A New Holy War: BYU Rugby vs. St. Mary's

The  St. Mary's College Gaels meet BYU in the 2012 Holy War. 

It's happening this Saturday at high noon ... an inevitably epic clash of two saintly schools: our LDS-Church-owned Brigham Young University with it's #1-ranked team faces the Roman-Catholic-Church-affiliated Saint Mary's College of California with it's #2-ranked team. As both programs look to claim the national spotlight of college rugby, it's interesting to compare both schools and note that both share similarities that one may not immediately expect ... which makes the potential potency of this match that much greater than other rugby matches to date.

Read on, skeptics ... read on.

Founded in 1863 by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese, St. Mary's College "holds that the mystery which inspires wonder about the nature of existence is revealed in the person of Jesus Christ giving a transcendent meaning to creation and human existence. Nourished by its Christian faith, the College understands the intellectual and spiritual journeys of the human person to be inextricably connected. It promotes the dialogue of faith and reason: it builds community among its members through the celebration of the church's sacramental life; it defends the goodness, dignity and freedom of each person, and fosters sensitivity to social and ethical concerns."

Brigham Young University, founded in 1875, maintains that "any education is inadequate which does not emphasize that [Jesus Christ] is the only name given under heaven whereby mankind can be saved. Certainly all relationships within the BYU community should reflect devout love of God and a loving, genuine concern for the welfare of our neighbor. Because the gospel encourages the pursuit of all truth, students at BYU should receive a broad university education. The arts, letters, and sciences provide the core of such an education, which will help students think clearly, communicate effectively, understand important ideas in their own cultural tradition as well as that of others, and establish clear standards of intellectual integrity."

Perhaps more compelling in relative similarity than these excerpts from both schools' mission statements are the unofficial but nearly identical mottoes each espouses: "Enter to learn, go forth to serve" (BYU), and "Enter to Learn, leave to Serve" (St. Mary's).

Uncanny enough for you??? Go figure ... but hey, I didn't make this stuff up; it's real, folks.

Now, I never thought I'd stop talking up Cal as the biggest threat to the establishment of the BYU Rugby Kingdom ... but, given that the Bears are done and gone from the top spot, perhaps it is only appropriate that a similarly-founded religious school rise up to present the clearest challenge to BYU ... and fittingly, they're still from California!

Thus it is, my friends. The new Holy War is here. Saints versus Saints. Mormons versus Catholics. Blue & White against Blue & Red. The Best pitted against the Best to determine who is truly the Best of the Best. :) 

Think it sounds crazy and far-fetched? Think I'm just stirring the pot here and really straining for something substantive to share?? Think that each school's religious background has absolutely nothing to do with rugby???

Hey, that's fine ... just go and confront either one of these teams with that position, and let me know how it goes for you!!!

But if you're still dubious and demanding to see the stats, then here's some more surprise for you: they're nearly equal!

First off, BYU's roster lists 8 freshmen, 18 sophomores, 10 juniors, and 16 seniors for a total of 52 players.  St. Mary's roster lists 13 freshmen, 19 sophomores, 15 juniors, and 19 seniors for a total of 66 players.  And while the latter of these two rosters obviously counts with an additional depth of 14 players, nevertheless one could argue that what the former lacks in total numbers is made up for in experience.  The vast majority of the St. Mary's squad is from California with only two players claiming international origins while BYU's less numerous squad boasts at least ten to fifteen players of direct or indirect international origins. Not much different than the Cal-BYU lineups of old ... and (sadly) we all know who came out on top in those meetings!  Ahhh!!! ...  Still trying to forget Cal ... so, let's move on.

To date, St. Mary's has put up 506 points to opponents' 112 points in nine matches. BYU has put up 476 points to opponents' 97 points in eight matches. That's an average of 56.2 points scored per game with 12.4 allowed by St. Mary's, and 59.5 points per game and 12.1 allowed by BYU. For every point scored by an opponent, BYU scores 4.9 points while St. Mary's scores 4.5. Pretty dang close! 

Granted, BYU has overcome tough opponents in Rugby Super League men's teams, Old Puget Sound Beach and the Denver Barbarians ... But also take into account that St. Mary's hasn't had some cushy schedule this year either; rather, they have bested premier D-I men's team Olympic Club and the near-Cal-equal University of Utah. Their only loss has come to Cal's oldest rival, the University of British Columbia (whom Cal only beat by one point this year).

No question about it ... this is War, my beloved BYU Rugby fans ... and we might as well call it 'Holy', since I have no doubt that both sides are going to be praying their hearts out to see the final tally come out in their favor! Whichever side wins, they might be tempted to claim it as a manifestation of God's will ... but, of course, any true rugby fan knows that such cannot be the case, for He doesn't take sides when it comes to His favorite sport! ... We can still hope for some divine support though, right?  :D

That said, no official prediction here, but I'll share some quick thoughts. On the one hand, the numbers make it look uber-close with a 5- or even 3-point margin of victory a real possibility. If St. Mary's truly puts up a formidable defensive and offensive effort, and if it's a rainy day, then I wouldn't be surprised to see this one being ground out in the forwards, with an above-average amount of the pick-and-go from the breakdown and more frequent attempts to maul down the field. Who gets the advantage? I say, "BYU", you say, "St. Mary's ... ceteris paribus, and it's the same as "puh-tay-toe", "puh-tah-toe". Unfortunately, there's no recent history of (any?) previous match-ups between the two schools from which to even postulate the outcome. So ... maybe your guess is just as good as mine.

Then again, my gut tells me that BYU might just pull away and rack up a number of tries over St. Mary's for a more convincing W. If given solid opportunities to receive clean ball-in-hand, surely our stacked back-line will eventually make mincemeat of any opposing defenders! And if BYU's numbers I through XV are firing on all cylinders, then forget about it, folks ... heck, if that's the case, I'll start saying a few Hail Mary's to petition for the Gaels' cause as well! :D  Let's hope this latter scenario is the case ...

In conclusion, let me set aside any potential sacrilege or offense here expressed and sincerely state that I (and hopefully all my fellow BYU Rugby fanatics) have the utmost respect for St. Mary's College, especially as a fellow academic institution of faith based in Our Lord and Savior and as a fellow elite-level college rugby team striving for ultimate success. What more can I say? Good luck to the Gaels this Saturday.

