Motovational Rugby speech

Old School

I like these old rugby photos. They remind me of the tradition and sportsmanship that is the keystone to what makes Rugby such a great sport. While I can agree that the de-amaturization of the sport has made it more competitive and entertaining I fear that it will eventually go the way of the NFL and become the playground of the obnoxious and overpaid. Then again, American Football creates prima donna roles whereas Rugby is a more fluid and integrated sport.

Return to the Pitch

I had not realized how long it has been since I wrote on this blog. Too long I’m afraid. It is not like I haven’t had anything to say about rugby, life, or anything else. It is just like a lot of stuff I do; I put it on a shelf for a while to be pulled down and dusted off for later use. Well, later is now.
I was excited to follow up my inaugural rugby campaign with improved play during the fall season. Unfortunately, I was informed that the team was going to join forces with the Schaumburg Woodsmen out of Schaumburg IL about an hours drive from here. I can understand the logic behind the move. Combining the two teams would mean more skilled talent, greater depth, and more experience per position; thus making us collectively more competitive and hopefully more frequent winners. It would also mean more competition for me, and more importantly, a much longer drive to and from practice. I was not about to drive an hour plus to and from practice to be the second string waterboy. Still, I kept in touch with the team via Facebook and was interested to see how they fared.
It seemed that I was not the only one who had a hard time with the consolidation. A few weeks ago I got word via Facebook that the Gladiators were reconstituting here in North Lake County. We met at our favorite watering hole, Fatman’s, and began the strategic planning. Vinny, Mike, and John took the lead in recruiting and organizing the team; which seems to be a monster task. It felt good to hang out with them again and to be remembered, recognized, and genuinely welcomed. I have moved around so often and have been a homebody when not deployed that I have missed this kind of un-martial camaraderie. Anyway, we sat talked about the plans for the future, watched footage from old games, and had a few beers, of course.
It just so happens that the 6 Nations Rugby Tournament has been playing on the BBC America channel and the 7 Tournament on Universal Sports. This has had the effect of throwing gas on the fire for my desire to get back on the pitch. I am focused on getting stronger and faster in the next month so I can be an active and beneficial participant in this spring’s games. I have learned a lot about the sport and the rules, and I think I am better prepared to play and contribute this go.
My first practice was this Saturday. Although we practiced indoors, it was a cathartic experience. I was back in that euphoric place of playing an exciting sport and enjoying the experience of being a part of a team. I may not become the next Mike Tindall or Jonny Wilkinson but I plan on having my moments. You wait and see.