So I finally have access to this blog so here goes nothing! Please do not refer to the previous post date as it does not matter from here on out (ignore the 18 months in-between). The blog is now up and running again and that is all that matters! That being said, I would like to say a few words:
I CAN'T WAIT FOR THIS SEASON! It is truly an honor to be appointed the new captain of this club. To share the same position as some of the previous greats is blowing my mind. I'm happy the team feels confident in me and entrusts me with the task of not letting this club team dwindle away. I feel motivated and determined to not only get the team back up and going with full force, but to put forth a solid team good enough to even have a winning season and kick some ass.
Things fell apart near the end of last season but never again, not on my watch. Where we struggled to field a team of 15 last year, we have already improved. 27 people already showed up to our first meeting and that wasn't even everybody. We have numbers this year, we have skill, we have determination, and we are ready to get some experience. I am ready to ruck shit up this season!
Your new president,
Zachary Kronisch
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
close first win sets up promising 2011 spring season
This last Saturday, the men of Guilford Rugby faced off against a hard-running team from Davidson College, on our home pitch.
From kick-off the game proceeded quickly, with Guilford putting together several phases in a row and marching down the pitch to well inside their twenty-two. The Davidson defense held however and a Guilford penalty gave Davidson the ball back without any points on the board. The first half was a back and forth battle. Guilford was given the advantage over Davidson through great scrummaging overall country, overall mean forward play. Our mindset going into the match was that of tight defense. This was especially necessary around the breakdown, as these were the channels in which they attacked the hardest during our last bout. Davidson won the previous match 28-0 and Guilford came hoping for vengeance. Sure to the game plan, Davidson came in attacking mainly in pods consisting of forwards, and Guilford withstood the pressure, only being inside our 22 meter line a few times in the first half.
On the offensive side, there were missed opportunities to attack the ball out wide, with Matt Hayes making his first start at fly-half. The centers, Randall Aldana (inside) and Sean McNally (outside) made excellent runs and drove the defense back on nearly every run and while we held good possession throughout the first half nothing came to fruition, leaving both teams at 0 by the end of the first forty minutes.
Guilford sustained a key injury with starting scrummy "Baby" Nick Forman being sidelined with an injury around halfway through the first half. Baby Nick wouldn't make a re-appearance and was taken to the hospital, where was diagnosed with back spasms. Nick is listed as questionable for the upcoming game this Saturday against West Carolina University. "Blonde" Tom Clement, who forms the Guilford scrum-half committee, came in from Wing and played a solid game throughout.
At halftime Guilford was hungry, and we knew that it was our game to win. After a good pep talk we came out in the second half determined to put points on the board quickly. Finally our prayers were answered when rookie flanker Randy Perry made an excellent play, surging through their line and grounding the ball inside their try zone. Sophomore Aaron Craig slotted the conversion and Guilford went up 7-0. Quickly afterwards Davidson had possession of the ball, and through several penalties had gotten to within our 22. Their back-line, which had showed little promise throughout the first half, made a series of quick passes to the wing, and in a race to the try line barely beat out our chasing back three, to the dismay of our team and supporters. Luckily enough, their kicker grubbed the ball on the conversion and Guilford stayed ahead by two points.
The second half was slightly less sloppy than the first, but both teams had their fair share of penalties. The forwards played up to their first half level, anchored by seniors David Watters at prop and Kevin Cumberland at 8-man. It was because of our forwards, and top-shelf running from the backs as well that Guilford was once again on their doorstep. About halfway through the second-half, directly on a scrummage Sean McNally moved to the fly half for one play, running to the weak side and getting within five meters of the try line. We stayed at this position, moving across the face of the goal before a Davidson penalty and corresponding quick tap try by "Burrito" McNally gave Guilford some breathing room at 12-5.
From then on out it was a game of possession, with Guilford making some mental errors that moved Davidson down the field once more into the Guilford half. As time was running out Davidson once again brought the ball out wide in a run mirroring their first try, but their wing's foot found touch and after a few minutes of debate caused the head referee to rule a line-out. The Davidson coach was raging and caused their to be a penalty to Guilford just as time expired, and after a kick to touch their were cheers from the Guilford side that signaled a victory...
It was a good first win, and many thanks to the fans and everyone who came out to the game and helped make it happen. Look for a blog coming up in about a week after our away game Saturday February 19 against WCU! Thanks for reading....
Guilford 12 - Davidson 5
Just as a public service announcement: There are no alcoholic beverages permitted on the sidelines, parking lot or playing field of the Rugby Pitch. Any individual found with such items may be ejected from the match and subject to school-legal sanctions. The Guilford Rugby team would like to ask that all of our fans follow in accordance with all school, local, state, and federal regulations, and please keep coming out to our games!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Game Recaps of the Duke and Gastonia matches
Sorry for the delay in getting these posts out...
For the first game of our Fall 2010 season, we convoyed over to Durham to face off against Duke in a Friday night game. This first game featured fresh faces at several positions both within the scrum and back line. Returning players such as Dave "Caveman" Watters, and Aaron "Harvard" Craig helped to lead the scrum, while flyhalf Sean "Burrito" McNally led a back line in which Harrison Anthony started his first game at the outside center position.
This game was played in true fall non-MATRIX fashion, with no kicking for points allowed, due to the fact that a massive satellite was placed behind one of the goal posts in order to broadcast the soccer game that was happening that same night.
Duke started hot, and the Guilford defense was slow to respond, giving up a quick try to the Blue Devils. It was a back and forth game, with penalties on both sides of the ball. The Guilford set-pieces were somewhat sloppy, but it is to be expected with a healthy dose of new blood in the scrums and line outs. Guilford's main defensive problem was not coming up to the ball, and Duke was able to move the ball along the line unimpeded. Our boys responded though, with excellent runs and try's by Harry and Sean McNally in the first half.
The second half went in a similar fashion as the first, but Guilford remained close the entire game. Several forwards made strong powerful runs in after halftime, including those by David Watters and Aaron Craig, the latter of which resulted in a try. The quick Duke wing was more limited than he was in the previous game the previous spring, although he still broke off several long runs.
For the fresh blood - Senior Grayson and transfer Junior Randy played with the type of intensity that makes us proud to be ruggers. Overall there were clear things to work on, but Guilford showed good resilience and chemistry as a side playing its first match together.
Final Score :Duke 35 - Guilford 25
In the first home match of the season the Guilford Men played against the Gastonia Men's Rugby club in a late afternooon match during parents weekend. After watching the girls club play a valiant game against UNC-G, our men took the pitch against the larger, older men of the Gastonia club. This game was confirmed late, after our scheduled opponent Elon, realized that they had already scheduled a match for the weekend against Duke.
The Guilford Club was much better prepared for this, our second match playing as a side, although, an injury to Andrew Slater left us without our captain. For this match, Harry Anthony played at fly half, with veteran Sean McNally moving to the outside center position. This new back line allowed McNally to play his natural position at 13, and put Harry at the 10 spot.
In this second game it was Guilford's turn to start quickly, with excellent back line passing bringing a quick try to the Quakers. The Guilford defense responded to the critics, with better movement and spacing throughout the line. Excellent tackling was displayed around the breakdown by Kevin Cumberland, and new scrummy "Baby" Nick Forman. The Guilford lineouts were also much improved and it showed, with the set pieces bringing breakout offense which resulted in a series of tries for the Guilford Side.
This was a good win for Guilford, our first of the 2010 - 2011 season, and showed the team's potential. Our next game is Saturday, October 30 against Pembroke.
Stay posted
Final Score: Guilford 29 - Gastonia 19
For the first game of our Fall 2010 season, we convoyed over to Durham to face off against Duke in a Friday night game. This first game featured fresh faces at several positions both within the scrum and back line. Returning players such as Dave "Caveman" Watters, and Aaron "Harvard" Craig helped to lead the scrum, while flyhalf Sean "Burrito" McNally led a back line in which Harrison Anthony started his first game at the outside center position.
This game was played in true fall non-MATRIX fashion, with no kicking for points allowed, due to the fact that a massive satellite was placed behind one of the goal posts in order to broadcast the soccer game that was happening that same night.
Duke started hot, and the Guilford defense was slow to respond, giving up a quick try to the Blue Devils. It was a back and forth game, with penalties on both sides of the ball. The Guilford set-pieces were somewhat sloppy, but it is to be expected with a healthy dose of new blood in the scrums and line outs. Guilford's main defensive problem was not coming up to the ball, and Duke was able to move the ball along the line unimpeded. Our boys responded though, with excellent runs and try's by Harry and Sean McNally in the first half.