Finally, to Our Boys, even our Ironclad Cougars, allow me to offer a selection of simple lines from the hymn:

"And now the foe advancing,
That valiant host assails,
And yet they never falter;
Their courage never fails.
Their Leader calls, “Be faithful!”
They pass the word along;
They see his signal flashing
And shout their joyful song:

"Victory, victory,
Thru him that redeemed us!
Victory, victory,
Thru Jesus Christ, our Lord!
Victory, victory, victory,
Thru Jesus Christ, our Lord!"

Push onward to victory, My Brothers, united in faith and courage!

Let the BYU Rugby standard never wilt in defeat but ever wave proud and victorious to usher in The Kingdom!!

BYU Rugby Forever!!!
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BYU RUGBY 2012: THE KINGDOM

Flyhalf Dylan Lubbe in preseason action (Photo courtesy of Paul Meyers)

It's here ... there's no escaping it ...

The 2012 season of BYU Rugby is upon us ... and though Our Boys, our beloved Cougars, are already administering justice upon the opposition (defeating Central Washington yesterday, 76-7), nevertheless this season represents the beginning of an era, even a new reign of dominance not to be ignored.  With the ever-lauded Golden Bears of Cal-Berkeley voluntarily stepping down and out of D-1A college rugby, and inevitably relinquishing the throne to BYU, the Kingdom is come ... the Reign of BYU Rugby is at hand!!!

Okay mates, all sacrilege aside and whatever Cal's reasons for leaving, you've got to admit that we're witnessing the advent of a new BYU Rugby dynasty.  In the immediate short term, the Golden Bears dodge the bullet of having to attempt to win another National Title in BYU's backyard against an obviously-loaded Cougar squad.  But in the longer term, where do they go?  Fifteen players-a-side is Cal's bread and butter, so ... what's next for the grizzly long hairs from the Bay Area??

Here's a hint: No more designation as 'National Champions' or as the 'Premier College Rugby Team of America'.  That title now belongs to BYU by default, and I would submit that it will remain there for a good, long time.  Never mind that Cal didn't put up a fight ... shoot, they didn't even raise up the white flag!  It's like they snuck off with the kids and the car in the dead of night without so much as leaving a note!!

Uhhh ... well ... okay then ... good riddance!!  I guess we'll be forced to inherit the mansion and family fortune!!!

Don't get me wrong, Cal-Berkeley's separation from the college rugby spotlight will come at a cost. There will be some whining and posturing for a continued monopoly on the sparse media coverage available to rugby in the U.S.  Even still, what will be Cal's saving grace?  Their "World Cup" series with the University of British Columbia?  No, I highly doubt it.  No one cares much about it besides their constituents, just the same as how no one outside of BYU and Utah cares about the Wasatch Cup.  And even if Cal is still perceived to be the best team in the nation, it won't matter and it won't last.  There are a number of university teams up north in Canada that are better than either Cal or BYU ... but guess what, folks?  No one here in the U.S. knows or cares about them!  Why?  Because they don't belong to the same collective of teams here and thus cannot be deemed champion thereof!!  They fall outside the realm of our immediate consideration ... so they don't matter!!!

Cal could go on a tour of Japan, beating all of the premier college teams in the land, and it wouldn't earn them much more than a pat on the back as far as the American rugby community at large is concerned. To be the best among your peers and be recognized as such, you've got to beat your best peers ... period.  Not some foreigners that no one can relate to, let alone name.  Suffice it to say that the Golden Age of Cal-Berkeley is fast going the way of the dodo ... and they have only themselves to blame.

To our most great and worthy opponents, let us graciously bid them a heartfelt 'adieu'.

Now, fast-forward to this year's coming National Title match in Rio Tinto Stadium ... a Cal-less, Bear-en final? Really?? It's almost unthinkable, I know, but that's about the size of it ... so, let's move on and accept the fact.

And what of those BYU Cougars with their 25- and 30-year-old, professional foreign players the size of Texas?!? (*cough*) Surely they won't be there again, will they?!?!? ... Oh yes, my beloved rugby community, they'll be there, crazy Superfans and all in tow ... you can count on it!!!  They won't be quitting the highest-level competition anytime soon, if ever ...

Remember that 2009 squad?  Yeah, the National-Champion one??  Well, we've got a number of those guys that were freshmen at the time who are now back from serving LDS missions and are ready to steamroll the competition.  Most notably, the formidable Paul Lasike is back, as a back, to once again instruct opposing teams in the art of rugby dominance, Kiwi-style.  Additionally, my favorite freshmen phenoms of 2009, the speedy back Jordan Lowry and the tenacious lock/flanker Kyle Sumsion, are back to do it again in 2012.

Also returning from missions and deserving of mention are the fast and dependable backs Austin Allred and Will Taylor, as well as reserve forwards Dave Rowley, Dan Selman and Collin Bush who didn't actually see much playing time in '09 but will be looking to step up and break out of the woodwork to challenge for a starting position.

Add to the pot a plethora of other new and old players with a wealth of potential, and we're looking at the 2012 National Champions, folks!!!  Behold, the Kingdom ...


8-man Ryan Roundy on yet another breakaway run (Paul Meyers Photo)

Alright, before jumping the gun completely, allow me to make especial mention of three Cougars who, despite playing for BYU at different times in the last five years, have never hoisted the gold medal: Lock TJ Allred started in 2007 as well as in 2010, experiencing firsthand the taste of defeat to Cal on both occasions; Lock Brett Clark similarly experienced falling to the Bears in 2008 as a freshman; and even our great all-star No. 8 Ryan Roundy has never felt the exhilaration of National-Championship victory, most recently coming up short against Cal-Berkeley in 2010 and 2011.  Look for these forwards to be the unrelenting work horses of the season ... because for them, the deeply-imbued embers of desire have not yet enjoyed full ignition into roaring flames of National-Title glory ... the time is at hand ... the day has arrived for this fire to be loosed upon the pitch!

