2012/2013 News & Headlines
Year In Review - Head Coach Mark Morris
Hello Alumni and Carolina Rugby Supporters,
I hope your spring was as enjoyable as the one we just finished here with the Carolina Rugby team. Especially, the final push towards Nationals. This would have not been possible without the generous monetary help of all the Olde Boys and Families that stepped up to help in our travel to the SEC Championship and The Sweet Sixteen. Again, thanks to all that donated and to everyone that cheers us on and backed the club with your support as well as dollars.
Spring 2013 proved to be a special season here at USC. Many victories, lots of awards and lots of recognition for several of our players. Just to give you some background, I remember my first year as Head Coach back in the Fall of 2011, undefeated friendly season against all the ACC teams and beating Clemson twice in the same month. It was great to be on top but then a year goes by and it is the Fall of 2012 after losses to NC State and ECU we were at a crossroad of playing social rugby again or start tightening the program to make a change to be more competitive. I knew we had the talent, although it was young, but I was tired of losing to teams we should easily beat. The Coaches and I gave the team a choice, play competitive rugby or just for fun. Luckily the young team wanted to be better and voted to put in the work needed to succeed at a higher level. So, starting last November 2012 we recommitted ourselves to becoming better as a team. We went on to win what was probably the last Palmetto State Championship and barely lost 15-18 to Division II finalist, Charleston during
our Clubs 45th Anniversary Weekend and COB Reunion.
The spring season was fun, hard and exciting. We continued to push the team in their conditioning and then ran them some more. We had to be ready for Florida, our first game in only a few weeks. The club was ready and we played an excellent game against the defending 2012 SEC Champs. After the game the other coaches and I knew we had a great shot of going all the way.
We took each of the next 5 games one at a time and prepared for each as a stepping stone to our goals. As the victories kept coming we continued to work harder. After the LSU game I was so excited by the boys play I could hardly talk, which is a first for me. I’ve never seen a USC team play any harder than that game. We continued to roll on playing Kentucky away. I started several reserve players in this game to see what we had in depth and was really excited about everyone stepping up to perform and prepare for the end of season playoffs.
Now the sites are set on last game of the season with Tennessee. We both are undefeated and playing great. The game was tough, we spotted Tennessee 2 tries in first 5 minutes of game but came back to score 28 unanswered points to make it 28-10 at 63 minutes mark in the game. Tennessee never gave up and answered with 4 tries to come back for a 34-28 win. Even though we lost I knew we could beat them.
The SEC Championship was next. With our budget spent on the regular season and no funds left in the account we went to COB, family and supporters to help fund the trip. Thankfully our Olde Boys and the COB Foundation stepped up and raised the funds necessary for the trip. Again, thank you for all your donations, the team is so proud of your support and commitment to the Club.
In the first game we faced LSU again. Twice in same season, could we do it? The team played a great game and we came out on top again to face Tennessee in Final. Unlike our first meeting we came out scoring and held Tennessee for most of the game. We even had a couple of tries called back by the referee. Although we dominated most of the game, several sin bins and injuries started to take its toll and their pack and the referee controlled the last 20 minutes of the game. We let another one slip away.
Now it is time to focus on the Nationals Sweet Sixteen. On the road again without time to raise funds for the trip our Carolina Olde Boys through the Carolina Foundation and parents of players came through again and stepped-up to fund the trip with their donations of funds for hotels, gas, vans and food. The team and coaches cannot express enough gratitude to everyone that is behind us as we push the barriers of what Carolina Rugby can become.
USC, Clemson, our first opponent, Tennessee and eventual D1-AA National Champion University of Central Florida all arrived with a National Championship on their minds. We all felt we had a chance to move on. The Clemson game was very upsetting for me. Although we controlled the ball the majority of the game and kept it in their end we could not find the try line. On two occasions we were on their 5 or 10 meter line going in and knock on or drop the ball only to have them return it for a quick try. No excuses for the conditions, it was pouring and field was wet as I ever have been allowed to play on. We just couldn’t find our footing or hold on to the ball. That was a hard loss to take considering our winning streak back to 2007 against them. After the game, all I could tell the boys was to remember how the loss felt because I do not want to experience it again. I also told them I needed to see what they were made of with the consolation game against Tennessee the next day. I knew we could beat them if they played well but challenged them to not let them beat us again. This would be the team’s redemption for a great season. I could not be any happier with a solid win versus Tennessee on Sunday to close out the season and the best for me was to play every reserve that worked hard through all the finals, some that did not play any minutes in the 3 other play-off games. Reflecting on the Sweet Sixteen, USC has what it takes to be a contender at the national level. We were right there with the National Champions. Any Day could have gone either way with the weather, but we belong.
We were blessed with some outstanding awards for our Captain, Tim Holkenborg. Tim was voted Player of the Week 3 times during weeks 1,3,8 of the season and freshman winger, Tim Hamill, also received Player of the Week honors in week 5 and junior winger Matt Berenato , one of our next season captains, finished the SEC regular season out as Player of the Week in final week 9. Outstanding work by the guys to capture 5 out of the 9 weeks as SEC East Players of the Week. As for the All SEC Conference Team we placed 5 out of the 15 on the 1st Team. Prop- David Mysona, flanker-Dana Corcoran, Fly- Tim Holkenborg, Center-Mitch Fontalvo, Wing-Matt Berenato . We also had one freshman, Wing- Tim Hamill make the 2nd Team All SEC.
As the season closes two final awards were handed out by the SCRC. The one I am most happy about was our captain, Tim Holkenborg receiving SEC Player of the Year Honors. No player deserved it more than Tim with his play and leadership of the team season. The other award was my proudest moment of the season for the team, because it really is the ultimate team award. I was recognized with the SEC Coach of the Year Honors. I feel I was honored only because of the outstanding coaches and players I had this season and their dedication and hard work that rewarded me with an award that can only be shared by everyone associated with the Club.
In closing, all I can say is Thank you to the Team, Coaches, Supporters and especially the COB Board and Foundation for their generous donations to make all the post-season travel and year end Awards Banquet possible. As the Head Coach I am proud of everyone associated with Carolina Rugby and look forward to next season.
Go Cocks!
Mark Morris
Head Coach
South Carolina Men’s Rugby
I hope your spring was as enjoyable as the one we just finished here with the Carolina Rugby team. Especially, the final push towards Nationals. This would have not been possible without the generous monetary help of all the Olde Boys and Families that stepped up to help in our travel to the SEC Championship and The Sweet Sixteen. Again, thanks to all that donated and to everyone that cheers us on and backed the club with your support as well as dollars.
Spring 2013 proved to be a special season here at USC. Many victories, lots of awards and lots of recognition for several of our players. Just to give you some background, I remember my first year as Head Coach back in the Fall of 2011, undefeated friendly season against all the ACC teams and beating Clemson twice in the same month. It was great to be on top but then a year goes by and it is the Fall of 2012 after losses to NC State and ECU we were at a crossroad of playing social rugby again or start tightening the program to make a change to be more competitive. I knew we had the talent, although it was young, but I was tired of losing to teams we should easily beat. The Coaches and I gave the team a choice, play competitive rugby or just for fun. Luckily the young team wanted to be better and voted to put in the work needed to succeed at a higher level. So, starting last November 2012 we recommitted ourselves to becoming better as a team. We went on to win what was probably the last Palmetto State Championship and barely lost 15-18 to Division II finalist, Charleston during
our Clubs 45th Anniversary Weekend and COB Reunion.
The spring season was fun, hard and exciting. We continued to push the team in their conditioning and then ran them some more. We had to be ready for Florida, our first game in only a few weeks. The club was ready and we played an excellent game against the defending 2012 SEC Champs. After the game the other coaches and I knew we had a great shot of going all the way.
We took each of the next 5 games one at a time and prepared for each as a stepping stone to our goals. As the victories kept coming we continued to work harder. After the LSU game I was so excited by the boys play I could hardly talk, which is a first for me. I’ve never seen a USC team play any harder than that game. We continued to roll on playing Kentucky away. I started several reserve players in this game to see what we had in depth and was really excited about everyone stepping up to perform and prepare for the end of season playoffs.
Now the sites are set on last game of the season with Tennessee. We both are undefeated and playing great. The game was tough, we spotted Tennessee 2 tries in first 5 minutes of game but came back to score 28 unanswered points to make it 28-10 at 63 minutes mark in the game. Tennessee never gave up and answered with 4 tries to come back for a 34-28 win. Even though we lost I knew we could beat them.
The SEC Championship was next. With our budget spent on the regular season and no funds left in the account we went to COB, family and supporters to help fund the trip. Thankfully our Olde Boys and the COB Foundation stepped up and raised the funds necessary for the trip. Again, thank you for all your donations, the team is so proud of your support and commitment to the Club.
In the first game we faced LSU again. Twice in same season, could we do it? The team played a great game and we came out on top again to face Tennessee in Final. Unlike our first meeting we came out scoring and held Tennessee for most of the game. We even had a couple of tries called back by the referee. Although we dominated most of the game, several sin bins and injuries started to take its toll and their pack and the referee controlled the last 20 minutes of the game. We let another one slip away.
Now it is time to focus on the Nationals Sweet Sixteen. On the road again without time to raise funds for the trip our Carolina Olde Boys through the Carolina Foundation and parents of players came through again and stepped-up to fund the trip with their donations of funds for hotels, gas, vans and food. The team and coaches cannot express enough gratitude to everyone that is behind us as we push the barriers of what Carolina Rugby can become.
USC, Clemson, our first opponent, Tennessee and eventual D1-AA National Champion University of Central Florida all arrived with a National Championship on their minds. We all felt we had a chance to move on. The Clemson game was very upsetting for me. Although we controlled the ball the majority of the game and kept it in their end we could not find the try line. On two occasions we were on their 5 or 10 meter line going in and knock on or drop the ball only to have them return it for a quick try. No excuses for the conditions, it was pouring and field was wet as I ever have been allowed to play on. We just couldn’t find our footing or hold on to the ball. That was a hard loss to take considering our winning streak back to 2007 against them. After the game, all I could tell the boys was to remember how the loss felt because I do not want to experience it again. I also told them I needed to see what they were made of with the consolation game against Tennessee the next day. I knew we could beat them if they played well but challenged them to not let them beat us again. This would be the team’s redemption for a great season. I could not be any happier with a solid win versus Tennessee on Sunday to close out the season and the best for me was to play every reserve that worked hard through all the finals, some that did not play any minutes in the 3 other play-off games. Reflecting on the Sweet Sixteen, USC has what it takes to be a contender at the national level. We were right there with the National Champions. Any Day could have gone either way with the weather, but we belong.
We were blessed with some outstanding awards for our Captain, Tim Holkenborg. Tim was voted Player of the Week 3 times during weeks 1,3,8 of the season and freshman winger, Tim Hamill, also received Player of the Week honors in week 5 and junior winger Matt Berenato , one of our next season captains, finished the SEC regular season out as Player of the Week in final week 9. Outstanding work by the guys to capture 5 out of the 9 weeks as SEC East Players of the Week. As for the All SEC Conference Team we placed 5 out of the 15 on the 1st Team. Prop- David Mysona, flanker-Dana Corcoran, Fly- Tim Holkenborg, Center-Mitch Fontalvo, Wing-Matt Berenato . We also had one freshman, Wing- Tim Hamill make the 2nd Team All SEC.
As the season closes two final awards were handed out by the SCRC. The one I am most happy about was our captain, Tim Holkenborg receiving SEC Player of the Year Honors. No player deserved it more than Tim with his play and leadership of the team season. The other award was my proudest moment of the season for the team, because it really is the ultimate team award. I was recognized with the SEC Coach of the Year Honors. I feel I was honored only because of the outstanding coaches and players I had this season and their dedication and hard work that rewarded me with an award that can only be shared by everyone associated with the Club.
In closing, all I can say is Thank you to the Team, Coaches, Supporters and especially the COB Board and Foundation for their generous donations to make all the post-season travel and year end Awards Banquet possible. As the Head Coach I am proud of everyone associated with Carolina Rugby and look forward to next season.
Go Cocks!
Mark Morris
Head Coach
South Carolina Men’s Rugby
Southeastern Rugby All Conference Teams
Player of the Year: Tim Holkenborg; Senior Flyhalf - University of South Carolina
Tim had a stellar season guiding the South Carolina turnaround this season. His accolades this year include being named eastern division player of the week 3 out of the 9 weeks of competition and being named to the All SCRC Tournament team. Last fall Tim was also named to the All SCRC 7s squad. Tim did an outstanding job of directing the attack of a efficient South Carolina back line as well as providing many points off the tee.
Coach of the Year: Mark Morris - University of South Carolina
This year the conference had a couple outstanding coaching performances, and Mark did an excellent job turning around the South Carolina program into a program that finished nationally in the top 16. South Carolina went 5-1 in league and finished 2nd in the eastern division. They advanced to the conference championship by beating LSU and then fell to Tennessee the following game. Mark is a humble coach who will give all the credit to his players for their hard work and determination, but he provided a stable platform of leadership that helped create a winning season and culture at South Carolina.
Tim had a stellar season guiding the South Carolina turnaround this season. His accolades this year include being named eastern division player of the week 3 out of the 9 weeks of competition and being named to the All SCRC Tournament team. Last fall Tim was also named to the All SCRC 7s squad. Tim did an outstanding job of directing the attack of a efficient South Carolina back line as well as providing many points off the tee.
Coach of the Year: Mark Morris - University of South Carolina
This year the conference had a couple outstanding coaching performances, and Mark did an excellent job turning around the South Carolina program into a program that finished nationally in the top 16. South Carolina went 5-1 in league and finished 2nd in the eastern division. They advanced to the conference championship by beating LSU and then fell to Tennessee the following game. Mark is a humble coach who will give all the credit to his players for their hard work and determination, but he provided a stable platform of leadership that helped create a winning season and culture at South Carolina.
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1st Team
Prop Mitch Esteppe UM David Mysona USC Hooker Paul Rogers LSU Lock John Michael Wood UM Joe Carpenter UT Backrow Dana Corcoran USC Chance Taylor UM Austin West UGA Scrumhalf Craig Joseph UM Flyhalf Tim Holkenborg USC Centers Matt Johnson UT Mitch Fontalvo USC Wing Matt Berenato USC Ben Winiarczyk AUB Fullback Allen Alongi LSU |
2nd Team
Prop Christian Brower LSU Casey Davidson UGA Hooker Sims Hazel UM Lock Alex Creede LSU Austin Moore, Vandy Backrow Ryan Roper UT Josh Oriez ALA Derrick Mitchell MSU Scrumhalf Gary Davidson UK Flyhalf Lucas Baistrocchi UF Centers Sebastian Kamyab AUB Malcolm Gandar UM Wing Lee Bogitsch UT Tim Hamill USC Fullback Pierre Haddad UM |
Carolina Finishes Runner up, Receives At-Large Bid to Nationals
Atlanta, GA - The Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference’s second annual XVs Championship Weekend took place on April 13th & 14th at the Atlanta Silverbacks Soccer Complex, hosted by the DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Atlanta Renegades, between the top four teams from the conference. With an opportunity to advance to the national tournament, each team came prepared to lay it all on the line, with South Carolina being no different.