The second half went in a similar fashion as the first, but Guilford remained close the entire game. Several forwards made strong powerful runs in after halftime, including those by David Watters and Aaron Craig, the latter of which resulted in a try. The quick Duke wing was more limited than he was in the previous game the previous spring, although he still broke off several long runs.
For the fresh blood - Senior Grayson and transfer Junior Randy played with the type of intensity that makes us proud to be ruggers. Overall there were clear things to work on, but Guilford showed good resilience and chemistry as a side playing its first match together.
Final Score :Duke 35 - Guilford 25
In the first home match of the season the Guilford Men played against the Gastonia Men's Rugby club in a late afternooon match during parents weekend. After watching the girls club play a valiant game against UNC-G, our men took the pitch against the larger, older men of the Gastonia club. This game was confirmed late, after our scheduled opponent Elon, realized that they had already scheduled a match for the weekend against Duke.
The Guilford Club was much better prepared for this, our second match playing as a side, although, an injury to Andrew Slater left us without our captain. For this match, Harry Anthony played at fly half, with veteran Sean McNally moving to the outside center position. This new back line allowed McNally to play his natural position at 13, and put Harry at the 10 spot.
In this second game it was Guilford's turn to start quickly, with excellent back line passing bringing a quick try to the Quakers. The Guilford defense responded to the critics, with better movement and spacing throughout the line. Excellent tackling was displayed around the breakdown by Kevin Cumberland, and new scrummy "Baby" Nick Forman. The Guilford lineouts were also much improved and it showed, with the set pieces bringing breakout offense which resulted in a series of tries for the Guilford Side.
This was a good win for Guilford, our first of the 2010 - 2011 season, and showed the team's potential. Our next game is Saturday, October 30 against Pembroke.
Stay posted
Final Score: Guilford 29 - Gastonia 19
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Embarrassing loss to UNCG ends competitive season for Guilford
It's never easy to write a match report for a game in which your side did not manage a single point. Even more so when the competition put up 60. On Friday night Guilford traveled across town for what was anticipated as a clash of playoff-bound teams and came back with nothing more than a sack full of dirty jerseys and, yes, a 0-60 obliteration on our minds. This one won't take too long...
The first ten minutes of the game are worth mention as Guilford showed the game that had put them at 2-1 in the matrix with a couple of bonus points: center Bryce Bjornson broke for an impressive gain - although he would suffer a concussion, his third in four games, after using his head as a battering ram. Flyhalf Sean McNally, who captained for the visting side with Andrew Slater out with injury, showed renewed composure - after losing control of his line in the latter stages of the Duke game - and managed his centers and back three tactfully, although not fruitfully, throughout the test. Winger "Baby" Nick Forman showcased some of his linebacker schooling in a few impressive tackles in the open field. Kevin Cumberland, moving to the number eight position for injured Slater and gave a strong performance. As usual, first-year utility-forward Aaron Craig made his presence known at both flanker and prop. And the reintroduction of veteran hooker Abel Montes de Oca added a boost of tenacity to the pack. And that is as much as can be said for the Guilford side.
After UNCG scored their first try of the match Guilford fell apart, revealing yet again the true weakness of this athletically-talented team: discipline and emotional control. Like a blow to the groin, Guilford never recovered from that first score and UNCG was able to take advantage and had piled on 31 points before half-time. In the second half they would add 29 more with the last ten minutes of the game reduced to a gunfight in which Guilford had not even a spoon to defend itself. To add insult to injury prop Jamie Sisk, finally back healthy in the starting side, earned a yellow card in the first half for a high-tackle and celebration that sent him to the bin and then in the second half delivered an astounding shoulder charge that put him off the field for good and left the already reeling Guilford side a man down for the remainder of the match. Sisk is now looking at a 10-week benching at the hands of the ref and NCRU.
And speak of the ref... From my vantage point in a sling on the sideline, that was the worst bit of refereeing I have ever witnessed. His interesting mix of silent advantage, a delayed whistle and a general blatant ignorance of the rules of rugby had the coaches of both teams commiserating on the sideline and offering to help point out that a penalty does not garner a scrum down and other forgettable points from the rugby rulebook.
There's nothing really to add here. Gulford will be playing a series of friendlys to close out the spring season, traveling to Davidson this weekend, possibly heading down to the beach to take on UNCW - who are back in the developmental league after fulfilling their 2 year suspension - and then meeting the Triad Dawgwood Flowers at home on the 17th and finally UNC Pembroke at home on the 24th.
The first ten minutes of the game are worth mention as Guilford showed the game that had put them at 2-1 in the matrix with a couple of bonus points: center Bryce Bjornson broke for an impressive gain - although he would suffer a concussion, his third in four games, after using his head as a battering ram. Flyhalf Sean McNally, who captained for the visting side with Andrew Slater out with injury, showed renewed composure - after losing control of his line in the latter stages of the Duke game - and managed his centers and back three tactfully, although not fruitfully, throughout the test. Winger "Baby" Nick Forman showcased some of his linebacker schooling in a few impressive tackles in the open field. Kevin Cumberland, moving to the number eight position for injured Slater and gave a strong performance. As usual, first-year utility-forward Aaron Craig made his presence known at both flanker and prop. And the reintroduction of veteran hooker Abel Montes de Oca added a boost of tenacity to the pack. And that is as much as can be said for the Guilford side.
After UNCG scored their first try of the match Guilford fell apart, revealing yet again the true weakness of this athletically-talented team: discipline and emotional control. Like a blow to the groin, Guilford never recovered from that first score and UNCG was able to take advantage and had piled on 31 points before half-time. In the second half they would add 29 more with the last ten minutes of the game reduced to a gunfight in which Guilford had not even a spoon to defend itself. To add insult to injury prop Jamie Sisk, finally back healthy in the starting side, earned a yellow card in the first half for a high-tackle and celebration that sent him to the bin and then in the second half delivered an astounding shoulder charge that put him off the field for good and left the already reeling Guilford side a man down for the remainder of the match. Sisk is now looking at a 10-week benching at the hands of the ref and NCRU.
And speak of the ref... From my vantage point in a sling on the sideline, that was the worst bit of refereeing I have ever witnessed. His interesting mix of silent advantage, a delayed whistle and a general blatant ignorance of the rules of rugby had the coaches of both teams commiserating on the sideline and offering to help point out that a penalty does not garner a scrum down and other forgettable points from the rugby rulebook.
There's nothing really to add here. Gulford will be playing a series of friendlys to close out the spring season, traveling to Davidson this weekend, possibly heading down to the beach to take on UNCW - who are back in the developmental league after fulfilling their 2 year suspension - and then meeting the Triad Dawgwood Flowers at home on the 17th and finally UNC Pembroke at home on the 24th.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Night game at Duke ends in heartbreak
The final score did not reflect the game that Guilford played on Thursday night. Discipline was the missing factor in the 20-31 loss as Guilford controlled the pace of game and possession of the ball but could not capitalize at key moments. Duke took advantage with a combination of lucky breaks and smart decisions to outlast us and come away from the battle of a match with the win.
In the first half both teams came strongly out of the gate. After a missed penalty kick by Guilford early, Duke got a chance of their own in front of the posts and knocked down the games first points. We had heard the stories of Duke's speedy wing and indeed they are all true. He got his first try of the game early, taking advantage of an unset Guilford defensive line. Down by 10 we charged back and put together a good series of phases, marching down to the Duke 5 meter line. This momentum was put on hiatus when the lights to the field shut off leaving everyone standing confusedly in the dark. 20 minutes later at the restart Guilford was unable to turn the opportunity into points.
Possession flipped but Guilford continued to press into Duke territory and flyhalf Sean McNally, in his classic burrito form, touched down after quick-tapping a penalty for Guilford's first points. However, the effort was nullified when Duke, noticing Guilford lagging, quickly took the kickoff and their wing recovered the deep kick for another try, putting Duke up 7-17. Shortly after fullback Max George scooped up an errant pass and broke through the line for a try but missed the conversion to make it 12-17 and that would be the score at the half.
