament and both teams progressed through the brackets undefeated. In the final round, DSHA defeated Vernon 36-0 in the all Wisconsin finals. Congratulations to our Wisconsin teams on another outstanding Midwest Tournament.
We are all looking forward to a chance to cheer on our Wisconssin clubs in the National Tournament on May 19-20th here in Franklin, WI.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Deciding Wisconsin's #3 Seed
Last season ended in a three way tie for 3rd place between Northshore, Brookfield and Kettle Moraine, with all three teams having a 4 and 3 record. The tie occurred because Brookfield defeated KM 29-10; Norhshore defeated Brookfield 30-7; and KM defeated Northshore 15-14.
The application of the experiminatal point system would have ranked Northrhore 3rd, Brookfield 4th, and KM 5th, but the rule was not in place at the start of the season. The pont system awards a team 4 ponits for a win; 2 points for a tie, and 1 bonus point for scoring 4 or more trys in a match; and 1 bonus point for losing by less than 7 points.
In the spirit of sportsmanship and competition, the coaches agreed to a one day, round-robin tournament this spring to see who will be Wisconsin's #3 seed. The games will be held at Nagawaukee Park, April 22, starting at 11:00 a.m. The winning team will emerge with bragging rights and the will represent Wisconsin in the open division of the Midwest tournament.
It is going to be an exciting day of rugby at Nagawaukee.
The application of the experiminatal point system would have ranked Northrhore 3rd, Brookfield 4th, and KM 5th, but the rule was not in place at the start of the season. The pont system awards a team 4 ponits for a win; 2 points for a tie, and 1 bonus point for scoring 4 or more trys in a match; and 1 bonus point for losing by less than 7 points.
In the spirit of sportsmanship and competition, the coaches agreed to a one day, round-robin tournament this spring to see who will be Wisconsin's #3 seed. The games will be held at Nagawaukee Park, April 22, starting at 11:00 a.m. The winning team will emerge with bragging rights and the will represent Wisconsin in the open division of the Midwest tournament.
It is going to be an exciting day of rugby at Nagawaukee.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Even more on varsity girls rugby...
Given that it's spring break for most teams and this varsity status question has generated a lot of interesting responses, let's kick it around a little more. I decided to start a new post and ,link back to the post here to draw attention to the fact that the comments are on-going.
One commentator had some positive things to say which I think are worth repeating:
I agree with these points, and would add that if all individuals involved came to the table around a particular sport with these beliefs, there would be a lot of positive results. The attitude of the players, rugby coaches, parents, as well as school leaders and coaches of existing sports, is essential to moving forward (as the commentator appropriately coined it).
I have one more thought (for now), based on a conversation I had recently with a school administrator. Club sports should not come to the table demanding varsity status and demanding resources. This only creates conflict or potential conflict between the school community and the club. Rather, club sports, such as rugby, should come to the table and offer something of value to the school community, i.e. a new opportunity for student involvement and a set of supportive volunteers.
At this early stage in the game, having a positive school-club relationship (which allows teams to form an identity around the school and increases recruiting/publicity opportunities) far outweighs any short term gain from having varsity status. Varsity status will come over time as a result of overall growth in the sport, and not through pressure by individual clubs on individual school athletic programs.
I would note that other models, i.e. the community based model, have been very successful. Vernon has built its program through its park and recreation department. The focus on varsity/school based rugby should not overshadow the fact that local park and recreation departments have been and continue to be a real resource for the girls rugby clubs here in Wisconsin.
One commentator had some positive things to say which I think are worth repeating:
There are no negatives to interscholastic athletics...none.
Providing opportunities for student-athlete enrichment never has a down side.
Parents, BOE, AD's, coaches, teachers, community leaders will find a way if they have the students best interest as their focus
I agree with these points, and would add that if all individuals involved came to the table around a particular sport with these beliefs, there would be a lot of positive results. The attitude of the players, rugby coaches, parents, as well as school leaders and coaches of existing sports, is essential to moving forward (as the commentator appropriately coined it).
I have one more thought (for now), based on a conversation I had recently with a school administrator. Club sports should not come to the table demanding varsity status and demanding resources. This only creates conflict or potential conflict between the school community and the club. Rather, club sports, such as rugby, should come to the table and offer something of value to the school community, i.e. a new opportunity for student involvement and a set of supportive volunteers.