The first match of the day was between the top seed from the West, Louisiana State University, and the runner up from the East in South Carolina. The contest saw many lead changes throughout the eighty minutes and the attacking play was a treat for all in attendance. In the end, LSU fell short on their conference title hopes to an eager, young Carolina side. Despite their positive play and stellar defense, the Gamecocks were just too much in their ability to counter attack and set the defensive line speed. The Gamecocks found space out wide multiple times keeping the LSU backline, and especially the back three, busy in defense throughout the match. At the final whistle, the score stood 31-23, advancing the Gamecocks into their first SCRC Championship final.
In the second match of the afternoon, the Eastern conference winners from Tennessee faced the Rebels of Ole Miss. The scoring started with the Volunteers dotting down the first try, yet the Rebels quickly responded with a penalty of their own. After a few lead changes, the Rebels were leading at half 17-14. Following the break the Rebels came out attacking the same as they had in the opening stanza. Tennessee, halfway through the second half, pulled away to an eleven point lead. Ole Miss scored two tries in quick succession giving them the edge by one point with ten minutes to play. The last try of the day was scored by Tennessee giving them the final and deciding points of the match. Ole Miss showed that they would be contenders for years to come, though fell short on the day 36-32.
Day two of the competition saw the winners from day one, the University of South Carolina and the University of Tennessee, face off for the crown inside the Atlanta Renegades Soccer Stadium. After a solid victory over LSU, South Carolina struggled in the second half against Tennessee, finishing the match with a final score of 46-34. Controlling much of the game throughout the first half, they capitalized through aggressive attacks on the Tennessee backline and forcing turnovers. Going into the second half, Carolina held a two-try lead, but felt the pressure of the adjusting Tennessee forwards as they focused on using their size to keep the ball in their possession. At the 50 minute mark, the Volunteers scored multiple tries, gaining a substantial lead.
The first match of the day was between the top seed from the West, Louisiana State University, and the runner up from the East in South Carolina. The contest saw many lead changes throughout the eighty minutes and the attacking play was a treat for all in attendance. In the end, LSU fell short on their conference title hopes to an eager, young Carolina side. Despite their positive play and stellar defense, the Gamecocks were just too much in their ability to counter attack and set the defensive line speed. The Gamecocks found space out wide multiple times keeping the LSU backline, and especially the back three, busy in defense throughout the match. At the final whistle, the score stood 31-23, advancing the Gamecocks into their first SCRC Championship final.
In the second match of the afternoon, the Eastern conference winners from Tennessee faced the Rebels of Ole Miss. The scoring started with the Volunteers dotting down the first try, yet the Rebels quickly responded with a penalty of their own. After a few lead changes, the Rebels were leading at half 17-14. Following the break the Rebels came out attacking the same as they had in the opening stanza. Tennessee, halfway through the second half, pulled away to an eleven point lead. Ole Miss scored two tries in quick succession giving them the edge by one point with ten minutes to play. The last try of the day was scored by Tennessee giving them the final and deciding points of the match. Ole Miss showed that they would be contenders for years to come, though fell short on the day 36-32.
Day two of the competition saw the winners from day one, the University of South Carolina and the University of Tennessee, face off for the crown inside the Atlanta Renegades Soccer Stadium. After a solid victory over LSU, South Carolina struggled in the second half against Tennessee, finishing the match with a final score of 46-34. Controlling much of the game throughout the first half, they capitalized through aggressive attacks on the Tennessee backline and forcing turnovers. Going into the second half, Carolina held a two-try lead, but felt the pressure of the adjusting Tennessee forwards as they focused on using their size to keep the ball in their possession. At the 50 minute mark, the Volunteers scored multiple tries, gaining a substantial lead.
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After a series of penalties and injuries, the Gamecocks continued to fall, but made a last ditch effort scoring a final try and ending the match 46-34.
Despite the loss to Tennessee, South Carolina was selected as the At-Large recipient to the USA Rugby Sweet Sixteen Regional Playoffs set to take place in Knoxville, TN the weekend of April 27th - 28th. The Gamecocks will face the winners of the Atlantic Coach Rugby League, the Universoty of Clemson, for their first match, and pending a win, Carolina will face the winner of the University of Central Florida / University of Tennessee match. Carolina Rugby is proud of its accomplishments this season and is eager to see enthusiastic crowds in Knoxville to help cheer them on to victory! |
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Carolina Ready For Southeastern Rugby Championship
Atlanta, GA - The Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference is proud to announce that Atlanta, Georgia will serve as the official site for the second annual SCRC Championship Weekend scheduled for April 13th & 14th. The DeKalb Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Atlanta renegades will be serving as the hosts, with matches to take place at the Atlanta Silverbacks Soccer Complex.
The following match times have been established:
Saturday, April 13 – Renegades Rugby Field
10:00 AM West #1 v East #2 (LSU vs USC)
12:00 PM East #1 v West #2 (UT vs Miss)
Sunday, April 14 – Silverbacks Stadium
10:00 AM Championship Match
“We welcome the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference to Atlanta’s DeKalb County,” states Dan Bell, Sports Marketing Manager, DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau. “While you are here I invite you to enjoy all of our wonderful attractions, museums, dining options and incredible shopping.”
“We are proud of the accomplishments of our member teams and we thank our hosts, the DeKalb Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Atlanta Renegades, and the Atlanta Silverbacks Soccer Complex for their gracious hospitality,” comments SCRC Commissioner James Farrar. “We look forward to another successful championship event and we hope to see all of our SCRC supporters from the Atlanta and surrounding communities come out and cheer the teams to victory.”
In the inaugural season, Florida defeated Tennessee 22-14 in the championship match, held in Montgomery, Alabama, to win the SCRC title. Florida (#2 East) had beaten LSU (#1 West) 35-17 in first semifinal, while Tennessee (#1 East) had defeated Alabama (#2 West) 31-22 in the second semifinal.
The winner of Sunday’s Championship match will receive an automatic birth in the 2013 USA Rugby Sweet 16 Regional Playoffs on April 27th & 28thin Knoxville, Tennessee to face the winner of the South Independent Conference. From there, the winner will progress to the USA Rugby Finals on May 11th& 12th in Bowling Green, Ohio.
Last year, Tennessee reached the USA Rugby National Semifinals for the first time in program history after receiving an At-Large bid to the South Regional and defeating both Maryland (47-13) and Florida State (45-27). After securing their place in this year’s SCRC championship event, the Volunteers look to improve on their success and bring home a National title.
“Last year demonstrated what we all suspected in that some of the toughest competition in the country is right here in our own conference. Making the final of the SCRC Championship indicates that the team is ready and worthy of national tournament consideration. We hope to be one of those teams.” comments Tennessee Head Coach Marty Bradley.
For more information, please visit the SCRC online at www.SoutheasternRugby.org
The following match times have been established:
Saturday, April 13 – Renegades Rugby Field
10:00 AM West #1 v East #2 (LSU vs USC)
12:00 PM East #1 v West #2 (UT vs Miss)
Sunday, April 14 – Silverbacks Stadium
10:00 AM Championship Match
“We welcome the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference to Atlanta’s DeKalb County,” states Dan Bell, Sports Marketing Manager, DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau. “While you are here I invite you to enjoy all of our wonderful attractions, museums, dining options and incredible shopping.”
“We are proud of the accomplishments of our member teams and we thank our hosts, the DeKalb Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Atlanta Renegades, and the Atlanta Silverbacks Soccer Complex for their gracious hospitality,” comments SCRC Commissioner James Farrar. “We look forward to another successful championship event and we hope to see all of our SCRC supporters from the Atlanta and surrounding communities come out and cheer the teams to victory.”
In the inaugural season, Florida defeated Tennessee 22-14 in the championship match, held in Montgomery, Alabama, to win the SCRC title. Florida (#2 East) had beaten LSU (#1 West) 35-17 in first semifinal, while Tennessee (#1 East) had defeated Alabama (#2 West) 31-22 in the second semifinal.
The winner of Sunday’s Championship match will receive an automatic birth in the 2013 USA Rugby Sweet 16 Regional Playoffs on April 27th & 28thin Knoxville, Tennessee to face the winner of the South Independent Conference. From there, the winner will progress to the USA Rugby Finals on May 11th& 12th in Bowling Green, Ohio.
Last year, Tennessee reached the USA Rugby National Semifinals for the first time in program history after receiving an At-Large bid to the South Regional and defeating both Maryland (47-13) and Florida State (45-27). After securing their place in this year’s SCRC championship event, the Volunteers look to improve on their success and bring home a National title.
“Last year demonstrated what we all suspected in that some of the toughest competition in the country is right here in our own conference. Making the final of the SCRC Championship indicates that the team is ready and worthy of national tournament consideration. We hope to be one of those teams.” comments Tennessee Head Coach Marty Bradley.
For more information, please visit the SCRC online at www.SoutheasternRugby.org
Carolina’s Streak Ends, Falls to Tennessee
Knoxville, TN- Carolina traveled to play the University of Tennessee in a match that ended in an unsettling 38-24 loss for the Gamecocks. Although the score was in Tennessee’s favor, Carolina performed exceptionally well for the majority of the match. Trying to recover after two Tennessee tries within the first 6 minutes, Carolina held onto the ball for the next 57 minutes without giving up any additional points. By the 63rd minute, Carolina had scored and successfully converted 4 tries.
Readdressing their strategy, Tennessee brought the ball control to the forwards to capitalize on their size. On a series of mauls and strong forward play, the Volunteers scored 4 tries bringing the score 34-28 by the 76th minute.
Behind in the score, Carolina made a final effort to break the try line. Within the 22-meter line, Carolina made a series of attempts but failed after wasted time in penalties against Tennessee and wasted ball play.
Despite the loss, Carolina performed incredibly well and controlled the majority of the match. They put up the most points against Tennessee than any other team and never let up on effort and intensity. They look forward to hopefully playing Tennessee once again in the SCRC Championship this coming weekend. Knowing what to focus on for this next match, much of this week’s practice will be in perspective of the upcoming matches.
The Premier side Backs Player of the Match goes to Matt Berenato
The Premier side Forwards Player of the Match goes to Josh Walsh
The Reserve Side match against Tennessee ended with a 19-15 loss, though Carolina performed with a similar intensity and strong effort. With only 17 reserve side players, the Gamecocks battled through a fresh team of 30 Tennessee players in a game of rolling substitutions. Despite the disadvantage, a handful of rookies made an exceptional appearance on the field. Sean Miller, Justin Shutt, and Isaac Myers all look to be clutch players for the Fall season due to their improved play and understanding of the game.
The 15 points scored by Carolina came from Lane Mitchum, Matt Hoklenborg, and Colin Mckeon. Colin Mckeon has recently made his return to rugby after a short hiatus due to injuries. He has been a talented and loyal player in the past, and Carolina looks forward to his consistently impressive play.
Reserve side Most Valuable Back Colin Mckeon
Reserve side Most Valuable Forward Jared Magill
Readdressing their strategy, Tennessee brought the ball control to the forwards to capitalize on their size. On a series of mauls and strong forward play, the Volunteers scored 4 tries bringing the score 34-28 by the 76th minute.
Behind in the score, Carolina made a final effort to break the try line. Within the 22-meter line, Carolina made a series of attempts but failed after wasted time in penalties against Tennessee and wasted ball play.
Despite the loss, Carolina performed incredibly well and controlled the majority of the match. They put up the most points against Tennessee than any other team and never let up on effort and intensity. They look forward to hopefully playing Tennessee once again in the SCRC Championship this coming weekend. Knowing what to focus on for this next match, much of this week’s practice will be in perspective of the upcoming matches.
The Premier side Backs Player of the Match goes to Matt Berenato
The Premier side Forwards Player of the Match goes to Josh Walsh
The Reserve Side match against Tennessee ended with a 19-15 loss, though Carolina performed with a similar intensity and strong effort. With only 17 reserve side players, the Gamecocks battled through a fresh team of 30 Tennessee players in a game of rolling substitutions. Despite the disadvantage, a handful of rookies made an exceptional appearance on the field. Sean Miller, Justin Shutt, and Isaac Myers all look to be clutch players for the Fall season due to their improved play and understanding of the game.
The 15 points scored by Carolina came from Lane Mitchum, Matt Hoklenborg, and Colin Mckeon. Colin Mckeon has recently made his return to rugby after a short hiatus due to injuries. He has been a talented and loyal player in the past, and Carolina looks forward to his consistently impressive play.
Reserve side Most Valuable Back Colin Mckeon
Reserve side Most Valuable Forward Jared Magill
Time18:00
18:00 32:00 32:00 39:00 39:00 60:00 60:00 |
NameMatt Berenato
Tim Holkenborg Mitch Fontalvo Tim Holkenborg Matt Berenato Tim Holkenborg Tim Hamill Tim Holkenborg |
ActionTry
Con Try Con Try Con Try Con |
Gamecock, Volunteer Coaches Discuss Upcoming Match
American Rugby - Having a season go down to the wire is about all that can be expected in any competition in any sport. While fans follow their respective conference and leagues regardless, having a playoff race or pennant hunt makes things so much sweeter. In the Southeastern portion of the country, the SCRC has an important match taking place this weekend to determine seeding for the conference playoffs.
While the actual conference championship in the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference doesn't take place until next weekend, the South Carolina/Tennessee game this weekend could be a SCRC Championship preview. Both teams come into the game with identical undefeated records. Tennessee brings the top ranked offense and defense in the SCRC into the battle while South Carolina is hot on their heels with the 3rd ranked offense and defense in the conference.
"As with any game the keys to success with evenly matched teams is controlling the gainline," said Tennessee Head Coach Marty Bradley. "If we can force them to make decisions on their own side of the gainline then we have a chance. USC is a very aggressive, attacking team so we better make our tackles."
Tennessee has the home field advantage, but Vol's Head Coach is quick to point out that it may not be a huge factor in the game.