On the opening phase of the second half outside center Bryce Bjornson, who had just subbed in for starter Harry Anthony, took a hefty blow to his mustache-laden head, rendering him apparently concussed but unwilling to step off. After the restart Guilford charged back with the pack controlling the rucks, scrums and line-outs. An apparent try by flanker Kevin Cumberland was revoked, the ref penalizing him for a double-maneuver. However, Guilford regained possession and went back on the attack and Bryce proved his resiliency by breaking multiple tackles in an impressive streak down the left side, culminating in a timely off-load to wing Luke Walsh-Mellett who was able to finish the attack with a game-tying try.
The score was stuck at 17-17 for some time and the next points would come from the boot of wing Walt Barber, putting Guilford up 20-17 with about 10 minutes left. However, discipline fell by the wayside and the backline, after displaying effective ball movement around the center of the pitch, lacked creativity in the opposing red zone and was unable to convert crucial opportunities. Duke's winger was able to field a bad Guilford pass and shrug off a tackler for his third try of the game, putting Duke up 20-24 with 8 minutes left in the match. Securing the kick off, Guilford fought back but again could not convert pressure into points and Duke put the last nail in the coffin when their opposite wing touched down after a long run to put the home team up 20-31 with a couple minutes remaining in the match.
Despite the loss, Guilford has a lot to be proud of. With six changes in the starting line, a few players had impressive performances to make up the difference. Cumberland, lock Crosby Blair, and man-of-the-match hooker Aaron Craig were beasts. The starting back three - Walsh-Mellett, George, and Dave Kloss - rendered Duke's kicking attack harmless and mounted a few solid counter-attacks. Starting center Andrew "Texas" Heimsath, finally getting his first action, was steady at both outside (first half) and inside (second half) and should be a force to be reckoned with as the season progresses. But once again, penalties (15) plagued Guilford and a subsequent lack of discipline left us unable to capitalize on the number of opportunities we were afforded.
With a rest for spring break, the next match is a Friday night game on March 19 at UNCG. Thanks to all the fans who traveled to support us last night (Duke had less than a handful of supporters for their home game and we had an entire cheering section!), hope to see you at the next one.
Quote of the day: When being checked for symptoms of concussion after the match and asked what his name was, he stared blankly off into space and muttered, "Bryce College Bjornson." Classic.
In the first half both teams came strongly out of the gate. After a missed penalty kick by Guilford early, Duke got a chance of their own in front of the posts and knocked down the games first points. We had heard the stories of Duke's speedy wing and indeed they are all true. He got his first try of the game early, taking advantage of an unset Guilford defensive line. Down by 10 we charged back and put together a good series of phases, marching down to the Duke 5 meter line. This momentum was put on hiatus when the lights to the field shut off leaving everyone standing confusedly in the dark. 20 minutes later at the restart Guilford was unable to turn the opportunity into points.
Possession flipped but Guilford continued to press into Duke territory and flyhalf Sean McNally, in his classic burrito form, touched down after quick-tapping a penalty for Guilford's first points. However, the effort was nullified when Duke, noticing Guilford lagging, quickly took the kickoff and their wing recovered the deep kick for another try, putting Duke up 7-17. Shortly after fullback Max George scooped up an errant pass and broke through the line for a try but missed the conversion to make it 12-17 and that would be the score at the half.
On the opening phase of the second half outside center Bryce Bjornson, who had just subbed in for starter Harry Anthony, took a hefty blow to his mustache-laden head, rendering him apparently concussed but unwilling to step off. After the restart Guilford charged back with the pack controlling the rucks, scrums and line-outs. An apparent try by flanker Kevin Cumberland was revoked, the ref penalizing him for a double-maneuver. However, Guilford regained possession and went back on the attack and Bryce proved his resiliency by breaking multiple tackles in an impressive streak down the left side, culminating in a timely off-load to wing Luke Walsh-Mellett who was able to finish the attack with a game-tying try.
The score was stuck at 17-17 for some time and the next points would come from the boot of wing Walt Barber, putting Guilford up 20-17 with about 10 minutes left. However, discipline fell by the wayside and the backline, after displaying effective ball movement around the center of the pitch, lacked creativity in the opposing red zone and was unable to convert crucial opportunities. Duke's winger was able to field a bad Guilford pass and shrug off a tackler for his third try of the game, putting Duke up 20-24 with 8 minutes left in the match. Securing the kick off, Guilford fought back but again could not convert pressure into points and Duke put the last nail in the coffin when their opposite wing touched down after a long run to put the home team up 20-31 with a couple minutes remaining in the match.
Despite the loss, Guilford has a lot to be proud of. With six changes in the starting line, a few players had impressive performances to make up the difference. Cumberland, lock Crosby Blair, and man-of-the-match hooker Aaron Craig were beasts. The starting back three - Walsh-Mellett, George, and Dave Kloss - rendered Duke's kicking attack harmless and mounted a few solid counter-attacks. Starting center Andrew "Texas" Heimsath, finally getting his first action, was steady at both outside (first half) and inside (second half) and should be a force to be reckoned with as the season progresses. But once again, penalties (15) plagued Guilford and a subsequent lack of discipline left us unable to capitalize on the number of opportunities we were afforded.
With a rest for spring break, the next match is a Friday night game on March 19 at UNCG. Thanks to all the fans who traveled to support us last night (Duke had less than a handful of supporters for their home game and we had an entire cheering section!), hope to see you at the next one.
Quote of the day: When being checked for symptoms of concussion after the match and asked what his name was, he stared blankly off into space and muttered, "Bryce College Bjornson." Classic.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Guilford moves to 2-0
On Saturday Guilford defeated UNC Charlotte 28-3 to move to 2-0 with 6 points in the matrix standings. After a lashing at the hands of UNCC in the friendly fall season, Guilford looked to get revenge, and it came.
In the first half of the game Guilford dominated with controlled methodical rugby and maintained possession of the ball for a majority of the 40 minutes. With the pack commanding the rucks and scrums the Quakers marched down the field and scored early when flanker Kevin Cumberland made a head's up play in support of charging fullback Max George catching the off load pass and breaking through an uneven line to touch down.
Charlotte responded by capitalizing off of a Guilford penalty, putting a tough kick through the posts. But Guilford charged back and again attacked wide. George found the tryzone to cap off a fast-paced series. For the second week in a row lock Crosby Blair governed the line outs and the pack controlled the scrumdowns, allowing the backs to play with confidence. Before the break Guilford got another try in the hands of wing Luke Walsh-Mellet who touched down in the corner. Wing Walt Barber nailed the cross-field conversion to give the home team a comfortable 21-3 lead at half.
After the break Charlotte came out with force, stealing the kickoff and mounting a strong attack but Guilford held. Injuries to Cumberland, George and center Bryce Bjornson brought on a wave of substitutions and Guilford's composure weakened in the second half. McNally stayed on despite an obvious hobble and it would be his try - a sneaky quick-tap from five meters out - for the second week in a row, that earned the Quakers (AKA the Giant Stonehenge Beavers) a bonus point in the matrix standings.
Penalties plagued Guilford (I counted 8 in the first half) but Charlotte was unable to find rhythm and the uncoached home team produced a convincing 28-3 win in front of a large gathering of fans who enjoyed the first fair-weather match in a long time. Prop Jamie Sisk's impressive first half earned him the day's Man-of-the-Match award.
Guilford (2-0) will travel to Duke for a night game Thursday, Mar. 4.
In the first half of the game Guilford dominated with controlled methodical rugby and maintained possession of the ball for a majority of the 40 minutes. With the pack commanding the rucks and scrums the Quakers marched down the field and scored early when flanker Kevin Cumberland made a head's up play in support of charging fullback Max George catching the off load pass and breaking through an uneven line to touch down.
Charlotte responded by capitalizing off of a Guilford penalty, putting a tough kick through the posts. But Guilford charged back and again attacked wide. George found the tryzone to cap off a fast-paced series. For the second week in a row lock Crosby Blair governed the line outs and the pack controlled the scrumdowns, allowing the backs to play with confidence. Before the break Guilford got another try in the hands of wing Luke Walsh-Mellet who touched down in the corner. Wing Walt Barber nailed the cross-field conversion to give the home team a comfortable 21-3 lead at half.
After the break Charlotte came out with force, stealing the kickoff and mounting a strong attack but Guilford held. Injuries to Cumberland, George and center Bryce Bjornson brought on a wave of substitutions and Guilford's composure weakened in the second half. McNally stayed on despite an obvious hobble and it would be his try - a sneaky quick-tap from five meters out - for the second week in a row, that earned the Quakers (AKA the Giant Stonehenge Beavers) a bonus point in the matrix standings.