At this early stage in the game, having a positive school-club relationship (which allows teams to form an identity around the school and increases recruiting/publicity opportunities) far outweighs any short term gain from having varsity status. Varsity status will come over time as a result of overall growth in the sport, and not through pressure by individual clubs on individual school athletic programs.
I would note that other models, i.e. the community based model, have been very successful. Vernon has built its program through its park and recreation department. The focus on varsity/school based rugby should not overshadow the fact that local park and recreation departments have been and continue to be a real resource for the girls rugby clubs here in Wisconsin.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Vernon.... still a strong #2
As reported by the sir, Vernon defeated Kettle Moraine (a #3 finisher last season) this past Friday, 32-5. Vernon demonstrated that it's #2 position from the Fall is well-deserved as it heads towards the Mid-West Tournament as Wisconsin's number 2 seed.
Is it possible that Wisconsin will repeat last year's performance where Wisconsin teams captuered the #1 (DSHA) and #2 (Vernon Park) spots in the Midwest Tournament?
Wisconsin should be proud of its repeated success at the Midwest Tournament and the ability of both its #1 and #2 seed to advance in the tournement brackets.
Is it possible that Wisconsin will repeat last year's performance where Wisconsin teams captuered the #1 (DSHA) and #2 (Vernon Park) spots in the Midwest Tournament?
Wisconsin should be proud of its repeated success at the Midwest Tournament and the ability of both its #1 and #2 seed to advance in the tournement brackets.
Monday, April 9, 2007
More on Varsity Girls Rugby
I recieved a comment over the weekend regarding the March 27, 2007 post on Varsity Women's rugby. Link to original post and comment. Unfortuneately, the anonymous commenter missed the point of the original blog and made several unfortunate distortions of my position.
First, the commenter took the post as a slam on USA Rugby. However, the post actually cretids USA Rugby with initiating a serious conversation about how to bring about varsity rugby.
Second, my comments were not oppossed to varsity status, rather a caution that varsity status is not an automatic solution to rugby's problem. In fact, the commenter and I seem to agree that there would be benefits to varsity status, i.e. legitimacy within the school, access to another, well organized sports structure and more exposure. (In fact, the orignal post pointed out that a two tier club/varisty stem "may not be a bad result if it means more exposure to rugby for everyone.").
Third, I think the original post indicates, and I would stil maintain, that capacity is a real issue for rugby community at this stage of the game. Creating "varsity" programs assumes that we can find enough coaches, referees, (and not to mention players) to have that happen. These resources need to be developed locally. The question is not "how do we get varsity status?" but "how do we build capacity?"
Ultimately, if rugby achieves varsity status it will be because of (and not in spite of) the success of the current club teams. Only when our club teams are strong and regularly drawing players, will there be enough evidence to encourage school districts to sponsor varsity programs. No school or athlectic association is going to "give" varsity status to rugby, varsity status must be earned by building a strong base.
Finally, I want to comment on the rugby volunteer/ownership comment. For rugby to grow, each participant (parent, player, coaches, etc..) must "own" rugby. Without investment in the process, rugby won't grow. However, I would agree with the commenter that this sense of "ownership" is dangerous if it leads to the exclusion of "non-rugby" people --- a term I dislike. Rugby needs to do a better job at brining people in and showing them that this is a legitimate, fun, and exciting sport for all involved.
First, the commenter took the post as a slam on USA Rugby. However, the post actually cretids USA Rugby with initiating a serious conversation about how to bring about varsity rugby.
Second, my comments were not oppossed to varsity status, rather a caution that varsity status is not an automatic solution to rugby's problem. In fact, the commenter and I seem to agree that there would be benefits to varsity status, i.e. legitimacy within the school, access to another, well organized sports structure and more exposure. (In fact, the orignal post pointed out that a two tier club/varisty stem "may not be a bad result if it means more exposure to rugby for everyone.").
Third, I think the original post indicates, and I would stil maintain, that capacity is a real issue for rugby community at this stage of the game. Creating "varsity" programs assumes that we can find enough coaches, referees, (and not to mention players) to have that happen. These resources need to be developed locally. The question is not "how do we get varsity status?" but "how do we build capacity?"