"I think home field may help some but we all have to travel a significant distance in our league so I think most teams are accustom to traveling and handle it well," added Bradley. The winner takes home the SCRC East Division title and the East #1 seed in the playoffs and likely a semifinal against Ole Miss. The loser faces the much more difficult task of taking on LSU in the SCRC semifinal. A position neither team wants to be in, although the Gamecocks have already defeated LSU earlier this season.
"Tennessee always has a strong team and has been the team to beat in the southeast," said South Carolina Head Coach Mark Morris. "I know Marty and his men are ready for a great game of college rugby. The build up to this point in the season has been great. Can't think of a better situation for both of us to be in."
"I think the key factors for the game this Saturday will be nothing new. Just good fundamental rugby, ball retention, so we can get the ball to our backs," added Morris. "Stopping the Vols pack around the ruck, doing a great job tackling and applying constant pressure on defense. If we can be first to the breakdown and move the ball quickly and continue to move the ball forward I believe we will do well."
While the actual conference championship in the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference doesn't take place until next weekend, the South Carolina/Tennessee game this weekend could be a SCRC Championship preview. Both teams come into the game with identical undefeated records. Tennessee brings the top ranked offense and defense in the SCRC into the battle while South Carolina is hot on their heels with the 3rd ranked offense and defense in the conference.
"As with any game the keys to success with evenly matched teams is controlling the gainline," said Tennessee Head Coach Marty Bradley. "If we can force them to make decisions on their own side of the gainline then we have a chance. USC is a very aggressive, attacking team so we better make our tackles."
Tennessee has the home field advantage, but Vol's Head Coach is quick to point out that it may not be a huge factor in the game.
"I think home field may help some but we all have to travel a significant distance in our league so I think most teams are accustom to traveling and handle it well," added Bradley. The winner takes home the SCRC East Division title and the East #1 seed in the playoffs and likely a semifinal against Ole Miss. The loser faces the much more difficult task of taking on LSU in the SCRC semifinal. A position neither team wants to be in, although the Gamecocks have already defeated LSU earlier this season.
"Tennessee always has a strong team and has been the team to beat in the southeast," said South Carolina Head Coach Mark Morris. "I know Marty and his men are ready for a great game of college rugby. The build up to this point in the season has been great. Can't think of a better situation for both of us to be in."
"I think the key factors for the game this Saturday will be nothing new. Just good fundamental rugby, ball retention, so we can get the ball to our backs," added Morris. "Stopping the Vols pack around the ruck, doing a great job tackling and applying constant pressure on defense. If we can be first to the breakdown and move the ball quickly and continue to move the ball forward I believe we will do well."
Gamecocks Prepare for Tennessee, Match to Determine Division Title
Columbia, SC - The Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference is idle this weekend. With only one weekend left to the in the regular season, the teams representing each division in the playoffs have already been locked in. However, the East Division title is yet to be decided as South Carolina and Tennessee square off on April 6th.
South Carolina (5-0) and Tennessee (5-0) have both dominated their competition this season, with Tennessee outscoring their opponents 305-52 (+253) and South Carolina not far behind at 221-77 (+144). Both teams have also shown impressive defenses, with the Volunteers taking the edge at allowing only 10.4pts per game over the Gamecock’s 15.4pts.
South Carolina Head Coach Mark Morris is confident of his team’s chances and looks to use his young, new talent and renewed focus on the fundamentals to carry the Gamecocks to victory.
"Practice has remained the same. We have a pretty structured routine and just try to worry about what we have to do to be successful. We are aware of Tennessee’s offensive threats, but overall each of the players has confidence in each other to handle their opposite."
With a win over Tennessee, the Gamecocks will finish undefeated on the season, earn their first Eastern Division Title, and will face the #2 seed in the West (most likely Ole Miss) in the first round of the SCRC Championship weekend on April 13th and 14th at the Atlanta Silverbacks Soccer Stadium. The win will also cap off a tremendous turnaround from last season’s disappointing 2-4 finish, to include a 71-7 loss to Tennessee at home.
"We got off to a great start last year before falling off mid-season. Thankfully, we were able to address our shortcomings and rally back for a strong finish, though with a conference like ours, you rarely get a second chance once you fall behind. I am extremely proud of the performances that our players have given this year and look forward to the upcoming match up against Tennessee to get our shot at the Eastern Title.
Carolina Rugby looks forward to traveling to Knoxville to take on the Tennessee Volunteers on Saturday, April 6th at the Tennessee Rugby Complex. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00pm.
South Carolina (5-0) and Tennessee (5-0) have both dominated their competition this season, with Tennessee outscoring their opponents 305-52 (+253) and South Carolina not far behind at 221-77 (+144). Both teams have also shown impressive defenses, with the Volunteers taking the edge at allowing only 10.4pts per game over the Gamecock’s 15.4pts.
South Carolina Head Coach Mark Morris is confident of his team’s chances and looks to use his young, new talent and renewed focus on the fundamentals to carry the Gamecocks to victory.
"Practice has remained the same. We have a pretty structured routine and just try to worry about what we have to do to be successful. We are aware of Tennessee’s offensive threats, but overall each of the players has confidence in each other to handle their opposite."
With a win over Tennessee, the Gamecocks will finish undefeated on the season, earn their first Eastern Division Title, and will face the #2 seed in the West (most likely Ole Miss) in the first round of the SCRC Championship weekend on April 13th and 14th at the Atlanta Silverbacks Soccer Stadium. The win will also cap off a tremendous turnaround from last season’s disappointing 2-4 finish, to include a 71-7 loss to Tennessee at home.
"We got off to a great start last year before falling off mid-season. Thankfully, we were able to address our shortcomings and rally back for a strong finish, though with a conference like ours, you rarely get a second chance once you fall behind. I am extremely proud of the performances that our players have given this year and look forward to the upcoming match up against Tennessee to get our shot at the Eastern Title.
Carolina Rugby looks forward to traveling to Knoxville to take on the Tennessee Volunteers on Saturday, April 6th at the Tennessee Rugby Complex. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00pm.
Tim Holkenborg Receives Third SCRC Player of the Week Honors
American Rugby - The SCRC East Division Player of the Week is Tim Holkenborg a senior flyhalf from the University of South Carolina. Holkenborg has been a huge cog in the Gamecock offensive attack this season. This past weekend wasn't any different as Holkenborg scored 27 points on three tries and six conversions as South Carolina
routed Kentucky 57-7.
"He continues to push his team to excel and rallied the defense throughout the game," added South Carolina Head Coach Mark Morris.
routed Kentucky 57-7.
"He continues to push his team to excel and rallied the defense throughout the game," added South Carolina Head Coach Mark Morris.
Gamecocks Tame the Wildcats, Improve to 6-0 on the Season
Lexington, KY - This past weekend, South Carolina hit the road to take on the University of Kentucky Wildcats in their first meeting since the Gamecock's 104-3 vicory last spring. After a solid week of practice following Spring Break, the Gamecocks quickly re-assimilated themselves with the mentality and performance of the previous weeks. The main focus was conditioning and defense, to which the Gamecocks excelled. On defense, Carolina successfully protected the Try-line throughout the match. The Forwards played with remarkable ball control in and around the rucks.
In the forward position, freshman JoJo Johnson was awarded Man of the Match honors as he made his first appearance at Loose Head Prop. Previously playing in the flanker position, JoJo made the switch comfortably and was recognized for his impressive runs, drives, and exceptional work overall.
Additionally, senior captain Tim Holkenborg at Fly Half and freshman Mike Mahon at 8-Man played an outstanding game. Holkenborg scored three tries, six conversions, and two assists, totaling 27 points. Mahon scored a total of two tries in addition to a series of remarkable runs in the 57-7 vistory.
Coach Mark Morris remarked, “I could not be happier with the performance of our players and with the high scoring games we continued to win. The team is more disciplined and committed than ever before and we look forward to playing Tennessee in two weeks for a shot at the Eastern title.”
Furthermore, the Gamecocks were in high spirits to have played in front of 30 friends and family who had traveled from as far as Ohio and Pennsylvania. “The support from our fans has been overwhelming and a large factor for the high moral and excitement throughout the team and at each match,” added Coach Morris.
Looking ahead, the Gamecocks prepare to play Tennessee and know that the improved defense will be a large part of the upcoming match.
Reserve Side
The reserves had a similar match as they defeated the Wildcats 38-7. They had a consistent high level of intensity and skill throughout the match, scoring nearly every ten minutes. Carolina applied considerable pressure on Kentucky’s back line, forcing dropped balls and turnovers. As well, the Forwards successfully controlled the scrums and rucks.
Michael Doyle received Man of the Match honors for his play at Scrum Half. Taking much of the match into his own hands, he was successful in directing the Forwards and Backs into position and controlling play. Best Back was awarded to freshman wing Isaac Myers. With one try scored, and a series of big runs, Myers improved ball position throughout the game and has continued to advance within the team. Best Forward was awarded to junior prop Jeff Barnhill as he likewise continues to improve week-to-week with massive hits and defensive plays, debilitating the Kentucky offensive line.
Across the board, the team played impressively well. The coaching staff looks forward to seeing how the younger players continue to develop and how they may be incorporated in the upcoming season.
In the forward position, freshman JoJo Johnson was awarded Man of the Match honors as he made his first appearance at Loose Head Prop. Previously playing in the flanker position, JoJo made the switch comfortably and was recognized for his impressive runs, drives, and exceptional work overall.
Additionally, senior captain Tim Holkenborg at Fly Half and freshman Mike Mahon at 8-Man played an outstanding game. Holkenborg scored three tries, six conversions, and two assists, totaling 27 points. Mahon scored a total of two tries in addition to a series of remarkable runs in the 57-7 vistory.
Coach Mark Morris remarked, “I could not be happier with the performance of our players and with the high scoring games we continued to win. The team is more disciplined and committed than ever before and we look forward to playing Tennessee in two weeks for a shot at the Eastern title.”
Furthermore, the Gamecocks were in high spirits to have played in front of 30 friends and family who had traveled from as far as Ohio and Pennsylvania. “The support from our fans has been overwhelming and a large factor for the high moral and excitement throughout the team and at each match,” added Coach Morris.
Looking ahead, the Gamecocks prepare to play Tennessee and know that the improved defense will be a large part of the upcoming match.
Reserve Side
The reserves had a similar match as they defeated the Wildcats 38-7. They had a consistent high level of intensity and skill throughout the match, scoring nearly every ten minutes. Carolina applied considerable pressure on Kentucky’s back line, forcing dropped balls and turnovers. As well, the Forwards successfully controlled the scrums and rucks.
Michael Doyle received Man of the Match honors for his play at Scrum Half. Taking much of the match into his own hands, he was successful in directing the Forwards and Backs into position and controlling play. Best Back was awarded to freshman wing Isaac Myers. With one try scored, and a series of big runs, Myers improved ball position throughout the game and has continued to advance within the team. Best Forward was awarded to junior prop Jeff Barnhill as he likewise continues to improve week-to-week with massive hits and defensive plays, debilitating the Kentucky offensive line.
Across the board, the team played impressively well. The coaching staff looks forward to seeing how the younger players continue to develop and how they may be incorporated in the upcoming season.
Premier Scoring Report
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Reserve Scoring Report
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Carolina Players Head to Savannah for St. Patrick's Tournament
Savannah, GA - This past weekend, two of South Carolina’s own, senior captain Tim Holkenborg and sophomore Michael “Rudy” Rudzinsky, travelled from Columbia to Savannah, GA for the 33rd annual St. Patrick’s Day Rugby Tournament. The event was divided into four brackets (premier, college, alumni, and social), with each representing both genders at multiple divisions. The St. Patrick's Day Rugby Tournament in Savannah is one of the largest in the country with a portion of the proceeds being given to local charities and individuals in the Savannah and surrounding rugby communities for the past 15 years.
Rudzinsky made plans to travel down and play as soon as he heard his home club team, Mystic River Rugby, was doing a mini tour in the South, and when looking for a ride, Holkenborg immediately decided he wanted to play as well.
Making the trip South, along with teams from all over the Eastern Seaboard, Mystic River, a Division I Men’s team based out of Malden, MA is in its first “off-year” in quite some time, after missing playoffs for the first time in six years. Despite the recent setback, the team looked to dominate the social bracket while also enjoying a warm weekend away from the wintery elements of the Northeast.
Holkenborg and Rudzinsky played every minute of team’s three matches, with Holkenborg at flyhalf and kicking for points, and Rudzinsky at scrumhalf and fullback. The 150 minutes of rugby accumulated in the weekend was high-caliber, and the results of the games were 66-0, 42-12, and 36-8, all in Mystic River’s favor.
“It’s great to see our players staying in shape over the break and focused on what needs to be done to continue to be successful,” stated Head Coach Mark Morris. “With two more challenging games left in the regular season [Kentucky and Tennessee], the players have their goals set and will be training hard these next few weeks of SCRC play.”
For more info on Michael Rudzinsky’s home club, where he and his father, Dave, started and continue to run a youth rugby program over the summer, as well as a U-19, U-15, and collegiate side, you may visit Mystic River Rugby online by clicking here.
For complete results from the 2013 St. Patrick’s Day Rugby Tournament, you may visit Savannah Rugby online by clicking here.
Rudzinsky made plans to travel down and play as soon as he heard his home club team, Mystic River Rugby, was doing a mini tour in the South, and when looking for a ride, Holkenborg immediately decided he wanted to play as well.
Making the trip South, along with teams from all over the Eastern Seaboard, Mystic River, a Division I Men’s team based out of Malden, MA is in its first “off-year” in quite some time, after missing playoffs for the first time in six years. Despite the recent setback, the team looked to dominate the social bracket while also enjoying a warm weekend away from the wintery elements of the Northeast.
Holkenborg and Rudzinsky played every minute of team’s three matches, with Holkenborg at flyhalf and kicking for points, and Rudzinsky at scrumhalf and fullback. The 150 minutes of rugby accumulated in the weekend was high-caliber, and the results of the games were 66-0, 42-12, and 36-8, all in Mystic River’s favor.
“It’s great to see our players staying in shape over the break and focused on what needs to be done to continue to be successful,” stated Head Coach Mark Morris. “With two more challenging games left in the regular season [Kentucky and Tennessee], the players have their goals set and will be training hard these next few weeks of SCRC play.”
For more info on Michael Rudzinsky’s home club, where he and his father, Dave, started and continue to run a youth rugby program over the summer, as well as a U-19, U-15, and collegiate side, you may visit Mystic River Rugby online by clicking here.
For complete results from the 2013 St. Patrick’s Day Rugby Tournament, you may visit Savannah Rugby online by clicking here.