Penalties plagued Guilford (I counted 8 in the first half) but Charlotte was unable to find rhythm and the uncoached home team produced a convincing 28-3 win in front of a large gathering of fans who enjoyed the first fair-weather match in a long time. Prop Jamie Sisk's impressive first half earned him the day's Man-of-the-Match award.
Guilford (2-0) will travel to Duke for a night game Thursday, Mar. 4.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Guilford gets back to winning ways in 2010 opener
Despite accruing an embarrassing total of 18 penalties - most coming around the ruck - Guilford managed to seize victory in the opening game of the 2010 matrix season against the visiting Elon Pheonix on Saturday. In what might be remembered here out as the "mud match," a game that was thought to be just another in a string of cancellations (dating back to Halloween day for Guilford) but was ultimately allowed to commence, both teams came out of the gate with intensity.
Elon captured the momentum early with the first try of the game off of a mishandled kickoff by the home team. Within minutes most members of both sides were covered in a thick layer of brown mud as all of the snow from the night before melted on the already-devastated Guilford rugby pitch.
Guilford regained composure and took over the lead with two tries before the break as winger wing Walt Barber and inside center Randall Aldana each earned their first career scores; Walt touching down in the corner and Randall charging through from five meters out after the pack secured an important scrum. A controversial offsides high tackle by Aldana in front of his own try-zone would probably have earned him a ten-minute breather and a penalty try for the Phoenix under most officials whistles, but instead was deemed just a penalty, which Elon could not use to their advantage.
After the half Guilford's forwards began to control the game with a dominating scrum and some impressive jumping in the line-outs by lock Crosby Blair. Guilford found themselves unable to find pay dirt after winger Dave Kloss got the ball close on a weak-side attack. The forwards ran a succession of crashes around the five-meter line until getting penalized and losing a potential game-sealing opportunity.
However, the tired Guilford side was aided by a string of substitutions and a large crowd of home supporters and off of a line-out in their own end fullback Max George caught a long pass from flyhalf Sean McNally, found a hole in the Elon line and was able to shake the lone 15 and take it 60 meters until falling awkwardly a few feet in front of the try-zone and squirming forward to touch the ball down across the line just before an Elon defender got there.
But the Phoenix fought back and after yet another penalty in the ruck against the home team and the subsequent sin-binning of captain Andrew Slater an Elon forward scored on a hard tap-and-go drive from five meters out. The remainder of the game was defined by sloppy play from both sides in the increasingly muddy conditions. The teams traded penalties and Guilford benefited from some crucial Elon knock-ons until flyhalf Sean McNally managed to break a succession of tackles and run in the game's final try with minutes remaining, securing a bonus point for the Quakers.
With a final score of 22-10 Guilford earned their first win since September and find themselves in a decent position approaching this weekend's home match against UNC Charlotte. Spirited play from flanker Kevin Cumberland, who was so thoroughly covered in mud by game's end that his number seven was indiscernible, earned him the Man-of-the-Match award.
At days end it was clear that everyone is happy to be playing rugby again and the unheard of streak of seven straight games canceled due to weather is finally over. Guilford will host Charlotte, who have yet to play this year, at 1 PM on Saturday.
(photos by Cloud Gamble)
Monday, February 8, 2010
Finally, Saturday can be a rugby day once again.
For as long as this blog has been down (since the NCRU tourney last fall), Guilford Rugby has been unable to play a match, perhaps a direct response from the rugby gods to the inconsiderate and unfavorable nature of the content formerly appearing on this blog.
However, I am happy to announce a number of positives in this post, the foremost being the extreme likelihood of a Guilford Rugby match being played this coming Saturday. That's right, after three months of rain and snow cancellations (totaling 7 straight unplayed games), this Saturday the weather is looking good and Guilford hopes to host Elon Rugby Club at 1 PM to kick off their Spring 2010 Matrix campaign. Despite the facts that our last game was on Halloween day (and we, appropriately, wore NC State's graciously shared b-side jerseys) and it was a devastating blow-out delivered at the hands of an impressive UNCG side, Guilford is coming into this weekend's game with a renewed focus and energy and a generally thankful attitude to just be playing rugby again.
Other news: just before the winter break Guilford put together a 7's side featuring Sean McNally, Luke Walsh-Mellet, Kevin Smithey, Andrew Slater, Max George, Alum Drew Gottlieb and Ben Snyder, and ruglets Nelson, James and Z plus Sean's little brother Connor who flew up from Austin to participate. The team entered into the Columbia-hosted annual Grunk 7's tourney and came out with a 1-2-1 record on the day and a lot of gained experience and lost energy. We sported new green-and-white (cliche much?) jerseys under the moniker "McNally's Gold" after a player homebrew, and Sean is hoping to break the set back out this summer for a few tourneys around NC and Texas (if you're interested in playing for McNally's Gold 7's this summer, let us know!).
Just after Christmas this winter former Guilford flyhalf and reigning Woodcock holder (and current volunteer assistant coach) David McKindley-Ward returned from his 3 month stay in Ireland where he was productive playing Outside Center for Dunmanway, a small town club near Cork under the Munster family of Irish rugby. McKindley-Ward scored a handful of tries for the club that would find itself playing for the championship in its division (although David injured his shoulder and couldn't play) and he made such a contribution as to be asked to stay on, which was, unfortunately, not possible due to his visa. However, back in Greensboro, David is, regrettably unable to play for Guilford, but has joined alum Gottlieb and Snyder on the Triad Men's Club. We wish him luck and hope he can return to Guilford in the fall.
And that is about all I will say for now. I am happy to be back from injury and will be doning the 15 in Saturday's match. More to come soon, great to be back on the pitch and back online!
Max
However, I am happy to announce a number of positives in this post, the foremost being the extreme likelihood of a Guilford Rugby match being played this coming Saturday. That's right, after three months of rain and snow cancellations (totaling 7 straight unplayed games), this Saturday the weather is looking good and Guilford hopes to host Elon Rugby Club at 1 PM to kick off their Spring 2010 Matrix campaign. Despite the facts that our last game was on Halloween day (and we, appropriately, wore NC State's graciously shared b-side jerseys) and it was a devastating blow-out delivered at the hands of an impressive UNCG side, Guilford is coming into this weekend's game with a renewed focus and energy and a generally thankful attitude to just be playing rugby again.
Other news: just before the winter break Guilford put together a 7's side featuring Sean McNally, Luke Walsh-Mellet, Kevin Smithey, Andrew Slater, Max George, Alum Drew Gottlieb and Ben Snyder, and ruglets Nelson, James and Z plus Sean's little brother Connor who flew up from Austin to participate. The team entered into the Columbia-hosted annual Grunk 7's tourney and came out with a 1-2-1 record on the day and a lot of gained experience and lost energy. We sported new green-and-white (cliche much?) jerseys under the moniker "McNally's Gold" after a player homebrew, and Sean is hoping to break the set back out this summer for a few tourneys around NC and Texas (if you're interested in playing for McNally's Gold 7's this summer, let us know!).
Just after Christmas this winter former Guilford flyhalf and reigning Woodcock holder (and current volunteer assistant coach) David McKindley-Ward returned from his 3 month stay in Ireland where he was productive playing Outside Center for Dunmanway, a small town club near Cork under the Munster family of Irish rugby. McKindley-Ward scored a handful of tries for the club that would find itself playing for the championship in its division (although David injured his shoulder and couldn't play) and he made such a contribution as to be asked to stay on, which was, unfortunately, not possible due to his visa. However, back in Greensboro, David is, regrettably unable to play for Guilford, but has joined alum Gottlieb and Snyder on the Triad Men's Club. We wish him luck and hope he can return to Guilford in the fall.
And that is about all I will say for now. I am happy to be back from injury and will be doning the 15 in Saturday's match. More to come soon, great to be back on the pitch and back online!
Max
Thursday, October 29, 2009
NCRU State Tourney and Recent Developments
The Guilford Rugby blog has become dusty with the cobwebs of neglect and the stale breath of Chris Allman. Not to worry, though, here is an update for all ye faithful (aka those who read this blog aka a few current and former Guilford rugby players) on the last month of activity and the road ahead.