Ultimately, if rugby achieves varsity status it will be because of (and not in spite of) the success of the current club teams. Only when our club teams are strong and regularly drawing players, will there be enough evidence to encourage school districts to sponsor varsity programs. No school or athlectic association is going to "give" varsity status to rugby, varsity status must be earned by building a strong base.
Finally, I want to comment on the rugby volunteer/ownership comment. For rugby to grow, each participant (parent, player, coaches, etc..) must "own" rugby. Without investment in the process, rugby won't grow. However, I would agree with the commenter that this sense of "ownership" is dangerous if it leads to the exclusion of "non-rugby" people --- a term I dislike. Rugby needs to do a better job at brining people in and showing them that this is a legitimate, fun, and exciting sport for all involved.
Monday, April 2, 2007
A new up and coming powerhouse...
The spring is always an interesting season. The top teams from the Fall are preparing for runs at Midwest and National titles; there is no structure to the schedule; and teams are trying to train new players, build their base and prepare for the fall conference.
One score from this weekend made me stand up and take note.... Northsore v. Muskego (15-5).
Northsore placed 3rd in the fall and Muskego 6th. This past fall, Northshore downed Muskego 38-0. But rumor has it that Muskego has spent the winter recruiting and building this still young team which now fields 2 full sides. And it certainly seems the efforts have paid-off. Moreover, with Northore's recent success on tour in California, there is no doubt that Northshore put up a fight this past weekend. By narrowing the point difference to 10 points, Muskego is clearly throwing its hat in the ring to be in the top half of the conference this fall.
Muskego may just be the up-and-coming team for the fall conference. As always, the questions for the fall...who is losing seniors and how many?
One score from this weekend made me stand up and take note.... Northsore v. Muskego (15-5).
Northsore placed 3rd in the fall and Muskego 6th. This past fall, Northshore downed Muskego 38-0. But rumor has it that Muskego has spent the winter recruiting and building this still young team which now fields 2 full sides. And it certainly seems the efforts have paid-off. Moreover, with Northore's recent success on tour in California, there is no doubt that Northshore put up a fight this past weekend. By narrowing the point difference to 10 points, Muskego is clearly throwing its hat in the ring to be in the top half of the conference this fall.
Muskego may just be the up-and-coming team for the fall conference. As always, the questions for the fall...who is losing seniors and how many?
Friday, March 30, 2007
Picture of the week
Brookfield on the attack with a DS defender closing in for the tackle from thier Fall matchup.
Brookfield takes on DSHA this Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at Dretzka Park to see if it can topple the 3 time national champions. Brookfield is one of the fastest growing clubs in Wisconsin and despite being relatively new (founded in 2004) tied for 3rd place in Fall 2006 season with Kettle Moraine (2000) and Northshore (1998), two of the oldest and most established clubs in the conference.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Plugging holes with our thumbs....
If there is one thing in the rugby community which we know for certain, there are not enough sirs. In the girls high school community, we've had difficulty, at times, recruiting coaches despite a demand for a team from player. In other areas, some teams struggle with player recruitment. In response to each of these crises, individuals or groups make valiant attempts to fill the particular need, like the picture of the little dutch boy sticking his thumb in the damn to save Holland from flooding.
In the meantime, even if one crisis is averted, putting our collective thumbs in the wall does little to stem the rising tides of problems behind the levy.
Here is Wisconsin, I think we've done pretty well at the U19 level in forming new teams and leagues. The boys have 2 separate conferences, and the girls have a number of very strong clubs with at least 2 sides. But, we cannot rest on our successes. Wisconsin has a grass-roots tradition to brag about. But, as we grow our U19 program, we increasingly stress the resources (fields, referees, coaches) to the limit.
Here is my off-the-cuff proposal. Let's create a marketing committee within the Union which pulls together members from all the various interest groups (referees, coaches, men's, women's, collegiate, boys, girls and youth programs). The purpose of this committee will be to market the sport of rugby in Wisconsin, regardless of level. My theory is that a broad based marketing campaign would help rugby at all levels. We in the rugby community already believe this is a great sport. Let's create the buzz in the rest of the community, so that non-rugby players begin to ask questions: Where can I watch a game? How do I become a sir? Where can I play rugby?
