ruckmemaulme

I was always athletic; having played soccer throughout my youth and running track and cross-country in High School.  I loved playing sports. I just was never quite good enough to be scouted by colleges.  That never upset me.  Some people were meant to be pro sports players and I was not.  I wanted to be a doctor anyway so I mostly played in H.S. for fun and to release stress.

So how on earth did I start playing rugby?  It all began when I was a young tyke playing soccer.  I was always told that I was a little too aggressive for community league soccer.  Maybe it was my enjoyment in making my opponents cry; maybe it was the league record two red cards and six yellow cards in a single season.  I was taller, stronger, and meaner than my fifth grade compatriots and I wasn’t afraid to utilize my mass advantage.

It was my sixth grade coach that told me in jest “You really should play rugby.  Soccer isn’t the right sport for you.”  So when a nonameface handed me a flyer during a freshman welcome event, I was interested.  When I returned to my dorm I googled rugby and rugby videos.  I watched the All-Blacks’ Haka, the Springboks murder the Eagles, and some ‘best of’ tackle reels. Holy crap.  That was my kind of game!  I signed up immediately.

My cool freshman roommate went to the first practice with me.  I learned the basics of the game and how to tackle.  At the end of the game we were all taught a song.  Already hooked just by watching the game, the sociability and intensity of the practice sealed the deal.   It was like an addict’s first bump; I had to have more.  And here I am, three years later, still loving and playing the game.