After losing to the old-boys in the 2nd Annual Guilford Rugby Alumni Game in late September, GCRFC hosted a reformed UNC Charlotte team looking for revenge after losing here in Greensboro one year ago. Revenge, so it went, was readily available in easy-to-swallow pill form as the 49's rolled up to Greensboro, rolled over Guilford, and rolled back to Charlotte with only a few speed bumps (most of them being literal road traffic calming devices and only a few being those metaphorical hindrances on the pitch). As the game was a month ago, I have chosen to forget the final score, however it is clear that Charlotte had a lot and Guilford had a little (5 to be exact, coming in the form of a late second half dignity try by junior transfer Sean McNally, aka "the new David", getting his much-deserved first points of the season).
If there was anything to glean from the game it is the play of senior scrumhalf Kevin Smithey who made his debut in the 9 shirt (transitioning from his 3-year worn number 7) and proved not only his aptitude at organizing both the piggies and the princesses but also fed McNally clean ball all day (on and off the pitch), earning Smithey his second man-of-the-match award of the season. Also noteworthy for Guilford is the continued commitment of the rookie players who again came out to play despite an apparent lack of knowledge in the game. But do not discredit these boys, they're learning more every week and have definitely begun to show a retention of knowledge on the basic rules and skills of the greatest sport on Earth. Credit must also be given to UNC Charlotte. The boys we met in this game, sporting slick new black jerseys, were not only generally nice but they also showed some real talent and their drift offense had Guilford players thumbing their own buttholes while Charlotte scored time and time again.
Since that game Guilford has begun an effort to return to the basics of rugby that enabled us to go undefeated last fall and place 2nd in the matrix this past spring: endurance and defense. With junior prop Randall Aldana making the move to inside center (?!?) and senior Bryce Bjornson and rookie Lester back at the outside center position, Guilford woeful backline play since the season opener is poised for a turnaround as senior Joel Popkin and junior Harry Anthony will be able to command the back-three with rookie talents Z Klonowski and Luke Walsh-Mellett. Another bit of good news is the possible return this weekend of fullback Max George who has been out for 6 weeks after dislocating his shoulder in the first five minutes of the Elon game. Today he received a hesitant vote of confidence from the doctor, who says he will be full strength in three weeks time but is probably okay to start contact, which is by any means good enough for him.
All of this is to say that Guilford is feeling confident going into this weekend's North Carolina Rugby State Tournament in Danville, VA (??). On Saturday at 11:30 Guilford will take on crosstown rivals UNCG with the winner playing the winner of UNCC-Duke for the Sunday championship.
After losing to the old-boys in the 2nd Annual Guilford Rugby Alumni Game in late September, GCRFC hosted a reformed UNC Charlotte team looking for revenge after losing here in Greensboro one year ago. Revenge, so it went, was readily available in easy-to-swallow pill form as the 49's rolled up to Greensboro, rolled over Guilford, and rolled back to Charlotte with only a few speed bumps (most of them being literal road traffic calming devices and only a few being those metaphorical hindrances on the pitch). As the game was a month ago, I have chosen to forget the final score, however it is clear that Charlotte had a lot and Guilford had a little (5 to be exact, coming in the form of a late second half dignity try by junior transfer Sean McNally, aka "the new David", getting his much-deserved first points of the season).
If there was anything to glean from the game it is the play of senior scrumhalf Kevin Smithey who made his debut in the 9 shirt (transitioning from his 3-year worn number 7) and proved not only his aptitude at organizing both the piggies and the princesses but also fed McNally clean ball all day (on and off the pitch), earning Smithey his second man-of-the-match award of the season. Also noteworthy for Guilford is the continued commitment of the rookie players who again came out to play despite an apparent lack of knowledge in the game. But do not discredit these boys, they're learning more every week and have definitely begun to show a retention of knowledge on the basic rules and skills of the greatest sport on Earth. Credit must also be given to UNC Charlotte. The boys we met in this game, sporting slick new black jerseys, were not only generally nice but they also showed some real talent and their drift offense had Guilford players thumbing their own buttholes while Charlotte scored time and time again.
Since that game Guilford has begun an effort to return to the basics of rugby that enabled us to go undefeated last fall and place 2nd in the matrix this past spring: endurance and defense. With junior prop Randall Aldana making the move to inside center (?!?) and senior Bryce Bjornson and rookie Lester back at the outside center position, Guilford woeful backline play since the season opener is poised for a turnaround as senior Joel Popkin and junior Harry Anthony will be able to command the back-three with rookie talents Z Klonowski and Luke Walsh-Mellett. Another bit of good news is the possible return this weekend of fullback Max George who has been out for 6 weeks after dislocating his shoulder in the first five minutes of the Elon game. Today he received a hesitant vote of confidence from the doctor, who says he will be full strength in three weeks time but is probably okay to start contact, which is by any means good enough for him.
All of this is to say that Guilford is feeling confident going into this weekend's North Carolina Rugby State Tournament in Danville, VA (??). On Saturday at 11:30 Guilford will take on crosstown rivals UNCG with the winner playing the winner of UNCC-Duke for the Sunday championship.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
McKindley Ward receives 2008 Woodcock Award
All joking aside, the 2nd annual GCR Alumni Match was a great success and the relationship between the current college club and its former alumni continues to grow at the benefit of all parties.
Importantly, on Saturday the Alumni Association recognized Junior David McKindley Ward as the MVP of the 2008 season.
Although the man often called "Superstar" by his teammates is never short of praise for his contribution to the team at Flyhalf for the last two years and change, he now has his name alongside other Guilford Men's Rugby greats including last year's recipient Nick Hunter and GCRFC legends like Tyler Cope, Ben Snyder, Dan Hayden, and Kevin Woodcock himself. Undoubtedly, due to his aggressive manner of play and deft kicking talent McKindley Ward is the all-time points leader in the clubs history, although official numbers will never be available. All former recipients of the Woodcock Award (which has been given for each year since 2002) were on hand to present the award except for the inaugural winner, Joe S.
The award is now on display to the public in the Guilford College trophy case in the gym, a further testament to the solidity of the club's relationship with the school that has developed in recent years.
Monday, September 28, 2009
"Guilford Ruggers Ravaged by Alumni Horde" (The Alumni Game Match Report as told by Nick Hunter Guilford '08)
College Pretenders: 12-26 :Alumni Avengers
The Alumni Field Report
This past weekend will live in Guilford Rugby infamy forever, or at least until next fall. In an epic rainsoaked rumble that deserved the signature of Tolkien himself, a large compliment of graduated (and not-so graduated) alumni brawlers laid waste to a young and petulant clan of footy wanna-bes. Captained by the treacherous Matt Baker of Richmond Lions duty, the larger and more experienced maroon-and-blacks flexed their numerous degrees and laid down a cold, harsh welcome to the rigors of real-world rugby.
Though Guilford plays an effective, fast-paced game that will likely demolish their collegiate foes this year, the Alumni team had planned for chaos and ball-dropping. The addition of a steady rain and a wet paddock greatly enhanced only one of those strategies, and no points for guessing whose. That said, Alumni first-five Tito Kohout's hands (on loan from Austin Huns) were impeccable on the day and he dropped nary a pass that was noticed in 100 minutes of rugby. His starting second-five Chris Pugliese was as impressive, dotting down a try and showcasing the linebreaking talent that earned him a bullshit under-the-table degree in jungle pseudoscience from Blockbuster University. Chrissy was later hailed as the backs' man-of-the-match by the college side in the postgame BBQ of Warriors at the community center. He has yet to pay his dues. Or tuition.
Referee George Huber was once more risen from the grave to lend his services to these Elysian Fields festivities. Huber's reffing style is best described as whimsical and hazardous to all players under his whistle, but his two blind eyes and lack of fitness also go well toward fantastic flow of the game. Indeed, each team was equally maligned by his calls, which is perhaps the highest compliment that can be given to any referee. With a crack in the clouds after the match, a ray of sunlight disintegrated and banished his hated form back into the shadows, and thankful gifts of whiskey were placed by his tomb.
Sporting a hefty 300lb advantage in the packdown, the grizzled alumni forwards employed a smart strategy of lockout-and-lean (and punch) that made sure they only lost about 85% of the scrummages on the day. The plan was to collapse 100% of them, so to find the ball popping out favorably on occasion was an added bonus. Jeff Frisby and Joe Rumly made trouble up front for astoundingly long periods of time, given that their undying endurance on match day could only have come from pent-up hatred for rugby and humans in general, and not from fitness. Captain Baker at number 6 and a simply evil Drew Gottlieb (Triad Rugby) in the 7 shirt were able to slow enough ball and conceal enough penalties at the breakdown to force Abel Montes and the Innocent Children into a non-compete agreement. Forwards Kevin Woodcock (Duke Grad Rugby,) Dan Miller (Hussar Sevens,) and Byron Myers (Lizard People,) were present throughout to dish out unwarranted punishment and degrade the health of their joints. Miller propped from the full-squat position to compete for scrum space with world's largest toddler David Watters. Woodcock nearly slotted a penalty from his own half, only missing at the last second because the uprights were built thirty meters to the left of his kick a year ago. Ryan Kitaif fought somebody. Probably Crosby.