All our clubs can benefit from unified marketing, which actively includes all levels of rugby, and brands rugby as sport for the whole community.
In the meantime, even if one crisis is averted, putting our collective thumbs in the wall does little to stem the rising tides of problems behind the levy.
Here is Wisconsin, I think we've done pretty well at the U19 level in forming new teams and leagues. The boys have 2 separate conferences, and the girls have a number of very strong clubs with at least 2 sides. But, we cannot rest on our successes. Wisconsin has a grass-roots tradition to brag about. But, as we grow our U19 program, we increasingly stress the resources (fields, referees, coaches) to the limit.
Here is my off-the-cuff proposal. Let's create a marketing committee within the Union which pulls together members from all the various interest groups (referees, coaches, men's, women's, collegiate, boys, girls and youth programs). The purpose of this committee will be to market the sport of rugby in Wisconsin, regardless of level. My theory is that a broad based marketing campaign would help rugby at all levels. We in the rugby community already believe this is a great sport. Let's create the buzz in the rest of the community, so that non-rugby players begin to ask questions: Where can I watch a game? How do I become a sir? Where can I play rugby?
All our clubs can benefit from unified marketing, which actively includes all levels of rugby, and brands rugby as sport for the whole community.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Picture of the Week
This week's picture of a week is from Kettle Moraine's 2006 tour to California. This picture of the the KM pack includes Katie McCormick, now a U19 Eagle currently on tour in England, as strong-side flanker.For more information on the U19 tour, check out the U19 girls rugby blog (link on side of page) or the USA Rugby home page.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Varsity Status for Girls Rugby
The new USA Rugby website (http://www.usarugby.org/) has a section devoted to USARFU's push for varsity status for high school girls rugby. This is an off-shoot of the Union's push for NCAA status for Collegiate Women's rugby. As a coach of a high school girls' team, I applaud the dedication of resources to promoting the women's game. But, I have concerns about the consequences.
The WIAA, Wisconsin's high school athletics governing body, has its own set of regulations governing high school sports. This may lead to inconsistencies between the current practice here in Wisconsin (i.e. a Fall season for rankings within the state and a Spring season for touring and participation in Mid-west/National tournaments). This type of system could be eliminated by WIAA rules which may prohibit out-of-season play.
In my mind, here are advantages to seeking WIAA membership:
The WIAA, Wisconsin's high school athletics governing body, has its own set of regulations governing high school sports. This may lead to inconsistencies between the current practice here in Wisconsin (i.e. a Fall season for rankings within the state and a Spring season for touring and participation in Mid-west/National tournaments). This type of system could be eliminated by WIAA rules which may prohibit out-of-season play.
In my mind, here are advantages to seeking WIAA membership:
- Part of a pre-existing structure to help organize/standardized administration;
- Legitimacy within schools to facilitate recruiting players;
- Access to school resources and funding.
However, there are some serious draw backs:
- Inability of high school teams to compete in territorial and national competitions;
- WIAA discourages (but does allow) multi-school teams for areas where no team is available;
- The team becomes linked to school district budgetary needs (e.g., the Waukesha School District is thinking about eliminating ALL extra-curricular activities and sports ).
USA rugby appears to think that high school varsity status is a natural result of or beneficial to its goal of NCAA status for collegiate women. However, looking at the soccer model suggests that varsity status is not necessary as a feeder system for collegiate programs. The best recruits for soccer (at least in this area) come not from high school varsity squads, but from community based select side teams. Varsity soccer is usually a step down from the club soccer.
By pushing an agenda of varsity rugby for high school girls, we are ultimately pushing towards a two tier system (club rugby and varsity rugby) similar to soccer. This may not be a bad result if it means more exposure to rugby for everyone. However, this presupposes that we in the rugby community have the capacity to support this level of involvement in terms of qualified referees and coaches. On the other hand, if the push for varsity status back-fires, varsity girls rugby within a WIAA structure could eliminate the more flexible club rugby. This would be a real loss to the club rugby programs because national tournaments and touring opportunities have been a real recruiting tool for local teams. Perhaps the better question is not how do we push for varsity status, but how do we collectively build support to grow the current club system? What do we need to grow high school rugby?
