A Rugby Journey

Coaches return from Premiership Rugby Coaching Scholarship program in London.

A cohort of American rugby coaches were afforded an opportunity to work in conjunction with professional coaches in the U.K. over the course of a week-long immersion program from March 16th-24th, including two coaches from Wisconsin Girls Rugby.

"I was able to visit St Paul's Cathedral during our down time one afternoon," noted CMHS coach Wally.  "As I left and walked the streets of London, I saw a sign for St Bride's on Fleet Street.  The "Journalists' Church" struck me with special significance.  I looked down at my jersey and smiled at where i'd been led. "

"Before departing on the trip, I'd asked our CMH rugby players which rugby jersey I should wear on the day where we were asked to represent our hometown team.  I was torn with this decision.  The Memorial blue is colored by coaches, parents, and student-athletes who inspire and impress me each day.   My other choice was what my team knows as "The Foley Jersey":  the ragged Marquette University jersey I wore as a player, as did my old teammate and friend James Foley.  

     When James Foley, a freelance journalist, was kidnapped and murdered by ISIS in 2014 it became world news.  For myself it also changed what and how I  teach.  Foley's words in his letter home, that "When nothing else made sense, Faith did", became another chapter to another story in every class and every team I'm blessed to be a part of.   As I walked into St Bride's I was able to thank God for leading me to my first team, which in unimaginable ways lead me to this beautiful Church and moment through our CMH ruggers.  Fittingly, the choir practiced as I sat alone in a tiny, ancient church known as a place where journalists and travelers gather to pray."

Watching Harlequins training:

On the set of Rugby Tonight.

More info on the Premiership Rugby Scholarship Program (click here)

THE Annual JAMES FOLEY MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT takes place Saturday May 4th, 2019 at Bill Young Stadium.   Played in the spirit of friendly competition, there is no champion only participants.  JV Brackets begin at 8am, Varsity Brackets 11am.  Coaches touch game @12pm.

Requested donation of $75/side to cover medical&refs.
To register contact jwaliszewski@catholicmemorial.net