Legendary enforcer of many codes of law, Dan "Thunder" Hayden was the proud police pillager of five points on the day as he brutally tazed his way through Andrew Slater and Abel Montes to score a cop try before arresting college prop Randal Aldana in front of his mother. Gabriel Guindon and Cory Williams were everywhere on pitch, and squashed numerous uprisings against their harsh and unfair rule in the outside backs. Morgan Kerr swerved through every lane of traffic for 14 hours on his drive down from Maine to finally crash head-on into the Guilford uprights, throwing himself through the windshield and landing face down on a ball that had been worked into the tryzone, earning himself 5 points and a trip to Moses Cone hospital.
Wing Derek Loehr and fullback Cody Martin combined on several occasions to return counter-attacks and make all the right knock-ons. Their kicks and runs were effective and nullified young 15 Joel Popkin's ability to break through the defense or into local politics. Loehr's shoulder did not come out once, and Cody came out at the social. John "Two-brace" Stephenson left both braces in his kit bag, but did well to prevent attacks down the touchline and acquire attractive bruises before his upcoming wedding. John is wished well, and hopefully he keeps his children away from rugby. Self-proclaimed "Beer Coaches" Max George and Nick Hunter made nonsensical substitutions between irrational complaints, and neither one of the injured duo hurt themselves further while surveying the battle.
Detestable Ben Snyder scored the last meaningful try of the scrap, which went a long way toward redeeming his many failures on the pitch and in life. Kohout converted on three out of four in the wet, sealing the alumni contribution at 26 points. He and Pugliese, Hayden, Guindon, Stephenson, Kerr, Williams, Martin, Loehr, Harry Lorello, and others all put together shows of ball movement in the back line that made no sense given the wet conditions or the relative skill of any member in that combination. Lorello made several forays into action, gaining ground with forty-meter runs and eighty-proof breath. Max Kochinke was uncatchable and ran such a commanding game at halfback that he lost his voice completely. That was preferable, however, to Matt Elverson's lost dignity at #8 due to his now classic "kick from anywhere" strategy. Speaking of #8's with zero dignity, Tyler Cope made a lot of money for those who placed bets that he would make zero passes, but used his head as a battering ram for the unholy goals of his horde.
These nomadic Alums traveled from as far as Nantucket, Texas, and the West Coast just to collectively spite their former teammates and current standard bearers. The annual victory tally now stands at 1-1, with next year's rubber match already anticipated as Guilford Rugby hastily outpaces every season behind it, and every alum grows colder, more wicked, and another year closer to death.
PICTURES COMING SOON
The Alumni Field Report
This past weekend will live in Guilford Rugby infamy forever, or at least until next fall. In an epic rainsoaked rumble that deserved the signature of Tolkien himself, a large compliment of graduated (and not-so graduated) alumni brawlers laid waste to a young and petulant clan of footy wanna-bes. Captained by the treacherous Matt Baker of Richmond Lions duty, the larger and more experienced maroon-and-blacks flexed their numerous degrees and laid down a cold, harsh welcome to the rigors of real-world rugby.
Though Guilford plays an effective, fast-paced game that will likely demolish their collegiate foes this year, the Alumni team had planned for chaos and ball-dropping. The addition of a steady rain and a wet paddock greatly enhanced only one of those strategies, and no points for guessing whose. That said, Alumni first-five Tito Kohout's hands (on loan from Austin Huns) were impeccable on the day and he dropped nary a pass that was noticed in 100 minutes of rugby. His starting second-five Chris Pugliese was as impressive, dotting down a try and showcasing the linebreaking talent that earned him a bullshit under-the-table degree in jungle pseudoscience from Blockbuster University. Chrissy was later hailed as the backs' man-of-the-match by the college side in the postgame BBQ of Warriors at the community center. He has yet to pay his dues. Or tuition.
Referee George Huber was once more risen from the grave to lend his services to these Elysian Fields festivities. Huber's reffing style is best described as whimsical and hazardous to all players under his whistle, but his two blind eyes and lack of fitness also go well toward fantastic flow of the game. Indeed, each team was equally maligned by his calls, which is perhaps the highest compliment that can be given to any referee. With a crack in the clouds after the match, a ray of sunlight disintegrated and banished his hated form back into the shadows, and thankful gifts of whiskey were placed by his tomb.
Sporting a hefty 300lb advantage in the packdown, the grizzled alumni forwards employed a smart strategy of lockout-and-lean (and punch) that made sure they only lost about 85% of the scrummages on the day. The plan was to collapse 100% of them, so to find the ball popping out favorably on occasion was an added bonus. Jeff Frisby and Joe Rumly made trouble up front for astoundingly long periods of time, given that their undying endurance on match day could only have come from pent-up hatred for rugby and humans in general, and not from fitness. Captain Baker at number 6 and a simply evil Drew Gottlieb (Triad Rugby) in the 7 shirt were able to slow enough ball and conceal enough penalties at the breakdown to force Abel Montes and the Innocent Children into a non-compete agreement. Forwards Kevin Woodcock (Duke Grad Rugby,) Dan Miller (Hussar Sevens,) and Byron Myers (Lizard People,) were present throughout to dish out unwarranted punishment and degrade the health of their joints. Miller propped from the full-squat position to compete for scrum space with world's largest toddler David Watters. Woodcock nearly slotted a penalty from his own half, only missing at the last second because the uprights were built thirty meters to the left of his kick a year ago. Ryan Kitaif fought somebody. Probably Crosby.
Legendary enforcer of many codes of law, Dan "Thunder" Hayden was the proud police pillager of five points on the day as he brutally tazed his way through Andrew Slater and Abel Montes to score a cop try before arresting college prop Randal Aldana in front of his mother. Gabriel Guindon and Cory Williams were everywhere on pitch, and squashed numerous uprisings against their harsh and unfair rule in the outside backs. Morgan Kerr swerved through every lane of traffic for 14 hours on his drive down from Maine to finally crash head-on into the Guilford uprights, throwing himself through the windshield and landing face down on a ball that had been worked into the tryzone, earning himself 5 points and a trip to Moses Cone hospital.
Wing Derek Loehr and fullback Cody Martin combined on several occasions to return counter-attacks and make all the right knock-ons. Their kicks and runs were effective and nullified young 15 Joel Popkin's ability to break through the defense or into local politics. Loehr's shoulder did not come out once, and Cody came out at the social. John "Two-brace" Stephenson left both braces in his kit bag, but did well to prevent attacks down the touchline and acquire attractive bruises before his upcoming wedding. John is wished well, and hopefully he keeps his children away from rugby. Self-proclaimed "Beer Coaches" Max George and Nick Hunter made nonsensical substitutions between irrational complaints, and neither one of the injured duo hurt themselves further while surveying the battle.
Detestable Ben Snyder scored the last meaningful try of the scrap, which went a long way toward redeeming his many failures on the pitch and in life. Kohout converted on three out of four in the wet, sealing the alumni contribution at 26 points. He and Pugliese, Hayden, Guindon, Stephenson, Kerr, Williams, Martin, Loehr, Harry Lorello, and others all put together shows of ball movement in the back line that made no sense given the wet conditions or the relative skill of any member in that combination. Lorello made several forays into action, gaining ground with forty-meter runs and eighty-proof breath. Max Kochinke was uncatchable and ran such a commanding game at halfback that he lost his voice completely. That was preferable, however, to Matt Elverson's lost dignity at #8 due to his now classic "kick from anywhere" strategy. Speaking of #8's with zero dignity, Tyler Cope made a lot of money for those who placed bets that he would make zero passes, but used his head as a battering ram for the unholy goals of his horde.
These nomadic Alums traveled from as far as Nantucket, Texas, and the West Coast just to collectively spite their former teammates and current standard bearers. The annual victory tally now stands at 1-1, with next year's rubber match already anticipated as Guilford Rugby hastily outpaces every season behind it, and every alum grows colder, more wicked, and another year closer to death.