I would suggest that the answers will vary from state to state. Now that USARFU has broached this important subject, it is up to local clubs to carry on the dialouge and find solutions that work for local communities.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Wisconsin participation in USA U19 Tour
The USA U19 Womens' Rugby blog reported today that the National U19 team is setting out on its 2007 tour of England. Wisconsin's high school players, alumnae and coaches have historically had a strong presence on the national squad. This year Katie McCormick, a former player from Kettle Moraine Girls RFC and current UWM player is on the squad. In addition, Jeff Noe, the coach of Kettle Moraine Girls RFC is on tour as the team manager.
Congratulations to our local players!
Congratulations to our local players!
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Congratulations Northshore!
Northshore proved its mettle this weekend by winning the Fullerton International Rugby Tournament in California over the St. Patrick's day weekend. Wisconsin should be impressed by, and proud of, Northosore's success. Here's the coach's description of Northosre's progress in the tournament:
It was an awesome weekend!!!! Yes, we won the tournament!!!
Our touring group was 20 girls but the day before we left 4 had to pull out, because they came down with that ugly flue that was going around, so we traveled light with only 16 girls.
In the very first game my wing broke her arm so we were down to 15 for the rest of the tournament. Before each game the referee would stop by and ask that the subs check in through the table at the side of the field before they would be aloud on the field. My response to this was: "There is no need for that Sir, what you have on the field is what you have". They usually thought I was joking.Saturday:
Game 1: Northshore Highlanders vs. Coburg East Comets from Ontario Canada 19
- 5 (We scored 3 tries)Game 2: Northshore Highlanders vs. Cantwell from California 47 - 3 (We scored 7
tries)
Sunday:Semi-Final: Northshore Highlanders vs. Fullerton Lady Lions from California (Hosting Team) 5 - 0
Final: Northshore Highlanders vs. Surrey Eagles from British Columbia 5 - 0
The girls wanted it really badly and that made the difference. Of the 15 we came home with one broken nose, one with a double hairline fracture in her foot and one with a dislocated finger, which might be broken, she was going in for x-rays today. The rest was all black and blue from the bruises and there was some really nice grass burns, but winning made up for it.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Picture of the week...
In honor of Northoshore's (red, white and black uniforms) trip to Fullerton for the International Youth Tournament, here is a picture from the 2006 trip for picture of the week.Building Teams...
I learned the other day that one of our Wisconsin high school girls teams won't have the numbers to play its scheduled games this season. Hopefully, this is a temporary set back. However, its worth asking some fundamental questions about the obstacles that teams have had to either sustained growth or maintaining sufficient numbers for a side and what types of strategies are important in overcoming those obstacles.
Based on conversations I have had with coaches, observations of various team structures, and personal experience, I think the number 1 obstacle to maintaining a U19 girls team is recruitment. It appears that once a player has a game or two under their belt, the majority of players (and their parents) really come to love the sport. So, what are the recruitment obstacles? Why do some teams succeed in finding numbers and others do not?
Based on conversations I have had with coaches, observations of various team structures, and personal experience, I think the number 1 obstacle to maintaining a U19 girls team is recruitment. It appears that once a player has a game or two under their belt, the majority of players (and their parents) really come to love the sport. So, what are the recruitment obstacles? Why do some teams succeed in finding numbers and others do not?
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Coaching Girls...
Given that this is a blog about Wisconsin's U19 girls clubs, I thought readers might be interested in this link, about coaching teenage girls, from another rugby blog. Here's the link: http://coachingrugby.blogspot.com/2007/02/how-to-coach-teenage-girls-your.html#links
Good luck to Northshore...
...as they head-off today to California to participate in the Fullerton International Youth Rugby Tournament. I am sure Northshore will do Wisconsin proud!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Youth Rugby Opportunities
I just wanted to put out a quick post of upcoming and planned youth programs in Wisconsin (by which I mean non-contact programs for U6-U14 aged players):
- May 9, 2007: City of Waukesha, Rugby High Interest Day for grades 1-4. (more information forthcoming)
- June 5-21, 2007: Catholic Memorial High School, Rugby Camp for children entering grades 6-8. Information available at the Catholic Memorial Webiste (follow the link on side of this page and clik on summer camp information);
- Saturdays in June, 2007: City of Waukesha, Rugby Camp for children in grades 1-4. (More information forthcoming).