My friends, enough of this mucking about!  Let's get to the heart of it ... forget the Cal mystique; it's over!!  The BYU Men's Rugby team is not only here to stay, but the claim they staked at the top long ago has now come due. This year, even 2012, the fabled 'end of the world', in fact only represents a new beginning, the ushering in of a new age of college rugby in America ... and not surprisingly, there stands BYU, fast at the helm!!!

For thine is the kingdom,
and the power,
and the glory,
BYU Rugby Forever!!! 

Amen.
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Know Thy Enemy ... Know Thyself

For those of us who are serious BYU Rugby fans, even BYU Rugby Superfans, there's really only one opponent out there who means anything to us. No, sorry folks, I'm not talking about that pack of Redskins up north ... Competitive though they are in rugby, the Utes haven't really shown that they are fit for a National Title bid in recent years and hence don't quite register as Public Enemy Number One as far as BYU is concerned.

No, my friends, I'm referring to that great Gold and Blue Beast that somehow snatches away the coveted National Championship trophy, year in and year out. What's their secret? Why are they so good? How do they do it? Who are they? Where can I get some of their magic potion??? The questions are endless, yet anyone even semi-familiar with the Golden Bears of Cal-Berkeley knows the general answer ... It's a conspiracy!!!

Take a look at a recent article on their team website, and you'll see what I mean:  

Bears Welcome 17 Freshmen: New Players for 130th Year of Team

You don't have to read between the lines to see the writing on the wall here ... heck, even the title says it all! 17 Freshmen recruits? Most teams are lucky to get 3 with any experience ... 130 years since the team's founding??  I don't even know many teams that have existed for more than 30 or 40 years ... Seriously??? There's got to be something fishy going on here ... Or is it all just Cal Rugby as usual? Hmmm ...

If I were to paint a picture of the typical American college rugby team's organization, it would probably look like a drab and murky blob of indistinguishable color, shape, perspective, and even purpose. Harsh as that may sound, it's the truth. On the other hand, here's what the Cal picture looks like:

Read through the above-linked article ... See how many of the player profiles say "son of Cal alum" or something similar. You can just feel how there is obviously more going on behind the scenes with alumni relationships, recruiting, and most importantly, the establishment of a standard. Cal Rugby means doing and being the best in everything. There is no conspiracy, no fuzzy math, no question about it. The expectations are high ... always ... period.

So ... what about the BYU Cougars? Who are we? Where are our alumni? What are we doing? How are we so successful* in rugby? (*excluding National Championship Finals) What is our standard? How high are our expectations? How clear and crisp is our program's picture?

Again, there are many questions ... but I would submit, my fellow BYU Rugby friends, that we all know the answers ... collectively, at least ... but what are we doing about it?

Are we merely a team of Mormons from Utah or are we a mix of players and fans all over the Nation and the World? Are the BYU Cougars merely the American-college-knockoff version of the New Zealand All Blacks or are they something unique unto themselves? Do we have an alumni organization, and if so, where is it? What does it do? Do we want to see BYU win a National Title without paying for a ticket or are we encouraging our kids to go to the next BYU Rugby Summer Camp? Do we really want BYU Rugby to achieve victory or to just participate for the "experience"? How high do we want to climb? How long do we want to be there when we make it? Why? Why does it matter?

Brothers and sisters, ladies and gentleman, BYU Rugby Fans, we are a Family; we are proud of each other; we personally and collectively care about one another's successes and failures.

On a personal note, two years stand out in my mind ... two final games that hold significant meaning for me: 2006 and 2009. I wish the former occasion would have been the setting for as much pride and joy as was experienced on the latter occasion, but it was not.

In 2006, BYU had one of the best, most-talented teams ever seen before in college rugby. Even critics and coaches alike affirmed the fact. For the first time in the BYU Rugby program's history, the team made it to the National Title match against none other than UC Berkeley.

I badly wanted to attend the match but did not think I was able to afford the trip. My older brother, Craig, was starting at lock for the team, and I wanted nothing more than to see him succeed and be rewarded for his hard work over the years. He was the pioneer of rugby in our family. The two of us helped start the first rugby club in our town; we knew what it was like to lose in a championship final, and we didn't want to experience that bad taste in our mouths ever again.

The match was incredibly close. BYU made a strong second-half comeback to put the score within 3 points of victory. BYU's final drive came so close to success. There was no shortage of close calls, no lack of guts or unfailing hope for the win. Yet, win they did not ...

That was a tough day for me, because I knew how tough it was for my brother. We never had much outside of each other, and so each other's success meant that much more to us. To get so close to victory and then be deprived of it almost seemed unfair; it was such a sickening feeling.

Turn the page to 2009 ...

The BYU Rugby team was having a great season, looking more strong and dynamic than they had in previous years. Though it was the first time in a long while that I did not have a brother on the team, nevertheless I had made a commitment to myself to support the team more so than I had done in the past. I made it personal.

Again, BYU succeeded in making it to the Final Match against Cal. Again, the match was incredibly close with seemingly numerous setbacks. Yet, Our Boys displayed an incredible resilience, staying in the game to the very end, putting up an unbelievable wall of defense, and maintaining an ever-attacking offense. The result was again a 3-point margin ... however, this time in BYU's favor.

Unforgettable ... in every sense of the word. I was happy; I was emotional; I was overcome by the miracle. I was proud of the team, the coaches, the fans. I was proud of myself, my contributions and efforts, my sacrifices and hopes. I was so glad to have brought my friends to the game, to have them witness what to me was an incredible victory, years in the making. My family couldn't believe it; my brother and other former players who weren't even there struggled to sleep at all that night. The feeling was so validating.

I've wondered at times if my volunteered involvement with and support of the BYU Rugby team is right ... if I should instead be spending my time and means on other pursuits ... But I'm always reminded of those days in 2006 and 2009 when the BYU Men's Rugby team experienced a great loss and a great win. The emotions there were real. And that's when I see how BYU Rugby isn't just some commercial sport that wants my money without seeing my face or knowing my name. Rather, it's directly tied to my family, my friends, my university, my sport ... and even indirectly, to my religion. It's part of my identity, perhaps the most unique part of who I am.

My friends and fellow fans of the BYU Rugby Family, let us join together to make something more than ourselves. We've already got a great thing going here ... the BYU Rugby team and community are the Best of the Best! Let's make sure that we know it, that our friends and family know it, and that even our opposition knows it.