PICTURES COMING SOON
Thursday, September 24, 2009
2nd Annual Alumni Game this weekend!
On Saturday the Guilford Men will host past graduates and dropouts in the 2nd annual Alumni Game. Last November's inauguration was quite successful and the alumni anticipate fielding a stronger side this year with access to a wealth of skilled ruggers from the 2009 graduating class. The Guilford Rugby Alumni Association, founded last year by alumn Ben Snyder, Nick Hunter, and Drew Gottlieb has been a growing success and in an unprecedented move of sober charity they will host the current team to a post-game banquet where the Woodcock Award (for Most Valuable Player of the previous season, currently in possession of 2007 recipient Nick Hunter) will be passed on to the next Guilford rugby legend-to-be.
Everyone come out to the pitch at 1 for the women's game against Wake Forest and 3 for the 2nd ever Guilford Men's Rugby Alumni game. Broken alumn Nick Hunter and the new shoulda-boy Max George will be getting sloppy all day on the sidelines, please do not listen to anything they have to say, sir. Expect to see names long forgotten (a certain Tito?) and skills long past (T-Cope ain't got no juice) on display and don't worry, even if the kids win the battle the alumni are undefeated in the post-match social. Who knows, maybe even George Huber will shoot-the-boot this year!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Guilford Off to Strong Autumn Start
Guilford 15-14 Triad Men
Guilford 10-10 Elon
Guilford Rugby looks to boast the strongest competitive side in the club's history this year. The Quakers did enough to secure a win over 2008 D3 South Finalists Triad Rugby and drew with last year's top North Carolina D3 college club Elon Phoenix. What's more is they have also achieved a new goal for 2009 fall friendly matches, blooding as many new players as possible for a full second half.
Evolutions in the team are everywhere. The pack troubled a vastly larger Triad team in the scrum, often driving them backwards during their own put-ins, and winning all their own ball. Against Elon the Quaker pack won nearly every scrum of the day, no matter whose feed. Back row forwards have done excellent work in the rucks and cleanly transitioned to enhancing backline play with their presence. Flanker Kevin Smithey in particular has taken ownership of several touch-line sprints for impressive meterage. Now iconic in Guilford's forward crew, hooker Abel Montes de Oca has returned for what may be his last year at Guilford. The stout leader's beard alone has been said to deserve the #2 shirt.
A revelation for Guilford has come in the play of the back three unit, which now shows structured counter-attacks and fields high kicks well. Two tries in the match versus Triad came by way of fullback Maxwell George's clever play. Wingers for the team are almost entirely new, but offer some surprising athleticism and are taking to the game better than expected. Perhaps where Guilford looks strongest, however, is in the inside backs. Flyhalf Sean McNally has instantly meshed with his new team and showed his 6 years of rugby experience with classy distribution to the centers and smart probing with ball in hand. The pairing of McNally and former NCRU All-Star David McKindley-Ward (at 13) in the line was disastrous for Triad, who were fortunate to have no fewer than three tries averted by untimely penalties. McKindley-Ward, who scored Guilford's only try against a very tough Elon side, will be absent for much of the coming season, however, as he looks to gain experience in Ireland during the rest of the fall. His return for the Spring Matrix will be felt. Meanwhile, strong inside center Harrison Anthony has returned from a sidelining illness last year to bring much appreciated physicality and vision to the unit.
The pitfalls of the club so far have been dropped balls and growing pains. Tries that are deserved go unscored when needless 50-50 passes wind up on the wrong side of 50, and intently giving more than a few completely new players entire halves against proven and talented sides is always a risk. Guilford vs. Elon was frought with these kinds of passes and the score reflected it. The payoff, however, is a club that is closer-bound and will boast more depth when it is needed. Among other lessons of the last year, the Quakers have learned that the spring academic calendar can claim players as easily as injuries can, and the club has seen fit to let the fall friendlies play out as they may while rookies are given the proper grooming.
The club will only improve when Bryce Bjornson steps up to take back the reigns at center when McKindley-Ward vacations, and Max George's return from a shoulder injury should galvanize the group further.
Guilford will now look to fend off a very impressive Alumni selection this coming weekend.
Match Report by Nick "Too Broke to Battle" Hunter, Photos by Sarah Thabalt
Monday, September 14, 2009
Guilford 15, Triad 14
This Saturday Guilford Men's Rugby kicked off their fall friendly season with an improbable 15-14 home win over Greensboro's DIII elite men's team, Triad Rugby. In what can only be described as a team effort Guilford dispelled rumors of a lack of organization and preparation this year after losing 8 graduating seniors in May. Senior fullback Max George touched-down two tries and junior outside center David McKindley-Ward converted one and added a penalty to the tally in one of the most grueling matches in recent Guilford rugby history. George and senior flanker Kevin Smithey, who played like a man possessed on the weak side, were awarded Men of the Match.
Full match report to follow. Thanks to everyone who came to support, hope to y'all for this coming weekend's home game against Elon!
Full match report to follow. Thanks to everyone who came to support, hope to y'all for this coming weekend's home game against Elon!
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Guilford Rugby back in full swing
With the start of the 2009/2010 school year, Guilford Rugby wasted no time getting back on the pitch and shaking off the summer dust from their boots. Captains Slater (forwards) and Joel (backs) are delighted to welcome more than 10 brand new payers, mostly first-years, to fill in the gaps left by a very talented graduating class.
Perhaps the most exciting addition, however, is junior transfer Sean McNally, who has 6 years of experience with game and most recently played with Boston in the USA Super League. Sean will replace David "Superstar" McKindley-Ward, who's going to be drinking whiskey and growing his beard in Ireland this fall, at flyhalf for the semester. Although a little afraid of our boys' off-field antics at times (i.e. Sean has declined all make-out offers from other teammates so far), Sean is getting on just fine on the pitch and the backline is looking formidable, with returning centers Bryce Bjornson and Harry Anthony, fullback Maxwell George, winger Paul McCoullough and Joel Popkin, who will move to scrumhalf to replace recent graduate Max Kochinke.
The pack welcomes back world-destroyer/#1 Dad Abel Montes de Oca at hooker after his semester hiatus. With returners Randall Aldana, David "Under the Bridge" Watters, Kevin "The Lips" Smithey, Graybird, Air Crosby, Will "Manchild" Dawson, Alex Knox, Teddybear, and Slater, the pack shouldn't look too different from last year.
On Saturday the boys had an inner-squad scrimmage and followed it up with a season-opening joint social with the lovely ladies of Guilford's women's side. The 9-on-9 game gave the new guys a chance to get dirty and get lit up by Slater and it showed the experienced players how out of shape they actually are. A sizable crowd of rugby fans showed up to watch and afterward congratulations and beerulations were shared with everyone. Recognition was given to brand new ruggers of the game Kevin, of the new forwards, and Dave, of the new backs, who both showed tremendous potential in the budding stages of their careers.
In other news, the highly anticipated innaugural Guilford Men's Rugby nude calendar will be coming out this week! The calendars, which will be sold at $15 each with all proceeds going towards the social fund, features players from last year's team and Teddy Bear himself on the cover. Anyone interested in the first run of 100 calendars find Bryce.
And lastly, here's a look at the fall match schedule. Our first 4 games in a row will be here at Guilford, including the fall highlight, the second annual Alumni game on Sept. 26.
9/12 1pm: Triad @ Guilford
9/19 12pm: Elon @ Guilford
9/26 1pm: Alumni Match @ Guilford
10/3 Rucktoberfest (App St)
10/10 1pm: UNC Charlotte @ Guilford
10/31 NCRU Tournament
11/7 Guilford @ Duke
11/14 Guilford @ Eno River
11/20 Guilford @ NC State
See y'all on the pitch.
#15
Perhaps the most exciting addition, however, is junior transfer Sean McNally, who has 6 years of experience with game and most recently played with Boston in the USA Super League. Sean will replace David "Superstar" McKindley-Ward, who's going to be drinking whiskey and growing his beard in Ireland this fall, at flyhalf for the semester. Although a little afraid of our boys' off-field antics at times (i.e. Sean has declined all make-out offers from other teammates so far), Sean is getting on just fine on the pitch and the backline is looking formidable, with returning centers Bryce Bjornson and Harry Anthony, fullback Maxwell George, winger Paul McCoullough and Joel Popkin, who will move to scrumhalf to replace recent graduate Max Kochinke.