Freshman Winger Tim Hamill Receives SCRC Honors
Columbia, SC - Last weekend, Carolina Rugby defeated an tenacious East Carolina squad 47-17 to extend their streak to 5-0 on the season.
Freshmen winger Tim Hamill scored a series of tries, the first of which started 30 meters out. Using his speed, Hamill outran ECU’s Backline to score on the far side. Hamill continued to score a total of 3 tries against ECU and was named Man of the Match. As a freshman, Hamill looks to be a promising player for USC on the field, as well as for his work in on-campus recruitment.
In recognition of Hamill's performance, he received SCRC Player of the Week honors for the Eastern Division.
"The East Division Co-Player of the Week is Tim Hamill, a Freshman wing from the University of South Carolina. Hamill scored three tries on exceptional runs as the Gamecocks collected a 47-17 win over East Carolina in a non-conference game. Hamill also put in a great defense effort limiting opportunities for ECU out wide."
(Click here for a complete look at this week's SCRC Digest from Rugby America's Ted Hardy)
With the award, Carolina Rugby has accumulated three Player of the Week honors this season with senior flyhalf and team captain Tim Holkenborg receiving recognition in weeks one and three of SCRC competition against the universities of Florida and Georgia. The complete list for each division may be found here.
Tim Hamill, along with the rest of Gamecock Nation, looks forward to the upcoming road trip to Lexington, Kentucky to take on the Wildcats of Kentucky on Saturday, March 23rd. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 1:00pm with the reserve side to follow at 2:30pm. Come show your support as Carolina looks to extend their winning streak!
Freshmen winger Tim Hamill scored a series of tries, the first of which started 30 meters out. Using his speed, Hamill outran ECU’s Backline to score on the far side. Hamill continued to score a total of 3 tries against ECU and was named Man of the Match. As a freshman, Hamill looks to be a promising player for USC on the field, as well as for his work in on-campus recruitment.
In recognition of Hamill's performance, he received SCRC Player of the Week honors for the Eastern Division.
"The East Division Co-Player of the Week is Tim Hamill, a Freshman wing from the University of South Carolina. Hamill scored three tries on exceptional runs as the Gamecocks collected a 47-17 win over East Carolina in a non-conference game. Hamill also put in a great defense effort limiting opportunities for ECU out wide."
(Click here for a complete look at this week's SCRC Digest from Rugby America's Ted Hardy)
With the award, Carolina Rugby has accumulated three Player of the Week honors this season with senior flyhalf and team captain Tim Holkenborg receiving recognition in weeks one and three of SCRC competition against the universities of Florida and Georgia. The complete list for each division may be found here.
Tim Hamill, along with the rest of Gamecock Nation, looks forward to the upcoming road trip to Lexington, Kentucky to take on the Wildcats of Kentucky on Saturday, March 23rd. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 1:00pm with the reserve side to follow at 2:30pm. Come show your support as Carolina looks to extend their winning streak!
Carolina Defeats Pirates, Improves to 5-0
Columbia, SC - This past weekend, Carolina Rugby defeated an tenacious East Carolina squad 47-17 to extend their streak to 5-0 on the season.
South Carolina controlled the ball and the scoreboard throughout the first half with aggressive ruck coverage and precise ball play through the backline. Second-Row Mike Mahon scored the first try for Carolina after a series of rucks and pounds around the five-meter line. Following Mahon, Freshmen winger Tim Hamill scored a series of tries, the first of which started 30 meters out. Using his speed, Hamill outran ECU’s Backline to score on the far side. Hamill continued to score a total of 3 tries against ECU and was named Man of the Match. As a freshman, Hamill looks to be a promising player for USC on the field as well as for his work in on campus recruitment. Also recognized was Flyhalf Tim Holkenborg for his scoring 6/7 conversions, and Lock/8-Man Mike Mahon with two tries.
ECU handicapped themselves throughout the first half with six penalties and a total of three yellow-cards, two for high tackles and one for a late hit. Playing with two men out for a portion of the first half, Carolina continued to dominate and ended the first half 28-0.
Going into the second half, the Pirates started strong scoring back-to-back tries making the score 28-12. They capitalized on being more aggressive in the rucks and putting pressure on USC’s backline. The Gamecocks quickly adapted their style of play and scored a series of tries, ending the match 47-17.
“It’s Great to know we can still dominate a game without 6 of our starters, and those 6 reserves who stepped up did a great job taking care of business. I could not be prouder of the way we went deep into the lineup without a drop off in production," stated Head Coach Mark Morris.
Carolina Rugby looks forward to traveling to Lexington, Kentucky to take on the Wildcats of Kentucky on Saturday, March 23rd. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 1:00pm with the reserve side to follow at 2:30pm. Come show your support as Carolina looks to extend their winning streak!
South Carolina controlled the ball and the scoreboard throughout the first half with aggressive ruck coverage and precise ball play through the backline. Second-Row Mike Mahon scored the first try for Carolina after a series of rucks and pounds around the five-meter line. Following Mahon, Freshmen winger Tim Hamill scored a series of tries, the first of which started 30 meters out. Using his speed, Hamill outran ECU’s Backline to score on the far side. Hamill continued to score a total of 3 tries against ECU and was named Man of the Match. As a freshman, Hamill looks to be a promising player for USC on the field as well as for his work in on campus recruitment. Also recognized was Flyhalf Tim Holkenborg for his scoring 6/7 conversions, and Lock/8-Man Mike Mahon with two tries.
ECU handicapped themselves throughout the first half with six penalties and a total of three yellow-cards, two for high tackles and one for a late hit. Playing with two men out for a portion of the first half, Carolina continued to dominate and ended the first half 28-0.
Going into the second half, the Pirates started strong scoring back-to-back tries making the score 28-12. They capitalized on being more aggressive in the rucks and putting pressure on USC’s backline. The Gamecocks quickly adapted their style of play and scored a series of tries, ending the match 47-17.
“It’s Great to know we can still dominate a game without 6 of our starters, and those 6 reserves who stepped up did a great job taking care of business. I could not be prouder of the way we went deep into the lineup without a drop off in production," stated Head Coach Mark Morris.
Carolina Rugby looks forward to traveling to Lexington, Kentucky to take on the Wildcats of Kentucky on Saturday, March 23rd. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 1:00pm with the reserve side to follow at 2:30pm. Come show your support as Carolina looks to extend their winning streak!
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NameMike Mahon
Tim Holkenborg Tim Hamill Tim Holkenborg Tim Holkenborg Tim Holkenborg Mike Mahon Tim Holkenborg Tim Holkenborg Tim Holkenborg Tim Hamill Tim Hamill Tim Holkenborg |
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Carolina Defeats Tigers, Improves to 4-0
Montgomery, AL - This past weekend, Carolina Rugby took on a well-put-together Louisiana State squad that had recently risen to the rank of #24 in the nation leading up to the weekends’ battle of the unbeaten. Both teams, atop their respective divisions, met in Montgomery, Alabama to play at a neutral site, hosted by the Montgomery Yellowhammers, giving neither team an advantage or disadvantage in terms of traveling and being familiar with the pitch.
Carolina kicked off first, and without giving up any ground and displaying high-pressure defense that was reminiscent of the Georgia match a week earlier, the Gamecocks created a turnover very early on. Senior captain Tim Holkenborg took advantage of the fast-paced LSU defense and skipped center Mitch Fontalvo, finding sophomore #13 Michael ‘Rudy’ Rudzinsky on a hard line outside of their centers. This gave Rudzinsky the time to draw the lone wing on LSU’s final line of defense and dish the ball to Matt Beranato, setting up an easy finish for the shifty winger in his first game back from a shoulder injury he suffered against Florida. With a score of 5-0 in the first minute of play, South Carolina kept up the intensity, though several penalties kept the ball on Carolina’s half and in scoring position for the Tigers. Although the Gamecocks were kept on their heels at this point, the defense did a great job of preventing LSU from getting past the gain line, forcing them to go for points when given the opportunity, making the score 5-3, Carolina.
While the Gamecocks had several opportunities to advance the ball off of LSU turnovers in both lineouts and breakdowns, they struggled to capitalize, eventually giving up an LSU try on a counter-attack. It was at this moment, when the score was made 8-5 in LSU’s favor, that Carolina decided it was time to push forward and raise the bar higher, attacking both the forwards and backs, and, more importantly, holding possession of the ball. The Gamecocks were next to strike the scoreboard when Tim Holkenborg kicked two penalty kicks in the final 10 minutes of the half, putting Carolina up 11-8 at the half.
The stellar defense continued throughout the beginning of the second half and despite the fact that control of the ball changed several times in that time, the Gamecocks did not allow LSU to gain any ground easily, counter-rucking effectively and at the right times. With LSU’s frustration growing, after it was shown in the first twenty minutes of the game, another penalty kick was made by Holkenborg, making the score 14-8. As substitutions were made and fresh legs brought on, freshmen Jared Magill, Luke Bolembach, and Walter ‘JoJo’ Johnson provided the team with a spark. There then came another try by Matt Berenato; this time, it was off of a cross-field kick by Holkenborg in which Bolembach’s chase along with the rest of the Gamecock backline proved useful as the ball took a Carolina bounce into Bolembach’s hands and he evaded the tackler, getting the ball off to Berenato on his inside for an easy try. The kick was converted, bringing the score to 21-8.
Despite great defense in their own end, LSU was granted several penalties, setting them up for a maul close to the goal line that Carolina was unable to prevent from going over, making the score 21-13, South Carolina.
Carolina regained possession shortly after the next kickoff and scored one last time in the final minutes as Rudzinsky took a hard hit and rolled off of the defender, keeping his feet and skipping the ball out wide to a very shifty Tim Hamill, who then finished strong with the game’s final points, making the final score 26-13 in the Gamecock’s favor.
Reserves
The Reserve side battled a tough LSU squad, consisting of many A-side players, including Captain Allen Alongi. The game was plagued by knock-ons by both sides and multiple stoppages, leaving the game scoreless at the half.
In the second half, LSU came out quick with a series of breaks, eventually finding the try line after a Carolina error, converting the kick to make the score 7-0. However, as the Gamecocks were not going to roll over easily, they continued to hit hard and make it challenging for LSU to gain any ground. As LSU was unable to do much with the ball at this point, mainly due to Carolina’s willingness to come home with a sweep of LSU’s two sides and put some points on the board, LSU decided it was fair to take a penalty kick in front of the posts when given the opportunity, making the game 10-0 in the Tigers’ favor. Finally, the Gamecocks got the points they were looking for as Christian Black touched the ball down for 5 points, giving freshman Brett Fischmann the chance to take advantage of another 2 points, making the score 10-7, LSU. The Tigers took offense to Carolina’s score and came back within two minutes with another try, making the score 15-7, LSU, and from that point on, the game was controlled in the middle of the pitch with no opportunity for Carolina to come away with a win.
“This was one of the best efforts put forward by a Carolina team in a while, and I couldn’t ask for a better outcome against LSU,” exclaimed Coach Mark Morris. “Picking a man of the match proved to be difficult with everyone playing so well against this Tiger team, but the award goes to Zach Mullineaux.” Mullineaux, a freshman 8-man and second row, proved his worthiness for the award with his superb demonstration of tackling and an even better effort in counter-rucking and stealing a lot of what was believed to be LSU ball.
Morris is also very proud of the team’s focus and commitment to training, taking each game step-by-step. “All the hard work is starting to pay dividends and everyone is playing as a team. Now, it’s time to look forward to hosting East Carolina this Saturday as we continue to focus on each game, one at a time, and hopefully, continue to improve.”
Carolina Rugby looks forward to hosting the Pirates of East Carolina this Saturday, March 2nd at Strom Field. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 1:00pm with the reserve side to follow at 2:30pm. Come show your support as Carolina looks to upend the very team that defeated them this past fall!
Carolina kicked off first, and without giving up any ground and displaying high-pressure defense that was reminiscent of the Georgia match a week earlier, the Gamecocks created a turnover very early on. Senior captain Tim Holkenborg took advantage of the fast-paced LSU defense and skipped center Mitch Fontalvo, finding sophomore #13 Michael ‘Rudy’ Rudzinsky on a hard line outside of their centers. This gave Rudzinsky the time to draw the lone wing on LSU’s final line of defense and dish the ball to Matt Beranato, setting up an easy finish for the shifty winger in his first game back from a shoulder injury he suffered against Florida. With a score of 5-0 in the first minute of play, South Carolina kept up the intensity, though several penalties kept the ball on Carolina’s half and in scoring position for the Tigers. Although the Gamecocks were kept on their heels at this point, the defense did a great job of preventing LSU from getting past the gain line, forcing them to go for points when given the opportunity, making the score 5-3, Carolina.
While the Gamecocks had several opportunities to advance the ball off of LSU turnovers in both lineouts and breakdowns, they struggled to capitalize, eventually giving up an LSU try on a counter-attack. It was at this moment, when the score was made 8-5 in LSU’s favor, that Carolina decided it was time to push forward and raise the bar higher, attacking both the forwards and backs, and, more importantly, holding possession of the ball. The Gamecocks were next to strike the scoreboard when Tim Holkenborg kicked two penalty kicks in the final 10 minutes of the half, putting Carolina up 11-8 at the half.
The stellar defense continued throughout the beginning of the second half and despite the fact that control of the ball changed several times in that time, the Gamecocks did not allow LSU to gain any ground easily, counter-rucking effectively and at the right times. With LSU’s frustration growing, after it was shown in the first twenty minutes of the game, another penalty kick was made by Holkenborg, making the score 14-8. As substitutions were made and fresh legs brought on, freshmen Jared Magill, Luke Bolembach, and Walter ‘JoJo’ Johnson provided the team with a spark. There then came another try by Matt Berenato; this time, it was off of a cross-field kick by Holkenborg in which Bolembach’s chase along with the rest of the Gamecock backline proved useful as the ball took a Carolina bounce into Bolembach’s hands and he evaded the tackler, getting the ball off to Berenato on his inside for an easy try. The kick was converted, bringing the score to 21-8.
Despite great defense in their own end, LSU was granted several penalties, setting them up for a maul close to the goal line that Carolina was unable to prevent from going over, making the score 21-13, South Carolina.
Carolina regained possession shortly after the next kickoff and scored one last time in the final minutes as Rudzinsky took a hard hit and rolled off of the defender, keeping his feet and skipping the ball out wide to a very shifty Tim Hamill, who then finished strong with the game’s final points, making the final score 26-13 in the Gamecock’s favor.