Then, and only then, will we have a clear picture of who we are, what we want to achieve, and how we can achieve it. And if, after everything else, you're still asking yourself, "Why?", then all I can say is, "Come to a game, and you'll see!"

Merry Christmas and BYU Rugby Forever!!!
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Utah Rugby College Showdown: Time to Shine!

In all of Collegiate Rugby in the US, a relative few opportunities exist to compete at a truly-elite-level venue. Many praise and tout the facilities at Stanford, Cal, BYU, or Army, to name a few, as being the best collegiate pitches in the nation. And while such may be the case, nevertheless anything greater than these does not often lend itself to host a collegiate competition, much less in the sport of rugby.

However, once in a long while, once in a few rotations around the sun, the golden opportunity presents itself... the chance to play in one of the most pristine sports arenas in the country!


From the Rio Tinto Stadium website: "This world-class venue seats 20,000 people for Major League Soccer and other sports events. Capacity increases to 25,000 for concerts. Stadium amenities include 32 luxury suites, a 2,000-square foot Stadium Club, 1,000 premium club seats, five locker rooms, a 60-foot Video Board, and ribbon LED boards stretching 200 feet long on both the east and west fascia."

"The carpet-like natural grass field boasts a surface area of 130 yards in length by 90 yards in width and has been developed to sustain a full slate of diverse sports and entertainment activities. The GTF Kentucky Bluegrass surface and root system is engineered by Graff's Turf Farm in Ft. Morgan, Colorado, the supplier of such hallowed fields as Wrigley Field, Lambeau Field, Busch Stadium and Notre Dame Stadium. Laser-graded to 1/100th of an inch across 105,000 square feet, the field was chemically and organically developed specifically for Utah's high-desert climate to ensure optimal growth and durability throughout the entire year."

All I can say, my friends, is "WOW!!!" To all BYU Rugby fans... if ever there were a time to come to a rugby game, to make the trip to watch Our Boys, and to cheer them to victory, that time is NOW! We may not soon again enjoy such an opportunity to see Our Boys play at such an amazing venue... I invite you to join with the BYU Rugby Superfans and me to yell our hearts out in support of Our team in their pursuit of success!

And to all BYU Rugby players... if ever there were a time to give it your best, to rise to the occasion, and to produce your best rugby, that time is NOW! You may not ever again enjoy such an opportunity to play at such an amazing venue in the rest of your lifetime... I encourage you to give ALL of yourself for your team, for your school, and for your loyal supporters in the pursuit of another win over Utah!

Remember: it won't get any easier in the coming weeks... so all the more reason to work harder than ever NOW! Just look to this game: could you have ever dreamed that you would be able to represent BYU at such a time and in such a place??? It's unbelievable...

Nevertheless, the time for dreaming has past; you must now believe and face reality. The regular season is over within a mere week's time, and then it's off to the great struggle of the National Championship Tournament. This match means a second chance, a primer for greater opposition to come. And, to avoid any 'beating around the bush', it represents the time to be your best... because frankly, your best has yet to be seen!

We BYU Rugby fans have great expectations... we know you aren't the same team as last year's, but that's not actually relevant. Why? Because you are a new BYU Men's Rugby team: you have new faces, new strengths, a new Haka. Because we have consistently seen enough of your successes in the past to move beyond believing in your capabilities... that is, we know your potential is great... so show it to us now!!! Stand together as a true team in literal support of one another! Rise up in collective might to withstand and conquer the opposition!! After all, if anyone knows how tough the Utes of Utah are this year, it's you!!!

My friends, in the face of opposition lies opportunity... and this match epitomizes a great opportunity for you, for me, and for the BYU Rugby community as a whole... no question about it. Be there to spur Our Boys on to yet another Cougar victory! BYU Rugby Forever!!!

(Image from RioTintoStadium.com)
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BYU Rugby vs. Utah: March Mayhem!

The time has come... the tale of two universities continues... the epic rivalry between rugby powerhouses BYU and Utah culminates yet again in the month of March with not one but two match meetings!!!


First, within only a matter of hours (1:00 PM, Saturday, March 6), the BYU Rugby team takes their home pitch against the University of Utah to decide the recipient of the coveted Wasatch Cup (live television coverage provided by BYU-TV). The winner earns a direct spot in the Round of 16 for the National Championship playoffs in April, not to mention the pride and respect of their respective schools. The loser... well, they just inherit an extra dose of bad luck (see "Utah Rugby 2009 season"). :P

Second, on March 24th, BYU again meets Utah in an exhibition match to be held in Rio Tinto Stadium (click the link to reserve advance tickets; BYU fans sit in the EAST grandstand with the Superfans, not in the 'club seats' with the red people). The event is actually a double-header with a teaser match between Utah Valley University and Utah State preceding the main event. All in all, it should be a great night for BYU Rugby, for all levels of rugby in Utah, and for the sport in general.

Now, before I get totally crazy and ooze with bias (a little too late, I know) for the Cougars of BYU, let me tell you why this year's Wasatch Cup match won't exactly be a cakewalk... (not that any game against Utah is ever easy, but this one's a heck of a lot more promising than last year's meetings!)

In the Red Corner, we have the Utes of Utah, rejuvenated and ready to come out swinging. After a tough season of unrealized expectations and rebuilding, our red brethren have found some fire in the likes of a few all-star freshmen, namely, Thretton Palamo at flyhalf, Don Pati at scrumhalf, and Naki Angilau at fullback. The former of these boasts an already-impressive résumé, having represented the USA in international level play, both for the US Eagles and US Sevens teams... If that doesn't make sense to you, it essentially means that he's got about as much rugby talent as anyone his age in the nation... and then some. Add to this threat the proven talent of Don Pati and Naki Angilau, two standout players selected to the US Under-20 national team in the last year.

No great mystery here, folks, but I'd be willing to bet that Coach Burdette's putting a lot of faith in these guys to really scramble the BYU defense. So what do you know: Utah will actually have a backline this year! ... I just hope no one, and especially not all, of them are a 'Paul Lasike' type or we may be in for a long night!

