Game recap from Coach Rock

Good morning Rock Rugby Family. Here is a recap of the first game last night.

Last year we ended up in Division 2 for the first time since 2011. The team did well losing only 2 matches, both to the same team. This year it was decided to move back into the first division. We knew it would be a challenge as the teams in this division are bigger, stronger and more skilled at rugby. But the decision was made to provide the club a better opportunity in moving forward and growing.

The team we played last night has been a power house for a few years now. When they entered the league they too struggled with the more accomplished clubs but have obviously improved and grown. They have two high school sides and a number of youth sides. This is where we want to be and will get there.

For those parents that don’t know we had averaged around 80 players for a few years and then had two back to back large graduating classes, COVID hit and we have been rebuilding ever since.

The decision to build our own facilities was made to create a draw for more players as we now have our own home. The future looks bright for us!

Last night I witnessed an incredible group of young men, and I mean young, give it their best effort, start to finish. We have 26 players registered and a majority of them are new to rugby. The team that took the field last night had no seniors, all underclassmen. Over half the team on the field were playing in their first ever rugby game. To play a team like 4 Points, in the first match and with no scrimmage or any other game prior to this one was a feat. But the players took the challenge and handled themselves well.

The first half was a learning curve. But the forwards did a tremendous job against a very big pack from the other side. The defense was very good but a few really nice plays from 4 Points gave them a nice lead going into halftime.

The second half we firmed up, continued to play hard and stopped the opposition more often and came together nicely as a team.

The coaches were very proud of the effort and look forward to working hard on improving the team.

Players of the match were Lawson Weston in the forwards, whom did an outstanding job as the pack leader, and Joaquin Maldonado in the back line.

Congratulations to our boys for the first game of the season. Next week we have an early home game against a team from Houston. It will be followed by a meal for everyone and lots of fun. Let’s get some fans out to our game to watch the boys perform!

Thanks to the parents and coaches for all their help.