Reserves
The Reserve side battled a tough LSU squad, consisting of many A-side players, including Captain Allen Alongi. The game was plagued by knock-ons by both sides and multiple stoppages, leaving the game scoreless at the half.
In the second half, LSU came out quick with a series of breaks, eventually finding the try line after a Carolina error, converting the kick to make the score 7-0. However, as the Gamecocks were not going to roll over easily, they continued to hit hard and make it challenging for LSU to gain any ground. As LSU was unable to do much with the ball at this point, mainly due to Carolina’s willingness to come home with a sweep of LSU’s two sides and put some points on the board, LSU decided it was fair to take a penalty kick in front of the posts when given the opportunity, making the game 10-0 in the Tigers’ favor. Finally, the Gamecocks got the points they were looking for as Christian Black touched the ball down for 5 points, giving freshman Brett Fischmann the chance to take advantage of another 2 points, making the score 10-7, LSU. The Tigers took offense to Carolina’s score and came back within two minutes with another try, making the score 15-7, LSU, and from that point on, the game was controlled in the middle of the pitch with no opportunity for Carolina to come away with a win.
“This was one of the best efforts put forward by a Carolina team in a while, and I couldn’t ask for a better outcome against LSU,” exclaimed Coach Mark Morris. “Picking a man of the match proved to be difficult with everyone playing so well against this Tiger team, but the award goes to Zach Mullineaux.” Mullineaux, a freshman 8-man and second row, proved his worthiness for the award with his superb demonstration of tackling and an even better effort in counter-rucking and stealing a lot of what was believed to be LSU ball.
Morris is also very proud of the team’s focus and commitment to training, taking each game step-by-step. “All the hard work is starting to pay dividends and everyone is playing as a team. Now, it’s time to look forward to hosting East Carolina this Saturday as we continue to focus on each game, one at a time, and hopefully, continue to improve.”
Carolina Rugby looks forward to hosting the Pirates of East Carolina this Saturday, March 2nd at Strom Field. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 1:00pm with the reserve side to follow at 2:30pm. Come show your support as Carolina looks to upend the very team that defeated them this past fall!
Premier Scoring Report
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Reserve Scoring Report
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SCRC Weekly Digest; Player Of The Week & Coaches Corner
AmericanRugby - LSU (2-0) at South Carolina (3-0) - This is not only one of the top games on the SCRC schedule this weekend, but in all of college rugby. As mentioned above, the game sets the top offensive teams in the SCRC (South Carolina) against the top defense (LSU). South Carolina is averaging 46 points/game and is led by team Captain and flyhalf Tim Holkenborg who is leading the SCRC in points this season. LSU's defense is giving up and average of 9.5 pionts/game and their offense is fully capable of putting up plenty of points. The teams are playing the game in Alabama, so neither team has home field advantage or some of the distractions that come with playing at home. This game may come down to South Carolina's defense. One thing is for certain, eyes are going to be on the SCRC this weekend.
SCRC Player Of The Week
The Week 3 East Division Player of the Week is Tim Holkenborg a Senior flyhalf and Captain for the University of South Carolina. Holkenborg is off to a great start this season and has played a major role in the Gamecocks early season undefeated run. Holkenborg is collecting his second Player of the Week nod of the season after lighting up Georgia this past weekend. Holkenborg scored 27 points on three tries and six conversions. Holkenborg has scored 53 points in three games this season.
"Tim had another excellent game," said South Carolina Head Coach Mark Morris. "He directed the USC backline to the tune of 6 out of the 9 tries Carolina scored, with Tim getting 3 himself." The Forwards scored the other 3 mainly working to give the backs constant good quick ball all day. Even though it was a cold, wet, windy day with more rain and sleet slated for the day USC did a great job of passing and hadling the ball.
SCRC Coaches Corner
For this week's SCRC Coaches Corner, we sit down with University of South Carolina Head Coach Mark Morris and talk about the Gamecock's fast start to the season, expectations, focus, and excitement about the SCRC.
"The players are doing well with our success. We are starting alot of freshmen and sophmores on the team and all of them came from good high school programs that were their state champions or top teams in area. So the boys are expecting to do well. Also with the commitment the team has bought into this season with all the extra conditioning and focus on skills they feel confident about their abilities." ... Click below to read more.
(Click here for a complete look at this week's SCRC Digest from Rugby America's Ted Hardy)
SCRC Player Of The Week
The Week 3 East Division Player of the Week is Tim Holkenborg a Senior flyhalf and Captain for the University of South Carolina. Holkenborg is off to a great start this season and has played a major role in the Gamecocks early season undefeated run. Holkenborg is collecting his second Player of the Week nod of the season after lighting up Georgia this past weekend. Holkenborg scored 27 points on three tries and six conversions. Holkenborg has scored 53 points in three games this season.
"Tim had another excellent game," said South Carolina Head Coach Mark Morris. "He directed the USC backline to the tune of 6 out of the 9 tries Carolina scored, with Tim getting 3 himself." The Forwards scored the other 3 mainly working to give the backs constant good quick ball all day. Even though it was a cold, wet, windy day with more rain and sleet slated for the day USC did a great job of passing and hadling the ball.
SCRC Coaches Corner
For this week's SCRC Coaches Corner, we sit down with University of South Carolina Head Coach Mark Morris and talk about the Gamecock's fast start to the season, expectations, focus, and excitement about the SCRC.
"The players are doing well with our success. We are starting alot of freshmen and sophmores on the team and all of them came from good high school programs that were their state champions or top teams in area. So the boys are expecting to do well. Also with the commitment the team has bought into this season with all the extra conditioning and focus on skills they feel confident about their abilities." ... Click below to read more.
(Click here for a complete look at this week's SCRC Digest from Rugby America's Ted Hardy)
Undefeated Division Leaders Meet in SCRC
RugbyMag - Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference supremacy is on the line Saturday in Montgomery, Ala., as 3-0 South Carolina meets 2-0 LSU for a neutral site clash.
The Gamecocks lead the East Division with wins over Florida, Vanderbilt and Georgia, and the Tigers lead the West Division having beaten Auburn and Alabama.
When these teams met last season, LSU won 28-8.
“Last year, the first 10 minutes they were pretty good. They were flowing pretty well and they actually scored first. What we thought was they were a pretty dominant force,” said LSU captain Allen Alongi of the Gamecocks.
“They beat Kentucky the week before [104-3] so we had to think they were a pretty decent team, so we just came in there with defense as our priority, and that was just the be-all, end-all of the game for us. We just buckled down and started putting them under pressure. I remember them knocking a bunch during that game.”
LSU has the same game plan this year – suffocate South Carolina with defensive pressure.
“The only thing that we wanted to make sure going into the matrix of the SCRC was to make sure that we had the best defense in the league,” said Alongi.
“We kind of look down at the end of the game and we’re more happy with the amount of tries that we didn’t allow versus the tries we scored. That’s a team mindset, not just mine. We like hitting people.”
From South Carolina’s perspective, LSU is beatable, but not easily.
“They’re always a tough team. They’ve got a good flyhalf and a couple fast, good wings,” said South Carolina coach Mark Morris. “They’re going to be very similar to us this year – I think we’re both playing fast-paced rugby and it’s going to come down to who wants it more.”
The Gamecocks have started reaping the benefits of more freshmen coming to Columbia, SC with prior rugby experience, and the welcome influx has heightened the competition for starting spots.
Freshman Mike Mahon out of Fordham Prep in New York was one of the team's MVPs from the fall, and fellow freshman Brian Keown from St. Joe’s Prep in Philadelphia is contributing, too. So are four freshmen from defending Pennsylvania State Champion Downingtown.
“Every practice for us is a competition of who is going to start for our A-side. The kids have all bought into it and worked on the conditioning this year and know that everybody has a chance to start every game. I’m starting anywhere from six to seven freshmen every game,” said Morris.
“That’s been a great help to my program…I’ve got kids that have played four or five years coming in from high school or middle school.”
The Tigers have some youth on their team, too, but are lead by upperclassmen Alongi, Paul Rogers and Will Middleton. Saturday, those guys will try to slow the ascendance of the young Gamecocks in the SCRC hierarchy.
The Gamecocks lead the East Division with wins over Florida, Vanderbilt and Georgia, and the Tigers lead the West Division having beaten Auburn and Alabama.
When these teams met last season, LSU won 28-8.
“Last year, the first 10 minutes they were pretty good. They were flowing pretty well and they actually scored first. What we thought was they were a pretty dominant force,” said LSU captain Allen Alongi of the Gamecocks.
“They beat Kentucky the week before [104-3] so we had to think they were a pretty decent team, so we just came in there with defense as our priority, and that was just the be-all, end-all of the game for us. We just buckled down and started putting them under pressure. I remember them knocking a bunch during that game.”
LSU has the same game plan this year – suffocate South Carolina with defensive pressure.
“The only thing that we wanted to make sure going into the matrix of the SCRC was to make sure that we had the best defense in the league,” said Alongi.
“We kind of look down at the end of the game and we’re more happy with the amount of tries that we didn’t allow versus the tries we scored. That’s a team mindset, not just mine. We like hitting people.”
From South Carolina’s perspective, LSU is beatable, but not easily.
“They’re always a tough team. They’ve got a good flyhalf and a couple fast, good wings,” said South Carolina coach Mark Morris. “They’re going to be very similar to us this year – I think we’re both playing fast-paced rugby and it’s going to come down to who wants it more.”
The Gamecocks have started reaping the benefits of more freshmen coming to Columbia, SC with prior rugby experience, and the welcome influx has heightened the competition for starting spots.
Freshman Mike Mahon out of Fordham Prep in New York was one of the team's MVPs from the fall, and fellow freshman Brian Keown from St. Joe’s Prep in Philadelphia is contributing, too. So are four freshmen from defending Pennsylvania State Champion Downingtown.
“Every practice for us is a competition of who is going to start for our A-side. The kids have all bought into it and worked on the conditioning this year and know that everybody has a chance to start every game. I’m starting anywhere from six to seven freshmen every game,” said Morris.
“That’s been a great help to my program…I’ve got kids that have played four or five years coming in from high school or middle school.”
The Tigers have some youth on their team, too, but are lead by upperclassmen Alongi, Paul Rogers and Will Middleton. Saturday, those guys will try to slow the ascendance of the young Gamecocks in the SCRC hierarchy.
Carolina Defeats Georgia, Improves to 3-0
Columbia, SC - South Carolina continues their undefeated season with a crushing 57-3 victory over the University of Georgia. The Gamecocks kicked off against the Bulldogs and scored their first try 4 minutes into the match. Junior prop David Mysona scored off of a forwards’ pod play that allowed him a 20 meter run through Georgia’s backline. This was the first of a series of tries scored by Carolina.
The weather proved to be Carolina’s biggest struggle due to the slippery conditions. Dropped balls and knock-ons were the most prevalent errors and forced Carolina to quickly adapt. With short concise passes and quick routes, the backline ran smart plays to overcome the limitations. Carolina’s junior center Mitch Fontalvo ran a series of impressive routes scoring two tries early in the match. Along with Michael Rudzinsky and Tim Holkenborg, Carolina’s backs ran long offensive breaks through Georgia’s back line.
Towards the end of the first half, Georgia posted its first and only points on the board at 37 minutes with a successful penalty kick, bringing the score to 31-3 heading into the second half.
With a substantial lead, the Gamecocks replaced five of their starters, with little drop in their on-field performance, further demonstrating the depth of skill and ability on the reserve bench. The Gamecocks remained true to their play and finished the match with a 57-3 victory.
Head Coach Mark Morris recognized David Mysona with the Man of the Match award based on his impressive runs breaking through the Georgia line and his staunch opposition in the rucks. "Mysona is filling his new position at Prop with ease and continues to make the strong runs that he had been known for throughout previous seasons as a Center," added Morris.
Reserve Side
The Reserve side continued Carolina's success with a 15-8 victory over Georgia’s reserve side. The Gamecocks performed well in all aspects of the game and are developing into a promising group of talented players. Freshman players Mitchel MacCartney and Luke Bolembach both played for the Bulldogs due to their limited numbers and performed well against the Gamecocks. Bolembach scored Georgia’s only try at 10 minutes into the second half.
Carolina Rugby looks forward to traveling to Montgomery, Alabama to take on the Tigers of Louisiana State this Saturday, February 23rd at the YMCA Soccer Complex. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 11:00am with the reserve side to follow at 12:30pm.
The weather proved to be Carolina’s biggest struggle due to the slippery conditions. Dropped balls and knock-ons were the most prevalent errors and forced Carolina to quickly adapt. With short concise passes and quick routes, the backline ran smart plays to overcome the limitations. Carolina’s junior center Mitch Fontalvo ran a series of impressive routes scoring two tries early in the match. Along with Michael Rudzinsky and Tim Holkenborg, Carolina’s backs ran long offensive breaks through Georgia’s back line.
Towards the end of the first half, Georgia posted its first and only points on the board at 37 minutes with a successful penalty kick, bringing the score to 31-3 heading into the second half.
With a substantial lead, the Gamecocks replaced five of their starters, with little drop in their on-field performance, further demonstrating the depth of skill and ability on the reserve bench. The Gamecocks remained true to their play and finished the match with a 57-3 victory.
Head Coach Mark Morris recognized David Mysona with the Man of the Match award based on his impressive runs breaking through the Georgia line and his staunch opposition in the rucks. "Mysona is filling his new position at Prop with ease and continues to make the strong runs that he had been known for throughout previous seasons as a Center," added Morris.
Reserve Side
The Reserve side continued Carolina's success with a 15-8 victory over Georgia’s reserve side. The Gamecocks performed well in all aspects of the game and are developing into a promising group of talented players. Freshman players Mitchel MacCartney and Luke Bolembach both played for the Bulldogs due to their limited numbers and performed well against the Gamecocks. Bolembach scored Georgia’s only try at 10 minutes into the second half.
Carolina Rugby looks forward to traveling to Montgomery, Alabama to take on the Tigers of Louisiana State this Saturday, February 23rd at the YMCA Soccer Complex. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 11:00am with the reserve side to follow at 12:30pm.
Premier Scoring Report
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Reserve Scoring Report
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Carolina's Michael Rudzinsky to Represent US in Maccabiah Games
Columbia, SC - Throughout the past year, sophomore center Michael ‘Rudy’ Rudzinsky has been training for a national team: the USA Maccabi Rugby Team. This elite group of players has the amazing opportunity to travel to Israel and play in the 19th Maccabiah Games this summer, in July of 2013.