The pack welcomes back world-destroyer/#1 Dad Abel Montes de Oca at hooker after his semester hiatus. With returners Randall Aldana, David "Under the Bridge" Watters, Kevin "The Lips" Smithey, Graybird, Air Crosby, Will "Manchild" Dawson, Alex Knox, Teddybear, and Slater, the pack shouldn't look too different from last year.
On Saturday the boys had an inner-squad scrimmage and followed it up with a season-opening joint social with the lovely ladies of Guilford's women's side. The 9-on-9 game gave the new guys a chance to get dirty and get lit up by Slater and it showed the experienced players how out of shape they actually are. A sizable crowd of rugby fans showed up to watch and afterward congratulations and beerulations were shared with everyone. Recognition was given to brand new ruggers of the game Kevin, of the new forwards, and Dave, of the new backs, who both showed tremendous potential in the budding stages of their careers.
In other news, the highly anticipated innaugural Guilford Men's Rugby nude calendar will be coming out this week! The calendars, which will be sold at $15 each with all proceeds going towards the social fund, features players from last year's team and Teddy Bear himself on the cover. Anyone interested in the first run of 100 calendars find Bryce.
And lastly, here's a look at the fall match schedule. Our first 4 games in a row will be here at Guilford, including the fall highlight, the second annual Alumni game on Sept. 26.
9/12 1pm: Triad @ Guilford
9/19 12pm: Elon @ Guilford
9/26 1pm: Alumni Match @ Guilford
10/3 Rucktoberfest (App St)
10/10 1pm: UNC Charlotte @ Guilford
10/31 NCRU Tournament
11/7 Guilford @ Duke
11/14 Guilford @ Eno River
11/20 Guilford @ NC State
See y'all on the pitch.
#15
Friday, May 22, 2009
Summer Sevens
The Guilford Hussars sevens team will be attending two tournaments: Cape Fear Sevens in Wilmington and Bele Chere Sevens in Asheville.
Some pictures from last years team:
Some pictures from last years team:
Monday, April 27, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Guilford End Season with Come from Behind Win
Guilford - 33 UNCG - 22
After a one month rugby hiatus the Quakers ended their season this past Saturday with a win over UNC-Greensboro. Early on the Guilford backline struggled to contain a very quick UNCG fullback. In the second half Guilford returned fire with hard running from strong centers and an all star flyhalf. The Quaker pack put forth an impressive effort all day; winning lineouts early on and taking several scrums against the head.
The Quakers long absence from play was apparent early in the first half. The Quakers sloppy play within the first ten minutes allowed the Spartans an early shot at goal. The kick was wide however leaving the score at 0-0. After a few more minutes of back and forth play UNCG’s fullback streaked down the sideline, avoiding multiple tackles to put the Spartans up 7-0. The Spartan fullback would soon make a similar run, fending off a tackle to score yet another try giving UNCG a 12 point lead.
After about 20 minutes Guilford finally seemed to find their rhythm, putting the ball through their backs hands. Several good phases placed the Quakers well inside UNCG’s 22. Flyhalf Davie McKindley-Ward found a gap in the Spartan defense line scoring the Quakers first try of the day. Davie converted his own try to leave the Guilford with a 5 point deficit. UNCG’s fullback would strike again however, making another impressive run into Guilford territory. The fullback offloaded the ball to a loose forward who touched the ball down for the third UNCG try of the half. The conversion was missed leaving the Spartans with a ten point lead going into the break. (UNCG-17 Guilford-7)
Half time
Guilford would continue their reputation as a second half team however. Within the first few minutes of the half senior 8-man Matt Elverson made an impressive run, touching the ball down between the posts. A conversion by Davie McKindley-Ward left the score at 17-14. During the second half Guilford began to utilize their powerful centers to attack the UNCG line. Center Evan “Sunshine” Flanders had an impressive run only to be stopped a few meters short of the tryline. A pickup by center Bryce Bjornson put the ball within a meter, but still no Guilford try. After several phases of strong rucking and crash runs by the Quaker forwards flanker Kevin Smithey was able to dive through to give Guilford their first lead of the day. Another converted try by Davie, put the score at 21-17 with Guilford in the lead.
UNCG soon responded with yet another strong run by their fullback who touched down another try leaving him with a hat trick. A missed conversion left the Spartans leading by a single point with the score at UNCG- 22 Guilford-21. Guilford’s flyhalf Davie McKindley-Ward was soon able to exploit another gap in the Spartan defense touching down his second try putting the score at 28-22 with Guilford in the lead.
UNCG refused to lay down though and the Quakers spent much of the last 20 minutes defending. Guilford’s forwards were able to push back the larger UNCG pack a number of times winning many essential scrums. Guilford caught a break, after a UNCG grubber went into the try zone, and the winger stepped out to touch before grounding the ball. Another try was prevented when fullback Cody Martin intercepted a UNCG pass from only a few meters out. After successfully defending for several minutes the Quakers were finally able to increase their narrow lead when after a few passes the ball found its way into the hands of center Bryce Bjornson. Bryce made an impressive 50 meter run toward the tryline. Though he apparently pulled his hamstring during the run Bjornson was able to limp the last few meters to touch down the ball with no time remaining. Davie McKindley-Ward missed his first conversion of the day leaving the final score at Guilford -- 33 UNCG -- 22.
After a one month rugby hiatus the Quakers ended their season this past Saturday with a win over UNC-Greensboro. Early on the Guilford backline struggled to contain a very quick UNCG fullback. In the second half Guilford returned fire with hard running from strong centers and an all star flyhalf. The Quaker pack put forth an impressive effort all day; winning lineouts early on and taking several scrums against the head.
The Quakers long absence from play was apparent early in the first half. The Quakers sloppy play within the first ten minutes allowed the Spartans an early shot at goal. The kick was wide however leaving the score at 0-0. After a few more minutes of back and forth play UNCG’s fullback streaked down the sideline, avoiding multiple tackles to put the Spartans up 7-0. The Spartan fullback would soon make a similar run, fending off a tackle to score yet another try giving UNCG a 12 point lead.
After about 20 minutes Guilford finally seemed to find their rhythm, putting the ball through their backs hands. Several good phases placed the Quakers well inside UNCG’s 22. Flyhalf Davie McKindley-Ward found a gap in the Spartan defense line scoring the Quakers first try of the day. Davie converted his own try to leave the Guilford with a 5 point deficit. UNCG’s fullback would strike again however, making another impressive run into Guilford territory. The fullback offloaded the ball to a loose forward who touched the ball down for the third UNCG try of the half. The conversion was missed leaving the Spartans with a ten point lead going into the break. (UNCG-17 Guilford-7)
Half time
Guilford would continue their reputation as a second half team however. Within the first few minutes of the half senior 8-man Matt Elverson made an impressive run, touching the ball down between the posts. A conversion by Davie McKindley-Ward left the score at 17-14. During the second half Guilford began to utilize their powerful centers to attack the UNCG line. Center Evan “Sunshine” Flanders had an impressive run only to be stopped a few meters short of the tryline. A pickup by center Bryce Bjornson put the ball within a meter, but still no Guilford try. After several phases of strong rucking and crash runs by the Quaker forwards flanker Kevin Smithey was able to dive through to give Guilford their first lead of the day. Another converted try by Davie, put the score at 21-17 with Guilford in the lead.
UNCG soon responded with yet another strong run by their fullback who touched down another try leaving him with a hat trick. A missed conversion left the Spartans leading by a single point with the score at UNCG- 22 Guilford-21. Guilford’s flyhalf Davie McKindley-Ward was soon able to exploit another gap in the Spartan defense touching down his second try putting the score at 28-22 with Guilford in the lead.
UNCG refused to lay down though and the Quakers spent much of the last 20 minutes defending. Guilford’s forwards were able to push back the larger UNCG pack a number of times winning many essential scrums. Guilford caught a break, after a UNCG grubber went into the try zone, and the winger stepped out to touch before grounding the ball. Another try was prevented when fullback Cody Martin intercepted a UNCG pass from only a few meters out. After successfully defending for several minutes the Quakers were finally able to increase their narrow lead when after a few passes the ball found its way into the hands of center Bryce Bjornson. Bryce made an impressive 50 meter run toward the tryline. Though he apparently pulled his hamstring during the run Bjornson was able to limp the last few meters to touch down the ball with no time remaining. Davie McKindley-Ward missed his first conversion of the day leaving the final score at Guilford -- 33 UNCG -- 22.
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