As far as the Utah forwards are concerned, I don't really know what to expect. Last year's pack was a sort of hodgepodge group that seemed to bring a general inconsistency in execution. Other than a random mention of their flankers, Mike Kimball and Mike Jeszczak, and lock Scott Metcalf, I'll err on the side of caution and say that they're probably better than last year. After all, they did only barely lose to the University of Victoria, a well-established Canadian team, to the tune of 38-22. So, we'll see what their scrum has to offer... if they 'possess the constitution' to bring it!

In the Blue Corner, we have the Cougars of BYU, our beloved defending National Champions! Coming off of their most successful season ever, BYU counts with a great amount of depth, especially in the forwards... and good thing too, as recent injuries to starting prop, Mike Price, and starting lock, Isikeli Volavola, have turned these two into water boys for now. Anchoring the pack (literally!) nonetheless are big props All-American Mikey Su'a and New Zealand native Ray Forrester, as well as up-and-coming forward Joey Mount at hooker. Coupled with the solid back row of TJ Allred and Mark Bonham at lock, Haini Leaaetoa and Moana Hafoka at flanker, and Ryan Roundy at eight-man, the BYU scrum looks quite potent and prepped for the opposition. According to the most recent interviews, it sounds like our BYU side will be banking on the forwards to produce in dominant fashion (especially, I personally hope and pray, at the set piece!).

As for the backs, oohhhh, those BYU backs, we've got some fun stuff in the pipeline! Yes, it's a bit of a rebuilding season, and yes, a number of key starters have gone the way of graduation and ineligibility... But, remember, we're talking about Our Boys here! 'In the wings', we have Ryan Blaser, younger brother of epic speedster All-American John Blaser, as well as Konner Wiscombe, Sam Wolthius, and impressive freshman Lelann Latu. At center, we have returning starters Viliami Vimahi (Pila the 'Punisher'; see "Destruction of Cal 2009"), Tupu Folau (don't know if he's recouped yet) and Sean Howard, as well as supporter Adam Kuchin. Maybe not the most formidable cast in some critics' opinion but definitely coming together nicely... enough so to keep the Denver Barbarians on their toes last weekend!

And perhaps most lethal for the Cougars is the ever-impressive 'Dynamic Duo' of halfbacks Shaun Davies and Team Captain Dylan Lubbe. Both players contributed greatly to the Cougars' National Title last season and continue in similar fashion. However, seeing as how Utah appears to have an equally amazing 9-10 connection, I wouldn't be surprised if the scrum-to-backline linkage point may well be where all the craziness happens! We know that these four players are deadly in terms of offense, but just how strong will they be on defense? We might just be hearing the clash all the way up in the bleachers! (I honestly hope no ambulances will be necessary) Ahhhh, heaven help us, the suspense is unbearable!!!

As for the later March matchup, folks, I'll have to wait before I go too far out on a limb and say anything overly rash... After all, I've nearly met my quota for the month as is! That and I'm almost completely consumed by the prospects of tomorrow!

Sorry folks, but I'll just have to leave all of us hanging... this should be an amazing and intense match to be sure! Good luck to Our Boys as they take on those pesky Utes! And good luck (with feeble, outstretched hand) to Utah as they come down to Provo to put up with Our Boys, Our Fans, and... one crazy Superfan, of course!!! BYU Rugby Forever!!!
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BYU Rugby: A Bright Future... of Blue and White

As I was leaving the Wilkinson Center today, I happened to glance up at the TV monitor to see some highlights of the BYU Rugby team playing in an ad for the 2009 highlight video... I couldn't help but think of the great things that happened over the course of last year's season... and of the great advances that have occurred for the benefit of the team within the last few months...

Just yesterday, for example, I had the opportunity to speak with newly announced Cougar Rugby Foundation President Aaron Webber (interview forthcoming), and I can assure all alumni and fans in the ranks that the future of BYU Rugby looks bright indeed. This man, a BYU Rugby alum himself, well recognizes the obstacles preventing the team from developing into a full-fledged, self-sustaining program. I am confident, that with Aaron Webber at the helm of the CRF, we can look forward to the BYU Rugby team making great strides to become the program we all envision.

In the same breath, I wish to applaud the BYU Rugby coaching staff for their various efforts to build the rugby team into an established program, especially in the last year. As if winning a National Championship wasn't progress enough, the BYU Rugby team now enjoys a new and improved website with several great features never available in the past... and only more to come in the future.

Add to all of these advances the amazing schedule prepared for the team this season: a game this weekend against an emerging collegiate rugby presence, the University of Delaware; a Homecoming match against our rival Utah for the Wasatch Cup to be broadcast nationwide on BYU-TV; and a later match against the same University of Utah to be held in the 20,000-seat capacity, Rio Tinto Stadium... not to mention the usual playoff and National Tournament games at season's end...

And so, my beloved BYU Rugby Fans near and far, I share with you a bright image of the future... a deep sea of blue and white, spanning the nation over: BYU Rugby fans coming out of the woodwork lining up to embrace the nation's greatest team. It can happen... It will happen... It is happening already, right before our very eyes...

We are truly blessed... all of us: BYU Rugby players, coaches, staff, alumni, fans, friends, and family alike. Though outsiders may scoff as they please, no one close to the team can deny that the camaraderie experienced, the personal developments realized, and the relationships forged all serve to make BYU Rugby more than just a team... more than just a sport... it's a family that forms part of who we are and what we do...

As a member of that wonderful family, I take pride and joy in doing what I can to make it better... and I invite each and every one of you to do the same. After all, you never know what amazing things might happen as a result of your efforts!

Now, as concerning me and mine, well, you already know that we're keeping it 'in the family' from here on out... BYU Rugby Forever, my friends... onward and upward we go!
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BYU Rugby 2010 Preliminary Schedule

Hear ye, hear ye, oh faithful BYU Rugby fans!!! The 2010 College Rugby season is here... and sooner than expected!