For those who are not familiar with the games, the Maccabiah Games take place every four years, just like the Olympics, and are equivalent to the Olympics…except that it’s for Jewish athletes. The “Jewish Olympics,”as the games are often called, is the world’s largest Jewish athletic competition in the tradition and value of the Maccabi, emphasizing the centrality of the State of Israel in the life of the Jewish people. The Maccabiah Games began in 1932 where almost 400 athletes from 18 countries participated in their respective sports and events, beginning a tradition that would grow to the 9,000+ athletes that represented 54 countries in 2009.
The University of South Carolina is proud to announce Michael’s selection to the USA Maccabi Rugby Team, as he has the honor of marching into Teddy Stadium for Opening Ceremonies on July 18th, 2013, not only representing Carolina Rugby and his club team out of Malden, MA, Mystic River Rugby, but also wearing our country’s colors, proudly and deservedly.
Michael’s drive to be selected for this team has been evident in his routine workouts of INSANITY, in which he just finished the 60-day program, and training and running on the side of practices and matches. “It feels amazing to be able to say I’m representing the USA in Israel this summer with such an exceptional group of guys. The talent at the tryouts made it so hard for coaches to select the best team they could; I’m just so happy I get to be a part of it,” says Michael.
It’s not the first time a Rudzinsky has been selected to represent our country in the Maccabiah Games, as Michael is the first USA rugby legacy, continuing the tradition of his father, Dave Rudzinsky who won a bronze medal in ’89 in the 13th Maccabiah Games. Dave will also be traveling to Israel with Michael as a part of the incredible coaching staff that selected Rudzinsky for this honor.
The first tryouts took place in Chicago over Labor Day weekend of 2012 with competition for making it to the next round of tryouts containing about 60 Jewish rugby players from all over the country. The elite squad selected for the second, and final, tryout was given an objective to complete INSANITY and communicate weekly through a strength & conditioning online forum. Michael was responsive throughout the process and has been fully committed to the goal of making this team since day one. The hard work showed over the tedious days in Chula Vista, CA at the final tryout held January 30th-February 3rd. The 40 or so men trained at the Olympic Training Center and even had a morning to work out with the Navy Seals on Coronado Beach, getting “wet & sandy.” (Click here for a brief video outlining the Navy Seals workout performed by the athletes)
At the end of the weekend, Michael had the joy of hearing his name announced to the final squad of 30 that will set the bar high on the Road to Gold for both 15's and 7's. He has already begun fundraising for the trip and looks forward to his departure on July 6th. "The Road to Gold has already started; I’m doing everything I can to better my team and give USA the best chance of returning home in August with two gold medals. I can hardly wait, and I know the same goes for all of my Jewish brothers wherever they may be training and playing," adds Michael.
For more on the US Maccabi Rugby Team and the tryouts, as well as extraordinary staff, visit Rugby Mag and This Is American Rugby.
For those who are not familiar with the games, the Maccabiah Games take place every four years, just like the Olympics, and are equivalent to the Olympics…except that it’s for Jewish athletes. The “Jewish Olympics,”as the games are often called, is the world’s largest Jewish athletic competition in the tradition and value of the Maccabi, emphasizing the centrality of the State of Israel in the life of the Jewish people. The Maccabiah Games began in 1932 where almost 400 athletes from 18 countries participated in their respective sports and events, beginning a tradition that would grow to the 9,000+ athletes that represented 54 countries in 2009.
The University of South Carolina is proud to announce Michael’s selection to the USA Maccabi Rugby Team, as he has the honor of marching into Teddy Stadium for Opening Ceremonies on July 18th, 2013, not only representing Carolina Rugby and his club team out of Malden, MA, Mystic River Rugby, but also wearing our country’s colors, proudly and deservedly.
Michael’s drive to be selected for this team has been evident in his routine workouts of INSANITY, in which he just finished the 60-day program, and training and running on the side of practices and matches. “It feels amazing to be able to say I’m representing the USA in Israel this summer with such an exceptional group of guys. The talent at the tryouts made it so hard for coaches to select the best team they could; I’m just so happy I get to be a part of it,” says Michael.
It’s not the first time a Rudzinsky has been selected to represent our country in the Maccabiah Games, as Michael is the first USA rugby legacy, continuing the tradition of his father, Dave Rudzinsky who won a bronze medal in ’89 in the 13th Maccabiah Games. Dave will also be traveling to Israel with Michael as a part of the incredible coaching staff that selected Rudzinsky for this honor.
The first tryouts took place in Chicago over Labor Day weekend of 2012 with competition for making it to the next round of tryouts containing about 60 Jewish rugby players from all over the country. The elite squad selected for the second, and final, tryout was given an objective to complete INSANITY and communicate weekly through a strength & conditioning online forum. Michael was responsive throughout the process and has been fully committed to the goal of making this team since day one. The hard work showed over the tedious days in Chula Vista, CA at the final tryout held January 30th-February 3rd. The 40 or so men trained at the Olympic Training Center and even had a morning to work out with the Navy Seals on Coronado Beach, getting “wet & sandy.” (Click here for a brief video outlining the Navy Seals workout performed by the athletes)
At the end of the weekend, Michael had the joy of hearing his name announced to the final squad of 30 that will set the bar high on the Road to Gold for both 15's and 7's. He has already begun fundraising for the trip and looks forward to his departure on July 6th. "The Road to Gold has already started; I’m doing everything I can to better my team and give USA the best chance of returning home in August with two gold medals. I can hardly wait, and I know the same goes for all of my Jewish brothers wherever they may be training and playing," adds Michael.
For more on the US Maccabi Rugby Team and the tryouts, as well as extraordinary staff, visit Rugby Mag and This Is American Rugby.
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Carolina Defeats Commodores, Improves to 2-0
Columbia, SC - With an at-home win over the Vanderbilt Commodores, the Gamecocks bring their record to 2-0 in the Southeastern Conference. The last time these two teams met it developed into am overtime battle with Carolina escaping with the 34-27 win.
As South Carolina kicked off their first home match of the season, in front of one of largest crowds in recent years, the Commodores came out hard with a familiar intensity. Catching the Gamecocks off guard, Vanderbilt was stronger and much more aggressive in the rucks, forcing pressure on both the forwards and the backs. Making a break off of a ruck 15 meters out, the Commodores scored their first try at nine minutes in, bringing the score to 5-0. The conversion was no good. Not to be outdone, the Gamecocks responded five minutes later with a try by freshman wing Tim Hamill.
Struggling with knock-ons and turnovers, Carolina regrouped to develop a cohesive level of play between the forwards and the backs. Heading into the second half, the score remained tight at 19-12; Gamecocks up with a one try lead.
Beginning with the second half, Carolina paced themselves and began integrating the loose forwards and backs into a smoother and more comfortable method of play. Capitalizing on winning and holding the rucks, Carolina allowed the back line to perform calculated plays resulting in long runs by senior Captain Tim Holkenborg, junior center Mitch Fontalvo, sophomore flanker Dana Corcoran, freshman flanker Jared Magill, and Tim Hamill. Holding the Commodores in the teens for most of the match, Carolina utilized players across the board, bringing the final score to 46-26.
The coaching staff recognized solid performances from various younger players, to include Dana Corcoran who debuted in his first premier side match, walking away with a try to show for it. Tim Hamill scored two tries, one in each half, in addition to his solid backline play and defensive tackles. Both freshmen flankers Ben Mather and Jared Magill replaced senior starters at halftime, with Magill scoring his first premier side try.
Head Coach Mark Morris recognized the value of such a dynamic team and the lack of reliance on a few talented players. “The depth of the team has proved to be more sophisticated and has allowed us to adapt based on our opponent rather than rely on a few limited strategies. I am really proud of the performance from evryone this week, and I look forward to the rematch against Georgia.”
Carolina Rugby looks forward to hosting the Georgia Bulldogs this Saturday, February 16th at Strom Field. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 1:00pm with the reserve side to follow at 2:30pm.
As South Carolina kicked off their first home match of the season, in front of one of largest crowds in recent years, the Commodores came out hard with a familiar intensity. Catching the Gamecocks off guard, Vanderbilt was stronger and much more aggressive in the rucks, forcing pressure on both the forwards and the backs. Making a break off of a ruck 15 meters out, the Commodores scored their first try at nine minutes in, bringing the score to 5-0. The conversion was no good. Not to be outdone, the Gamecocks responded five minutes later with a try by freshman wing Tim Hamill.
Struggling with knock-ons and turnovers, Carolina regrouped to develop a cohesive level of play between the forwards and the backs. Heading into the second half, the score remained tight at 19-12; Gamecocks up with a one try lead.
Beginning with the second half, Carolina paced themselves and began integrating the loose forwards and backs into a smoother and more comfortable method of play. Capitalizing on winning and holding the rucks, Carolina allowed the back line to perform calculated plays resulting in long runs by senior Captain Tim Holkenborg, junior center Mitch Fontalvo, sophomore flanker Dana Corcoran, freshman flanker Jared Magill, and Tim Hamill. Holding the Commodores in the teens for most of the match, Carolina utilized players across the board, bringing the final score to 46-26.
The coaching staff recognized solid performances from various younger players, to include Dana Corcoran who debuted in his first premier side match, walking away with a try to show for it. Tim Hamill scored two tries, one in each half, in addition to his solid backline play and defensive tackles. Both freshmen flankers Ben Mather and Jared Magill replaced senior starters at halftime, with Magill scoring his first premier side try.
Head Coach Mark Morris recognized the value of such a dynamic team and the lack of reliance on a few talented players. “The depth of the team has proved to be more sophisticated and has allowed us to adapt based on our opponent rather than rely on a few limited strategies. I am really proud of the performance from evryone this week, and I look forward to the rematch against Georgia.”
Carolina Rugby looks forward to hosting the Georgia Bulldogs this Saturday, February 16th at Strom Field. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 1:00pm with the reserve side to follow at 2:30pm.
Scoring Report
Time14:00
23:00 23:00 32:00 32:00 45:00 54:00 61:00 61:00 73:00 73:00 75:00 |
NameTim Hamill
Brian Keown Tim Holkenborg Alex Fisher Tim Holkenborg Tim Hamill Dana Corcoran Mitch Fontalvo Tim Holkenborg Jared Magill Tim Holkenborg Tim Holkenborg |
ActionTry
Try Con Try Con Try Try Try Con Try Con PK |
Carolina to Host the Commodores of Vanderbilt
Columbia, SC - South Carolina is flying high after their big win last weekend over Florida. The key this weekend is not overlooking the travelling Commodores who are playing their first conference game of the season. Vanderbilt nearly snuck a win against South Carolina last season. With a win already under their belt and home field advantage, the Gamecocks have a good opportunity to build more momentum this weekend.
Looking ahead to this weekend, the SCRC Eastern Division Player of the Week for last week was announced today with South Carolina senior Tim Holkenborg taking the honors. Holkenborg, who serves as the Team Captain, showed his mettle in pacing the Gamecocks to a big win over Florida. The flyhalf posted 15 points with a try, two conversions, and two penalty goals in the 35-28 victory. Holkenborg was a 2nd Team All-SCRC selection as a scrumhalf in 2012 and was recently selected to the SCRC 7's All-Tournament Team. This is Holkenborg's first Player of the Week honor.
(Click here for a complete look at this week's SCRC Digest from Rugby America's Ted Hardy)
Looking ahead to this weekend, the SCRC Eastern Division Player of the Week for last week was announced today with South Carolina senior Tim Holkenborg taking the honors. Holkenborg, who serves as the Team Captain, showed his mettle in pacing the Gamecocks to a big win over Florida. The flyhalf posted 15 points with a try, two conversions, and two penalty goals in the 35-28 victory. Holkenborg was a 2nd Team All-SCRC selection as a scrumhalf in 2012 and was recently selected to the SCRC 7's All-Tournament Team. This is Holkenborg's first Player of the Week honor.
(Click here for a complete look at this week's SCRC Digest from Rugby America's Ted Hardy)
Carolina Successful Over Florida Gators
The Gamecocks hit the road this past weekend for an away match hosted by the University of Florida. In previous seasons, the Gators have been an intimidating opponent and remained true to their reputation for being a powerful and physical rugby team.
Premier Match
Senior flanker and 2012 Team MVP Josh Walsh received the initial kick-off, though immediately took a hard hit, losing the ball to Florida, allowing the Gators to score within the first minute of play. Fearing a possible repetition of the past, the Gamecocks pulled themselves together and returned with a try at the four-minute mark by wing Alex Fisher. Team Captain Tim Holkenborg successfully
converted to even the score.
Going into the second half, Carolina lead 20-18. Although they were feeling comfortable with the level of play, the score remained tight. The Gamecocks scored several times to develop a comfortable cushion with tries from Alex Fisher, freshman forward Zach Mullineaux, freshman wing Tim Hamill, Tim Holkenborg, and junior center Mitch Fontalvo. Multiple penalty kicks added to the cushion to give the Gamecock’s their final score of 35.
Going into the 80th minute, the Gators made one last effort to score and were successful with a converted try to give them their final score of 28.
With a final score of 35-28 the Gamecocks are elated by the win and the performance of their teammates. Head Coach Mark Morris could not be any prouder of his team and their game play. “The score is hardly indicative of the performance I saw here today. The forwards consistently held control over the rucks and the back line’s solid flow prevented Florida’s attach on the outside. The collective talent of this new group of freshmen and sophomores, coupled with the upperclassmen, is truly outstanding and is taking our program in a positive direction with unwavering intensity.”
The additional practices and heightened discipline are producing a Carolina Rugby team that is sure to be a force within the Southeastern Conference. As the team looks ahead, they will continue to take each match and each practice one day at a time. Focusing, as they have done, on the smaller aspects of the game, the Gamecocks will continue to improve substantially.
Reserve Match
Carolina continued its success with a final score of 34-24 in the reserve match. Five minutes into the match, Zach Mullineaux picked the ball 15 meters out from the side of a ruck. Hitting a hole in the Gator’s defensive back line, Mullineaux split the backs to score the first try of the match. Freshman fullback Luke Bolembach made a successful conversion.
The reserve side continued with tries from Zach Mullineaux, Lawson Ballard, freshman wing Aiden Brougham-Cook, and freshman scrum-half Matt Holkenborg. Battling through injuries, the players worked around substitute pack members with those of the back line. With control over the rucks and a conditioned back line, the Gamecocks made the best of their size and their skill to finish with a 34-24 victory.
Carolina Rugby looks forward to hosting the Vanderbilt Commodores this Saturday, February 9th at Strom Field. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 1:00pm with the reserve side to follow at 2:30pm.