- Program details for the 2007-2008 tag rugby league for players grades 1-4 and a "Little Rugby Academy" for players in grades K4 and K5 can be found at wisconsinruggers.com. Registration Fall 2007 K-4 programs can be picked up at the Town of Brookfield (http://www.townofbrookfield.com/) and on line at Wisconsinruggers.com.
If you know anyone who might be interested in either participating or creating a youth rugby program in Wisconsin, please pass along this information.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Saturday's A Rugby Day: "Waste your money and you're only out of money, but waste your time and you've lost a part of your life."
Saturday's A Rugby Day: "Waste your money and you're only out of money, but waste your time and you've lost a part of your life.".... Blondie raises some good questions about finances for premier level rugby clubs. I would point out two possible alternatives for financing club rugby, which are not mutually exclusive: (1) the all inclusive club (U6-Senior Men and Women) in one club; and (2) the semi-professionalizing of the team (by which I mean defraying costs, not necessarily paying players). Without 1, you wouldn't have the fan base for step 2. If the rugby community starts building an infrastructure of community wide teams (i.e. involving all levels of play and not just one aspect (i.e. men's/women's/high school), from the ground up, I think there is the potential to have these community wide teams support senior level play, by providing resources and a fan base.
If you look at the tax returns of local soccer associations, these organizations are bringing in $150 to $500K. These associations have the resources to buy fields, pay coaches, and develop players from the youngest levels. Think what a club could do if it had these kinds of resources!
Not to mention, if we can have semi-professional teir-II arena footbal or women's footbal, don't you think the public would come watch some premier rugby? Perhaps we need to bring in general managers and community organizers for our local rugby clubs.
If you look at the tax returns of local soccer associations, these organizations are bringing in $150 to $500K. These associations have the resources to buy fields, pay coaches, and develop players from the youngest levels. Think what a club could do if it had these kinds of resources!
Not to mention, if we can have semi-professional teir-II arena footbal or women's footbal, don't you think the public would come watch some premier rugby? Perhaps we need to bring in general managers and community organizers for our local rugby clubs.
Not too far away...
USA Rugby is hosting a training camp for the U19 Women's National team. The camp will be held June 17-21 in Blaine, MN. With the camp so close to home, this is a great opportunity for Wisconsin players to compete for a spot on a national squad. Not to mention that the camp will be following the USA Rugby Women’s Senior and Under-23 All-Star 15s Championships -- so this is also an opportunity to watch some high level rugby . More information can be found at the USA Rugby website .
Friday, March 9, 2007
Picture of the Week...
I read on someone's blog that pictures are importnat. So I thought I would add one, to start of this new blog. This is a picture of DSHA RFC from the first Girls U19 "Nationals" in 1998. Can anyone name the other two teams?Once the season begins, you can email your pictures from your favorite Wisconsin U19 team and we will post the "winning" picture on the site.
The U19 Girls Season Opening Day
There is still quite a bit of snow on the ground as we move into March. However, opening day for the spring season a little more than a fortnight away. On the weekend of March 24-25, DSHA opens its season with games against both Northshore and Vernon. The Norrhshore/DS match should be an exciting Match up: DSHA will be attempting to shake out the winter cobwebs as it gears up for another run at a national title at the NIT in May. Meanwhile, Northshore will be returning from sunny California and its second appearance in the Fullerton Youth International Rugby Tournament. This warm-weather tournament should provide a good head start on spring-season training for Northshore who finished in a three-way tie for third place in the Fall 2006 regular season play with a 4-3 record. On March 25, DSHA-B side will take on number 2 ranked Vernon. This should prove to be a real test of the DS-B as it encounters Vernon's 7-1 record A side, which is gearing up for its run at a Midwest title, and perhaps more.
Keep posted as we track down the latest match reports.
Keep posted as we track down the latest match reports.
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