Though the BYU Rugby website is currently under construction, BYU Rugby Forever was lucky enough to obtain a preliminary copy of the team's 2010 schedule. (A big 'thank you' to center Sean Howard for the hook-up)

BYU RUGBY 2010 SCHEDULE

JAN 9 - UC Santa Barbara @ Las Vegas, Sunset Park, 12 PM

JAN 23 - Las Vegas Black Jacks (Division 1 Men’s Finalist)

JAN 29 - University of Delaware - Red Rock Tournament @ St. George, UT

JAN 30 - To be announced (TBA) - Red Rock Tournament @ St. George, UT

FEB 6 - Utah State

FEB 12 - Texas A&M @ Las Vegas

FEB 13 - Western Washington @ Las Vegas

FEB 27 - Denver Barbarians (Men’s Super League team)

MARCH 6 - UTAH

MARCH 13 - Colorado

MARCH 20 - TBA

MARCH 24 - UTAH @ Rio Tinto Stadium (Sandy, UT)

MARCH 27 - San Diego State

APRIL 2-3 - PCRFU PLAYOFFS

APRIL 16-17 - National Tournament - ROUNDS OF SIXTEEN & EIGHT

APRIL 30 - National Tournament - SEMIFINALS

MAY 1 - National Tournament - FINAL

Updates will be posted as received, but in the meantime... come out, oh ye loyal Cougars, and support BYU's #1 team: BYU Men's Rugby!!! See you in Vegas this weekend!!!
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BYU Rugby Memories: Drew and Teresa Allred

Our son TJ Allred joined the BYU Rugby Team in January 2007. He completed his mission in June of 2009 and is now with the team again. Our favorite moment in BYU Rugby history is simple. We were able to attend the round of 16 in Oakland in April 2007 and watch him play. It was an absolute thrill to see him dressed in Cougar blue, as my wife and I are BYU alumni.

Just prior to kickoff before the Wyoming game, I was nestled behind the trees (taking pictures) where the cougars were preparing to enter the field. Then to my surprise, I heard the young men sing the primary song "Nephi's Courage" and the words "We have been born of goodly parents"....touched me beyond description.

As I reflect upon this moment, tears come to eyes. That was exactly what our dear son needed. We were so impressed by the quality of young men. They treated him so well. I must say that it was Craig Clark who really took our son under his wing. We will ever be grateful to him and to the others.
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BYU Rugby Fanhood Test #2: Super Gift Give-away

Happy Holidays to all my beloved BYU Rugby Fans!

Are you suffering from BYU Rugby withdrawal this offseason? Need that perfect gift for the BYU Rugby fan in your family?? Looking for an extra dose of excitement to tide you over until the 2010 college rugby season starts???

If you can answer "yes" to any of these questions, then it's time to take the BYU Rugby Fanhood Test once again!!!

This second time around, BYU Rugby Forever is looking for those true BYU Rugby fans, new and old, that have a quality story or experience to share as proof of their undying fanhood... and in return, BYU Rugby Forever is offering FREE highlight videos just in time for Gift-giving Season!

The first place winner will receive an HD copy of the recently-released BYU Rugby 2009 Highlight Video. Second place will receive not one but two DVD copies of the same highlight video. And last but not least, third place will receive one DVD copy of the highlight video.


Just take a moment and answer the following question to let your true blue, BYU Rugby fanhood shine through:

What is your favorite BYU Rugby moment, experience, or memory of all time and why?

Please limit your response to 300 words or less. Narratives may be submitted by email to byurugbyforever@gmail.com or by clicking the "Contact Me" button on the sidebar. Submissions will be accepted for the next three weeks until the 15th of December. Entrants must include their name and mailing address, and grant permission for their narrative to be featured on the BYU Rugby Forever blog.

All BYU Rugby Fans, Friends, and Alumni everywhere and of any age are encouraged to participate!

Good luck, my friends! BYU Rugby Forever anxiously awaits hearing from you...

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BYU Rugby vs. UVU Scrimmage: Round 2

Okay, I must apologize once again for the ultra short notice here, but I just barely heard about this less than a day ago and have been quite busy...

BYU and UVU will face off once again at 11:30 AM TODAY!!!

(That's actually in 20 minutes... Sorry, but I'm hoping at least some Twitter folk will hear about it and show up)

Round 2 of the slopfest will take place at UVU's field this time, at the north end of their campus. I'll keep you posted on how it goes, folks... sorry about the completely short notice.
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BYU Rugby Preseason Report: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Nearly two months ago, the BYU Men's Rugby team held it's annual, Fall semester tryouts. While I must admit I was somewhat anxious to see who would be returning, I was especially intrigued to see what new players would come out of the woodwork...

Amongst the 50+ players hitting the bags, I am pleased to say that a few familiar faces from last season are back in the mix, namely, Pila Vimahi, Haini Leaaetoa, Sean Howard, Mike Price, Mikey Su'a, Apenisa Malani, Joey Mount, and Andrew Harrison. Also, a number of notable players have returned to the Cougars after serving LDS missions: TJ Allred, David Root, and Ryan Roundy.

As far as the newbies go, well... we've got some potential, folks, very raw potential that is! Although a number of the fellas dawned Highland and United rugby garb, it was obvious that quite a few of the other hopefuls were recently-recycled from the beloved BYU Football team's cuts the day before. And although these boys looked pretty fit to be sure, their 'deer-in-the-headlights' performance in the recent scrimmage against UVU left some of us Super Fans wondering...

Now, before I spout off in a fit of circular logic, let me at least give this report some order... I'll break it down in three parts: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.

The Good: BYU Rugby is BYU Rugby is BYU Rugby.

Okay, that may sound lame, but let's face it... BYU has had some truly scattered performances in past preseasons. But somehow, someway, our BYU coaches and players always find a way to corral any errant emotions, individualistic play, or disorganized execution to produce a winning team by the time the regular season gets into full swing.

At the recent tryouts, I must say that I was impressed by the intensity with which the coaches kept the boys moving. One specific drill had them switching positions on the ground at Coach Wayne's call before finally hopping up to hit and wrap the bag. That may not sound too difficult, but when you consider that there were at least 10 stations to cycle through continuously, then you can only imagine how tiring it was. Good to see the bar has been raised! (Note to football recruits: Welcome to rugby where the tackling never stops!)

One positive here for the team thus far: it looks like we've got some pretty physically solid fellas in the ranks, especially in the forwards. Now... if they can get BYU Rugby in their brains and down to their fingers and toes, then we'll have a good crop of talent for next season!

The Bad: BYU is going to further limit the amount of players on the BYU Men's Rugby roster to some 40 players or so.