Premier Match
Senior flanker and 2012 Team MVP Josh Walsh received the initial kick-off, though immediately took a hard hit, losing the ball to Florida, allowing the Gators to score within the first minute of play. Fearing a possible repetition of the past, the Gamecocks pulled themselves together and returned with a try at the four-minute mark by wing Alex Fisher. Team Captain Tim Holkenborg successfully
converted to even the score.
Going into the second half, Carolina lead 20-18. Although they were feeling comfortable with the level of play, the score remained tight. The Gamecocks scored several times to develop a comfortable cushion with tries from Alex Fisher, freshman forward Zach Mullineaux, freshman wing Tim Hamill, Tim Holkenborg, and junior center Mitch Fontalvo. Multiple penalty kicks added to the cushion to give the Gamecock’s their final score of 35.
Going into the 80th minute, the Gators made one last effort to score and were successful with a converted try to give them their final score of 28.
With a final score of 35-28 the Gamecocks are elated by the win and the performance of their teammates. Head Coach Mark Morris could not be any prouder of his team and their game play. “The score is hardly indicative of the performance I saw here today. The forwards consistently held control over the rucks and the back line’s solid flow prevented Florida’s attach on the outside. The collective talent of this new group of freshmen and sophomores, coupled with the upperclassmen, is truly outstanding and is taking our program in a positive direction with unwavering intensity.”
The additional practices and heightened discipline are producing a Carolina Rugby team that is sure to be a force within the Southeastern Conference. As the team looks ahead, they will continue to take each match and each practice one day at a time. Focusing, as they have done, on the smaller aspects of the game, the Gamecocks will continue to improve substantially.
Reserve Match
Carolina continued its success with a final score of 34-24 in the reserve match. Five minutes into the match, Zach Mullineaux picked the ball 15 meters out from the side of a ruck. Hitting a hole in the Gator’s defensive back line, Mullineaux split the backs to score the first try of the match. Freshman fullback Luke Bolembach made a successful conversion.
The reserve side continued with tries from Zach Mullineaux, Lawson Ballard, freshman wing Aiden Brougham-Cook, and freshman scrum-half Matt Holkenborg. Battling through injuries, the players worked around substitute pack members with those of the back line. With control over the rucks and a conditioned back line, the Gamecocks made the best of their size and their skill to finish with a 34-24 victory.
Carolina Rugby looks forward to hosting the Vanderbilt Commodores this Saturday, February 9th at Strom Field. Kickoff for the premier side is scheduled for 1:00pm with the reserve side to follow at 2:30pm.
2013 Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference Preview
Columbia, SC - This coming weekend, the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference(SCRC) kicks off the 2013 conference schedule with four games on tap. The SCRC is currently comprised of 11 teams split into two divisions, East and West. The University of Florida is the reigning SCRC champion having defeated Tennessee 22-14 in the inaugural SCRC Championship game last April. LSU and Alabama served as the other conference semifinalists.
Although the SCRC has 11 teams competing in conference play this spring, the conference actually has 11 full members and 3 associate members. The associate members are Arkansas, Missouri, and Texas A&M. All of which are expected to compete at the 2013 SCRC Olympic Rugby Championship. All teams save for Vanderbilt and Arkansas competed at the 2012 event.
(Click here for a complete look at the SCRC teams and how they are shaping up for the 2013 conference season... article by Ted Hardy of Rugby America)
Although the SCRC has 11 teams competing in conference play this spring, the conference actually has 11 full members and 3 associate members. The associate members are Arkansas, Missouri, and Texas A&M. All of which are expected to compete at the 2013 SCRC Olympic Rugby Championship. All teams save for Vanderbilt and Arkansas competed at the 2012 event.
(Click here for a complete look at the SCRC teams and how they are shaping up for the 2013 conference season... article by Ted Hardy of Rugby America)
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University of South Carolina
2012 Record: 10-7 (2-4 in SCRC) Top returning players (Position/Class): Matt Berenato (Wing/Junior) Tim Holkenborg (Scrumhalf, Flyhalf/Senior) David Mysona (Utility/Junior) Rob Davila (Flanker/Senior) Josh Walsh (Flanker/Senior) Michael Rudzinsky (Center/Sophomore) |
Promising newcomers (Position/Class): Mike Mahon (No. 8/Freshman) Brian Keown (Scrumhalf/Freshman) Luke Bolembach (Flyhalf, Wing/Freshman) |
After a disappointing 2012 SCRC campaign, South Carolina is going all in and is after the title in 2013. Bolstered by an incoming class of experienced Freshman players, South Carolina was able to easily fill some holes in the lineup. The Gamecocks boast a deep pack of forwards and good team speed that is boosted by All-SCRC 7’s players Matt Berenato and Tim Holkenborg. Team MVP Josh Walsh is also back and anchors the back row. The Gamecocks can set the pace for their season in Week 1 as they are on the road to face East Division contender Florida in a must-win game.
“Our team speed and depth in the forwards should provide us the ability to play fast ball this season. Our backs have outstanding speed and chemistry and several outstanding runners,” said Gamecock Head Coach Mark Morris. “We need to continue to work on our offloading and run lines to make the line breaks so we can use our team speed. We have a very young team in comparison to years past, though we have plenty of veteran leadership in the mix to keep the consistency going," adds Coach Morris.
“Our team speed and depth in the forwards should provide us the ability to play fast ball this season. Our backs have outstanding speed and chemistry and several outstanding runners,” said Gamecock Head Coach Mark Morris. “We need to continue to work on our offloading and run lines to make the line breaks so we can use our team speed. We have a very young team in comparison to years past, though we have plenty of veteran leadership in the mix to keep the consistency going," adds Coach Morris.
Carolina Rugby Alumnus, Corey Benov, Makes His Mark
Columbia, SC - A degree from Carolina can certainly take you anywhere. Not being afraid to leave his comfort zone has taken Corey Benov beyond a few time zones in the United States to a world most of us would never dream of seeing in person. The Illinois native has spent the last two years in Mongolia with the Peace Corps. His life since graduation could be considered distance learning or continuing education in the truest sense, while making more friends than the average teenager does on Facebook.
"I hope someday to say I have a friend from every country on the planet,” Corey says. “How cool would that be? We have so much to learn from each other, and a lifetime isn't near long enough to even scratch the surface.”
Click here for the complete article on Carolina Rugby alumnus Corey Benov, recognizing his service in the United States Peace Corps.
"I hope someday to say I have a friend from every country on the planet,” Corey says. “How cool would that be? We have so much to learn from each other, and a lifetime isn't near long enough to even scratch the surface.”
Click here for the complete article on Carolina Rugby alumnus Corey Benov, recognizing his service in the United States Peace Corps.
Carolina Rugby Prepares for Championship Run
Columbia, SC - With only a few weeks left until the start of the spring season, Carolina Rugby is ready for another shot at the Southeastern Rugby Championship. "The players have worked hard all semester and the freshmen have done well integrating into our style of play," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "We got off to a great start last year before falling off mid-season. Thankfully, we were able to address our shortcomings and rally back for a strong finish, though with a conference like ours, you rarely get a second chance once you fall behind."
The Gamecocks will have three home matches (Vanderbilt, Georgia, and East Carolina) and four away matches (Florida, Louisiana State, Kentucky, and Tennessee) in the spring matrix. The Louisiana State match, while originally scheduled to take place in Columbia, will be held at a neutral site in Montgomery, Alabama in accordance to an agreement made last year by the two teams. The East Carolina match will take the place of what was originally the Gamecock's sole Bye Weekend in order to assist the independent based Pirates in securing enough DI-A matches to qualify for Nationals. While the results of the match will not affect South Carolina's standings within the SCRC, it will have an effect should the Gamecocks be in consideration for an At-Large bid to Nationals.
Carolina's performance throughout the season will determine their eligibility to compete for the Southeastern Rugby Championship and, ultimately, the National Championship in April. In 2012, Florida defeated Tennessee 22-14 at the championship match, held in Montgomery, Alabama, to win the inaugural SCRC title. Florida qualified for the 2012 D1-AA playoffs by virtue of its Southeast Conference championship, while Tennessee received an At-Large bid. Tennessee, ultimately, defeated Maryland 47-13 and Florida State 45-27 to reach the Quarterfinals in Utah.
"We have a very young team in comparison to years past, though we have plenty of veteran leadership in the mix to keep the consistency going," adds Coach Morris. "I would say our biggest deficit is size, especially in the pack, though I'm confident we can adjust. We'll only have a few weeks to prepare once the players return from the winter break, so it's important that we make every scrimmage count and get ourselves in the right mindset before we make the first road trip to Gainesville on February 2nd."
For more information on the upcoming spring schedule, please click here.
The Gamecocks will have three home matches (Vanderbilt, Georgia, and East Carolina) and four away matches (Florida, Louisiana State, Kentucky, and Tennessee) in the spring matrix. The Louisiana State match, while originally scheduled to take place in Columbia, will be held at a neutral site in Montgomery, Alabama in accordance to an agreement made last year by the two teams. The East Carolina match will take the place of what was originally the Gamecock's sole Bye Weekend in order to assist the independent based Pirates in securing enough DI-A matches to qualify for Nationals. While the results of the match will not affect South Carolina's standings within the SCRC, it will have an effect should the Gamecocks be in consideration for an At-Large bid to Nationals.
Carolina's performance throughout the season will determine their eligibility to compete for the Southeastern Rugby Championship and, ultimately, the National Championship in April. In 2012, Florida defeated Tennessee 22-14 at the championship match, held in Montgomery, Alabama, to win the inaugural SCRC title. Florida qualified for the 2012 D1-AA playoffs by virtue of its Southeast Conference championship, while Tennessee received an At-Large bid. Tennessee, ultimately, defeated Maryland 47-13 and Florida State 45-27 to reach the Quarterfinals in Utah.
"We have a very young team in comparison to years past, though we have plenty of veteran leadership in the mix to keep the consistency going," adds Coach Morris. "I would say our biggest deficit is size, especially in the pack, though I'm confident we can adjust. We'll only have a few weeks to prepare once the players return from the winter break, so it's important that we make every scrimmage count and get ourselves in the right mindset before we make the first road trip to Gainesville on February 2nd."
For more information on the upcoming spring schedule, please click here.
Carolina Rugby Announces New Student Officers
Columbia, SC - Carolina Rugby is pleased to announce the incoming officer corps for the 2013 calendar year. These men will lead the Gamecocks in to their second year as members of the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference, along with continuing to build on the team’s recent accomplishments, making Carolina Rugby a premier contender in Division I rugby.
“Being selected as an officer is one of high honor and should be revered as such,” commented Head Coach Mark Morris. “I am pleased at the number of individuals who were nominated and, ultimately, proud of those who were voted in. It takes leaders both on and off the field for us to do what we do, so I look forward to working with these men in the coming season.”
For a complete list of the new student officers, please click here.
“Being selected as an officer is one of high honor and should be revered as such,” commented Head Coach Mark Morris. “I am pleased at the number of individuals who were nominated and, ultimately, proud of those who were voted in. It takes leaders both on and off the field for us to do what we do, so I look forward to working with these men in the coming season.”
For a complete list of the new student officers, please click here.
Carolina Rugby Announces Fall Player Awards
Columbia, SC - Carolina Rugby is pleased to announce the recipients of the fall 2012 player awards. The recipients have distinguished themselves both on and off the field as dedicated team members who represent the very best of Carolina Rugby.
Following the awards ceremony, Head Coach Mark Morris took a few moments to reflect. "I stand here tonight with a great deal of pride in the student-athletes I have the privilege to coach and mentor here at the University of South Carolina. These awards are the culmination of months of hard work and dedication by our more than 60 student-athletes, and I am honored to recognize a select few who have truly made an impact on our program. I wish all of our graduates and visiting players a successful future, and I look forward to seeing them again next year as fellow Olde Boys. The future is bright for Carolina Rugby, and I look forward to the coming season."
Following the awards ceremony, Head Coach Mark Morris took a few moments to reflect. "I stand here tonight with a great deal of pride in the student-athletes I have the privilege to coach and mentor here at the University of South Carolina. These awards are the culmination of months of hard work and dedication by our more than 60 student-athletes, and I am honored to recognize a select few who have truly made an impact on our program. I wish all of our graduates and visiting players a successful future, and I look forward to seeing them again next year as fellow Olde Boys. The future is bright for Carolina Rugby, and I look forward to the coming season."
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Most Valuable Player
Tim Holkenborg 
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Most Valuable Forward
Josh Walsh 
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Most Valuable Back
Matthew Berenato 
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Rookie of the Season
Mike Mahon 
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Most Improved
Alex Darrah 
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Special Achievement
James Farrar 
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Carolina Rugby Teams Up with Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive
Columbia, SC - On campus, the Carolina Rugby Team is a regular partner with the annual Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive, wherein players assist the American Red Cross in its on-campus operations and donate blood throughout the week. The Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive is a longstanding tradition of the Carolina community. As the largest collegiate blood battle in the nation and the largest blood drive in the Southeast, it has been helping area residents for more than 28 years. Since 1985, the Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive has yielded more than 100,000 units of blood.
“I am proud of the team for their 12th consecutive year of involvement with the American Red Cross,” commented Head Coach Mark Morris. “Participating in charitable events such as the Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive enables our young men to give back to the community, and we believe that altruism leads to a better sportsmanlike attitude both on and off the pitch. Nearly every player assisted with the onsite operations and two-thirds donated to the cause. We look forward to a long partnership with the Red Cross and others as we strive to do our part to give back to the community.”
This year, the coveted blood drive trophy will be awarded to the Univrsity of South Carolina during the Carolina-Clemson football match for its donation of 3,655 pints to Clemson's 3,534, giving USC five wins in a row and fourteen wins overall. Carolina Rugby is proud of its contribution to this year's blood drive, though more importantly it is thankful for all those who gave the "Gift of Life" this holiday season. Go Gamecocks!
Click here for a special article in this week’s issue of USC Times on Carolina Rugby alumnus Jeff Smolka, recognizing 12 years of service and leadership with the Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive Campaign.
“I am proud of the team for their 12th consecutive year of involvement with the American Red Cross,” commented Head Coach Mark Morris. “Participating in charitable events such as the Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive enables our young men to give back to the community, and we believe that altruism leads to a better sportsmanlike attitude both on and off the pitch. Nearly every player assisted with the onsite operations and two-thirds donated to the cause. We look forward to a long partnership with the Red Cross and others as we strive to do our part to give back to the community.”
This year, the coveted blood drive trophy will be awarded to the Univrsity of South Carolina during the Carolina-Clemson football match for its donation of 3,655 pints to Clemson's 3,534, giving USC five wins in a row and fourteen wins overall. Carolina Rugby is proud of its contribution to this year's blood drive, though more importantly it is thankful for all those who gave the "Gift of Life" this holiday season. Go Gamecocks!