You would think that the university would be more willing to expand the program after its first National Title rather than handicap it... Yeah, it's an interesting thought. But perhaps we fans just need to maintain the optimistic viewpoint held by the BYU Rugby coaches that a smaller roster actually improves the team's potential for development. We'll see...

Another area that looks to be somewhat shaky this preseason is the BYU backline (I know, say it ain't so!). Just when it looked like Our Boys had really put together a solid crew to take the load off the forwards, it's back to the drawing board. Yes, there are some solid returning starters in Dylan Lubbe and Tupu Folau, but the rest are basically still in the woodwork.

I hate to say it, but if the BYU backline can't return to that high level of fluidity we saw last season, then all of us BYU Rugby fans might be witnessing a whole load of rolling mauls and PCs from the forward pack as in previous years...

Prove me wrong fellas, please... for your own sakes!

The Ugly: The total slop of a scrimmage many of us witnessed take place between BYU and UVU a couple of weeks ago was sad to the point of receiving the label, "DEMOTIVATING."

Considering the lack of publicity for the match, a relatively large crowd still turned out on a rainy night only to witness garbage in motion (sssssuuuuupppppeeeerrrr ssssllllloooowwwww mmmmmooooottttiiiioooonnnn) ... sorry, but that's not rugby, my friends. True rugby carries with it a pleasant, aesthetic quality; rubbish does not.

I thought and still believe that a scrimmage is meant to be a point of observation and learning for coaches, players, and especially new recruits. Too bad staring at a pile of dung doesn't improve your rugby skills or understanding whatsoever...

And to think I was tempted to pitch the blame on the newly converted football players... But no, I'm not going to do that, folks, as fun as it would be (and as much as they appeared to have zero clue about what to do on the pitch). Instead, I'm going to throw the whole blanket over all of us who know better: coaches, players, alumni, and otherwise rugby-enlightened individuals. If we don't help out, then who will???

So here it is, my friends, after a brutal dose of soapbox speak... I invite you to share your thoughts, offer some coaching and expertise, give of yourselves, or do something, anything, to continue in the growth and improvement of what we all hope every year will be BYU's greatest sports team, the BYU Rugby team!

For starters, or "for newbies" I should say, I offer my house as a venue to learn more about rugby on the big screen.

All of you football players that don't know what people keep telling you to do: come on over, watch some rugby, and ask questions. Take a moment in your off-time to get rugby in your heads! All of you high school transplants, secondary, and starters: Come on over and teach each other the game; learn and see how BYU should get it done every time!

Suffice it to say that the window of potential for improvement is wide open, and thus BYU Rugby Forever invites you and I to do our part... After all, we want BYU Rugby to continue to be BYU Rugby for a long, long time!!!
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BYU Rugby team recognized at BYU Football game

If you're a faithful BYU Rugby fan, then I suppose this is old news... but regardless, let it be known that at least a few of us BYU Rugby Super Fans were there for Our Boys' moment of fame!

The BYU Rugby team were recently recognized at the BYU Football team's home game against Utah State on October second. As they lined up on the field, a short video played on the jumbo-tron featuring a hodgepodge of clips from the BYU Rugby team's undefeated season and National Final win... pretty sweet, fellas! (BYU Rugby photo)

And so a sizable 'thank you' is in order for the BYU Athletic Department and the BYU Football team: Thank You for your courage! ... (that is, in acknowledging at a BYU Football game that BYU's greatest sport isn't football!) :D I'll take it, folks!

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BYU Rugby Scrumhalf Shaun Davies: Interview of the Week

If you had to choose just one player from the BYU Rugby team that best displayed the skills and dynamics necessary to meet all facets of the game of rugby, the clear choice would be BYU Rugby Scrumhalf Shaun Davies. While his height might cause the unknowing observer to question, anyone who has witnessed him play for even a few minutes knows of his amazing elusiveness and physicality on the field. (Photos by Paul Meyers)


At the position of scrumhalf, Shaun's obvious talent and high level of execution not only rendered him an individual threat but also set him apart as a dependable leader. Throughout the season, it was a common occurrence to witness Shaun score more than one individual try as well as set up numerous others. His aptitude and decisiveness at such a critical position enabled the BYU Rugby team to play at a faster pace than ever before.

With great pleasure, the BYU Rugby Forever "Interview of the Week" series continues with the most recognizable player on the field today, the face of the BYU Rugby team, All-American Scrumhalf Shaun Davies.


BYU Rugby Forever:
What influenced you to come to BYU all the way from home in South Africa? Has it been a tough transition to adapt to the LDS/BYU culture?

Shaun Davies:
Well, BYU is a really good school, and the rugby team speaks for itself; so that is the main reason, but I always just wanted to study away from home...just never knew it would be this far. It was never tough to adapt to the culture because all the guys on the team were so helpful to Dylan and me.

BYU Rugby Forever:
In the 2009 National Title match against Cal Berkeley, you notched a penalty kick with less than 5 minutes left in the game to give BYU the win by 3 points and to be subsequently named the match MVP. What does this moment and achievement mean to you? to your family?

Shaun Davies:
I was extremely honored to have received the award. To be honest though, I think there were a bunch of guys who could have got the award before me; I guess I was just lucky to have got the kick over.

My parents think that I am the next Daniel Carter or something now. I better not let them down.

BYU Rugby Forever:
Earlier this summer, you were injured while playing for the RegionalAll-Star team, the Pacific Coast Grizzlies, which injury prevented youfrom playing with the All-Americans. What was injured and how? What's the status of your recovery and ability to play next season?

Shaun Davies:
I tore the MCL and PCL; the MCL was torn completely though. It was just unlucky how it happened. I was running the ball back and thought I got round the first wave of defenders, but then some guy hit me from the side and there went my knee.

I am meant to be back and playing full contact by mid September, but I think I will just take it easy. I don’t see the point of coming back and then just hurting it again.

BYU Rugby Forever:
What were some of the most intense moments you experienced this past season?

Shaun Davies:
There are so many intense moments from this last season. It varies from Coach Smyth nearly killing me in a half time talk against Dartmouth to playing Berkley in the final.

One of my favorite moments would have to be against [Arkansas State]. I remember after the try we scored, Kyle Sumsion went crazy (most intense moment), and I just burst out laughing at him. And looking back at that now, I still laugh even though that was for me the toughest game of the season.

BYU Rugby Forever:
What are your goals for yourself and for the team during the rest of your BYU Rugby career? If possible, would you pursue the opportunity to play rugby on a higher level?

Shaun Davies:
For the BYU rugby team, we have now set the benchmark of a perfect season, and we know what it takes...so I would love to have three more of those, and I am willing to do whatever it takes.

It’s funny you ask that, because yesterday I was watching the Berkley game but concentrating on myself...and it made me realize that if I do want to play at a higher level, there is still a lot I have to improve. To answer your question, I want to go as far in rugby as I can go.

BYU Rugby Forever:
To all the BYU Rugby faithful around the world, do you have any particular message or thoughts you would share?

Shaun Davies:
Thank you all so much for the support. You don’t realize how much it helps and how much we enjoy it. I hope that we can make you guys just as happy this season as we did last.

BYU Rugby Forever:
Thanks, Shaun. Hope you heal up well in time for another great season! Congrats on the MVP and national honors!
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BYU Rugby on BYU TV International

Just recently, the folks at BYU Television International put together a brief story highlighting the BYU Rugby team's National Championship win using footage shot by our guys, Ben Thompson and Micah Brown, for the BYU Rugby 2009 highlight video. Ben informed me of their desire to do the piece, and we were fortunate to acquire this six and a half minute video clip of the final product!

Also featured is an interview with 2009 All-American and BYU Rugby Forever Anchor Award winner, Apenisa Malani. Although all the commentary in this clip is actually in Portuguese, Apenisa's responses weren't dubbed over... so you can pretty much guess the questions that he was asked. Congrats to Apenisa.

So there you have it, friends... BYU Rugby has made some international news after all!!! (ok, at least in those countries where Portuguese is understood)

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BYU Bookstore Ad for BYU Rugby 2009 DVD

If you get a chance to visit the BYU Bookstore in Provo in the near future, take a moment to check out the ads cycling through on the overhead TVs... you just might see this ad for the new BYU Rugby 2009 DVD, now available in the BYU Bookstore. Enjoy!

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The 2009 Anchor Awards

Perhaps more so than any other sport, rugby is all about playing for the team, not for yourself. Whereas in other sports it may seem almost belittling to merely be called a "supporting player," in rugby there are few greater compliments...

Player support is absolutely essential in rugby; without it, true team success is impossible. Being a solid, supporting player doesn't often bring great amounts of recognition, but it does bring great personal satisfaction and increased potential for team success.

Over the course of the BYU Rugby team's amazing run this past season, numerous players contributed to such collective success, the culmination of which yielded a National Title. Time and time again, we fans heard announced the names of standout players, such as Steve St. Pierre, Shaun Davies, Dylan Lubbe, Paul Lasike, Vito Qaqa, and freshman speedster Jordan Lowry...

Nevertheless, in an effort to recognize and spotlight those true supporting players that often go unnamed, BYU Rugby Forever introduces the first-ever "Anchor Awards."

Just as an anchor represents steadfastness and stability in the face of opposition, the BYU Rugby Forever Anchor Awards are given to those BYU players who are a model of consistency offensively, defensively, and with respect to their specific position.

While myriad players on the 2009 BYU Rugby squad showed tremendous grit and rose to the challenge throughout the season, two players stood out in my mind as being most worthy of a 2009 BYU Rugby Forever Anchor Award: Flanker Apenisa Malani and Lock Kyle Sumsion. (Photos courtesy of Paul Meyers)

Now before anyone out there jumps up and says, "Hey, but Apenisa was just named an All-American, and Kyle was named an Honorable Mention! How is that going unnoticed???", allow me to explain...

Let's just say that I've had the idea for the Anchor Awards rolling around in the back of my head since season's end... and just because the Collegiate All-American selectors and coaches also happened to observe the consistency of these two players doesn't mean that I can't follow through with my own, premeditated means of recognition. (So just humor me a little, and we can all still be friends...)

That being said, the first BYU Rugby Forever Anchor Award goes to junior Apenisa Malani in acknowledgment of his unquestionable consistency all across the board. Without fail, Apenisa's offensive efforts set up eventual trys and instigated momentum-building drives that kept the Cougars focused on the end goal.

And true to the nature of his flanker position, Apenisa set a high standard of defense with solid, immobilizing tackles that more often than not left the opposition on their backs! The epitome of collegiate rugby energy and dependability, Apenisa Malani receives my congratulations for being a solid example of a true supporting player to the very end.

Our other Anchor Award winner, freshman Kyle Sumsion, truly made a statement this year with his solid, even surprisingly potent, offensive and defensive play. Who says that freshmen are necessarily more timid, weak, or lacking in skill??? Kyle definitively shattered all such notions with powerful runs and fluid line-outs on offense as well as unbending defensive efforts at the breakdown. Like no other BYU freshman forward before him, 'fearless' was his name...

Honestly, I doubt many spectators ever knew that he hadn't been playing with the team for years prior to this season! My congratulations to Kyle Sumsion for breaking the mold of freshman uncertainty to play an integral, supporting role from the very start.

Congratulations and thanks to both Apenisa and Kyle on an amazing 2009 season!

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Time to bracket up... College Rugby style!

Hey BYU Rugby fans, did you think the craziness of picking brackets ended with college basketball's "March Madness"? Think again! Rugby America is hosting the first ever, Men’s Division 1 Collegiate Championship bracket challenge! Check out the Sweet 16 match-ups set to take place on April 17th, and then make your picks according to the rules as outlined.


BYU again faces Dartmouth in the first round of this year's playoffs. Last year's hard-fought match represented a true test for BYU... Yes, BYU walked away victorious, 48-22, but not without several mishaps along the way. Bottom line, BYU has a tough road on their way to the Big Dance, with potential match-ups against Arkansas State, Navy, Army, or #3-ranked St. Mary's, just to name a few...

So let's all hang on for the ride as BYU pushes for a 4th-consecutive Final Match appearance! Submit your picks, and support Our Boys as they again pursue the National Championship dream! B - Y - U, Cougars!
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