Click here for a special article in this week’s issue of USC Times on Carolina Rugby alumnus Jeff Smolka, recognizing 12 years of service and leadership with the Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive Campaign.
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Alumni Return to Campus - Celebrate 45 Years of Gamecock Rugby
Columbia, SC - The 2012 Palmetto State Champions welcomed back the ruggers of yesteryear to celebrate 45 years of Carolina Rugby this past weekend. The 2012 Carolina Olde Boys Weekend began at 7:00pm on Friday with the 11th annual alumni match followed by a Premier match against the Charleston Outlaws at 8:30pm.
A slow start by the Gamecocks and multiple infractions called on both teams hindered the early progression of the game, however, as soon as Carolina showed their determination to focus on team defense and breakdowns at the ruck they were able to develop a strong support system and string together a few break away runs. After scoring a few tries and setting the pace for the game, Carolina did not let up one bit, playing a well-fought match against COB, coming out victorious in the end, 20-12.
Following a round of photographs and a few more stories of mischievou youth, the Premier Side took to the field to welcome the 2012 Division II Men’s National Sweet 16 finalist, the Charleston Outlaws. Carolina knew it would be a tough matchup and came out with an effective pace, scoring an early try on great support and ball movement by Alex Darrah and Josh Walsh. After missing the conversion, Carolina played a great defensive game, as penalties continued to plague the team’s offensive success. Quick defense led by the Charleston back line was the cause of many Gamecock turnovers, as size and experience served to help the Outlaws drive down the field and kick two unanswered penalty kicks, making the score 6-5. With minutes remaining in the half, Carolina continued to fight on defense, taking advantage of downfield support with Mike Doyle and Mike Rudzinsky working together for another Carolina try. After missing the conversion, the Gamecocks went into the half winning 10-6, with a positive mindset for outcome of the game.
As Carolina came out in the second half, prepared to defend their lead, penalties and offensive mistakes flipped possession of the game and the score as well. Not once did Charleston give up, as their experience and strength provided them with enough to put two more tries on the board to USC’s one in the final minutes of the game. Despite a hard-fought battle, Carolina came out losing 18-15. Even though Carolina had an opportunity to tie the Outlaws with a 3 point penalty kick less than 20 meters out, the team chose to play for the win on a quick-tap. “It was a team decision…we knew we had a chance to beat this team, though we wanted to see, as a team, how it would turn out,”commented Head Coach Mark Morris. “I’m not disappointed in our guys in the slightest bit. We gave it a lot of heart and have a lot to look forward to for the spring.”
COB is now a 501(c)3 non-profit organization - DONATE TODAY!
Visit COB today online
Join COB today on Facebook
Visit Coach Mark Morris's Blog regarding COB Weekend
A slow start by the Gamecocks and multiple infractions called on both teams hindered the early progression of the game, however, as soon as Carolina showed their determination to focus on team defense and breakdowns at the ruck they were able to develop a strong support system and string together a few break away runs. After scoring a few tries and setting the pace for the game, Carolina did not let up one bit, playing a well-fought match against COB, coming out victorious in the end, 20-12.
Following a round of photographs and a few more stories of mischievou youth, the Premier Side took to the field to welcome the 2012 Division II Men’s National Sweet 16 finalist, the Charleston Outlaws. Carolina knew it would be a tough matchup and came out with an effective pace, scoring an early try on great support and ball movement by Alex Darrah and Josh Walsh. After missing the conversion, Carolina played a great defensive game, as penalties continued to plague the team’s offensive success. Quick defense led by the Charleston back line was the cause of many Gamecock turnovers, as size and experience served to help the Outlaws drive down the field and kick two unanswered penalty kicks, making the score 6-5. With minutes remaining in the half, Carolina continued to fight on defense, taking advantage of downfield support with Mike Doyle and Mike Rudzinsky working together for another Carolina try. After missing the conversion, the Gamecocks went into the half winning 10-6, with a positive mindset for outcome of the game.
As Carolina came out in the second half, prepared to defend their lead, penalties and offensive mistakes flipped possession of the game and the score as well. Not once did Charleston give up, as their experience and strength provided them with enough to put two more tries on the board to USC’s one in the final minutes of the game. Despite a hard-fought battle, Carolina came out losing 18-15. Even though Carolina had an opportunity to tie the Outlaws with a 3 point penalty kick less than 20 meters out, the team chose to play for the win on a quick-tap. “It was a team decision…we knew we had a chance to beat this team, though we wanted to see, as a team, how it would turn out,”commented Head Coach Mark Morris. “I’m not disappointed in our guys in the slightest bit. We gave it a lot of heart and have a lot to look forward to for the spring.”
COB is now a 501(c)3 non-profit organization - DONATE TODAY!
Visit COB today online
Join COB today on Facebook
Visit Coach Mark Morris's Blog regarding COB Weekend
Alumni Return to Campus - Celebrate 45 Years of Gamecock Rugby
Columbia, SC - The 2012 Palmetto State Champions welcome back the ruggers of yesteryear to celebrate 45 years of Carolina Rugby. The 2012 Carolina Olde Boys Weekend will be held Friday, November 9th through Sunday, November 11th and will include a full range of festivities.
The weekend will begin at 7:00pm on Friday with the 11th annual alumni match followed by a Premier match against the Charleston Outlaws at 8:30pm. On Saturday, the alumni will be hosting a pre-game tailgate beginning at 10:00am at Shuman Owens Supply Co. before heading in to Williams-Brice Stadium to watch the #8 Gamecocks take on the Razorbacks of Arkansas. On Sunday, the weekend will conclude with an 11:00am board meeting inside the Clarion Hotel on Gervais Street in Columbia. For more information on this weekend's activities, we encourage you to visit our COB Weekend page.
COB is now a 501(c)3 non-profit organization - DONATE TODAY!
Visit COB today online
Join COB today on Facebook
Visit Coach Mark Morris's Blog regarding COB Weekend
The weekend will begin at 7:00pm on Friday with the 11th annual alumni match followed by a Premier match against the Charleston Outlaws at 8:30pm. On Saturday, the alumni will be hosting a pre-game tailgate beginning at 10:00am at Shuman Owens Supply Co. before heading in to Williams-Brice Stadium to watch the #8 Gamecocks take on the Razorbacks of Arkansas. On Sunday, the weekend will conclude with an 11:00am board meeting inside the Clarion Hotel on Gervais Street in Columbia. For more information on this weekend's activities, we encourage you to visit our COB Weekend page.
COB is now a 501(c)3 non-profit organization - DONATE TODAY!
Visit COB today online
Join COB today on Facebook
Visit Coach Mark Morris's Blog regarding COB Weekend
Carolina Rugby Teams Up with Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive
On campus, the Carolina Rugby Team is a regular partner with the annual Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive, wherein players assist the American Red Cross in its on-campus operations. The Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive is a longstanding tradition of the Carolina community. As the largest collegiate blood battle in the nation and the largest blood drive in the Southeast, it has been helping area residents for more than 28 years. Since 1985, the Carolina-Clemson Blood Drive has yielded nearly 100,000 units of blood. To participate in this year's event, stop by one of the follow locations to "Give the Gift of Life."
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Monday, November 12th
Russell House Ballroom 10am-7pm Bloodmobiles in front of Thomas Cooper Library 11am-6pm Tuesday, November 13th Russell House Ballroom 10am-7pm Bloodmobiles in front of Thomas Cooper Library & School of Business 11am-6pm Wednesday, November 14th Russell House Ballroom 10am-7pm Bloodmobiles in front of Thomas Cooper Library & Colonial Life Arena 11am-6pm Thursday, November 15th Russell House Ballroom 10am-7pm Bloodmobile in front of Thomas Cooper Library, Greek Village, & Carolina Coliseum 11am-6pm Friday, November 16th Russell House Ballroom 10am-7pm Bloodmobiles in front of Thomas Cooper Library & School of Business 11am-6pm |
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Virginia Tech Unable to Travel; Nov 3rd Matches Cancelled
Virginia Tech will not be able to honor its matches this weekend in Columbia due to complications earlier in the week caused by Hurricane Sandy. The Gamecocks would like to congratulate the Hokies for their winning performance at the ACC 7’s Championship last week and hope to arrange a make-up match next year.
Carolina, Freshmen Reclaim Palmetto Championship Title
Greenville, SC - This past weekend, Carolina Rugby traveled to Furman University and played in four competitive matches to reclaim the Palmetto Championship Title.
The weekend began at 8:45am on Saturday with a Premier match against The Citadel, where the Gamecocks came out of the gate slow and flat after an early morning car ride. Halfway through the first half, the score remained 0-0 as penalties and mistakes affected the flow and continuity of the Gamecock's strategy.
As ball retention and possession continued to change, Carolina began to pull it together and realize their strengths when working cohesively as a single unit. The forwards worked well off of the back line and provided strong support when taking the ball into contact, allowing the Gamecocks to strike first and often. At the half, the score stood at 34-0. “Pulling together was the most important part for our guys to get moving, and it didn’t really click until fifteen minutes into the half. Those first fifteen were painful to watch, and we couldn’t seem to hold onto the ball as [our men] let ball out too often, too early,” said Coach Steve Darnell. At the start of the second half, the team dialed up the intensity and brought on some fresh legs to add a new dynamic to the lineup. Team play and communication was critical, leading to a final score of 57-0.
The Reserves had the second game of the day, playing against Sherman College in a very tight and evenly matched exhibition. In the end, however, Sherman pulled away victorious over the Gamecock, 19-24.
The final match on Saturday was against Citadel’s reserves, and after watching the Premier Side dominate early that morning, the Gamecocks had every intention of repeating that intensity. As sloppy play, penalties, and infractions plagued the flow of the match, Carolina stepped up and pushed through a few scores, while preventing any by The Citadel. The match ended in Carolina's favor, 22-0. “Your progress from the last few weeks in practice is finally starting to show. Isn’t it great when you win like this at a competitive tournament?!,” exclaimed Head Coach Mark Morris to his players.
As the team took the field at noon on Sunday, Carolina came out with a good pace to their game, although turnovers and mistakes continuously held them back. With several opportunities early on, Carolina finally put the first dent in the scoreboard, making the game 5-0 at half on a great team play finished by Nick Winihoff. At the start of the second half, team captain Tim Holkenborg scored a quick try to increase Carolina's lead to 12-0. From this point on, Carolina’s defensive play was strong and ball possession was consistent. Another try in the final minutes of the game by forward Josh Walsh brought the score to 19-0, providing the Gamecocks with another shutout victory and a score differential of 76-0 between the two games counting towards the Championship.
Saturday
Match 1 8:45 am: USC vs. The Citadel (57-0)
Match 2 11:30 am: USC B vs. Sherman College (19-24)
Match 3 5:00 pm: USC B vs. The Citadel B (22-0)
Sunday
Match 1 11:00 am: USC vs. Furman University (19-0)
Looking ahead, the 2012 Palmetto State Champions welcome back the ruggers of yesteryear to celebrate 45 years of Carolina Rugby on Friday, November 9th. The alumni match will be a true test to see if the pride of being a Carolina rugger withstands the experience and longevity many of the COB members have had in their rugby careers. Kickoff is set for 7:00pm on Strom Field with an additional match against the Charleston Outlaws directly afterwards at 8:30pm.
The weekend began at 8:45am on Saturday with a Premier match against The Citadel, where the Gamecocks came out of the gate slow and flat after an early morning car ride. Halfway through the first half, the score remained 0-0 as penalties and mistakes affected the flow and continuity of the Gamecock's strategy.
As ball retention and possession continued to change, Carolina began to pull it together and realize their strengths when working cohesively as a single unit. The forwards worked well off of the back line and provided strong support when taking the ball into contact, allowing the Gamecocks to strike first and often. At the half, the score stood at 34-0. “Pulling together was the most important part for our guys to get moving, and it didn’t really click until fifteen minutes into the half. Those first fifteen were painful to watch, and we couldn’t seem to hold onto the ball as [our men] let ball out too often, too early,” said Coach Steve Darnell. At the start of the second half, the team dialed up the intensity and brought on some fresh legs to add a new dynamic to the lineup. Team play and communication was critical, leading to a final score of 57-0.
The Reserves had the second game of the day, playing against Sherman College in a very tight and evenly matched exhibition. In the end, however, Sherman pulled away victorious over the Gamecock, 19-24.
The final match on Saturday was against Citadel’s reserves, and after watching the Premier Side dominate early that morning, the Gamecocks had every intention of repeating that intensity. As sloppy play, penalties, and infractions plagued the flow of the match, Carolina stepped up and pushed through a few scores, while preventing any by The Citadel. The match ended in Carolina's favor, 22-0. “Your progress from the last few weeks in practice is finally starting to show. Isn’t it great when you win like this at a competitive tournament?!,” exclaimed Head Coach Mark Morris to his players.
As the team took the field at noon on Sunday, Carolina came out with a good pace to their game, although turnovers and mistakes continuously held them back. With several opportunities early on, Carolina finally put the first dent in the scoreboard, making the game 5-0 at half on a great team play finished by Nick Winihoff. At the start of the second half, team captain Tim Holkenborg scored a quick try to increase Carolina's lead to 12-0. From this point on, Carolina’s defensive play was strong and ball possession was consistent. Another try in the final minutes of the game by forward Josh Walsh brought the score to 19-0, providing the Gamecocks with another shutout victory and a score differential of 76-0 between the two games counting towards the Championship.
Saturday
Match 1 8:45 am: USC vs. The Citadel (57-0)
Match 2 11:30 am: USC B vs. Sherman College (19-24)
Match 3 5:00 pm: USC B vs. The Citadel B (22-0)
Sunday
Match 1 11:00 am: USC vs. Furman University (19-0)
Looking ahead, the 2012 Palmetto State Champions welcome back the ruggers of yesteryear to celebrate 45 years of Carolina Rugby on Friday, November 9th. The alumni match will be a true test to see if the pride of being a Carolina rugger withstands the experience and longevity many of the COB members have had in their rugby careers. Kickoff is set for 7:00pm on Strom Field with an additional match against the Charleston Outlaws directly afterwards at 8:30pm.
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Carolina, Freshmen to Defend Palmetto Championship Title
Greenville, SC - The Gamecocks are ready for their final road match of the fall season this Saturday as they are scheduled to compete in the 13th and final Palmetto State Championship on the campus of Furman University in Greenville, SC. The Paladins have hosted the tournament since its inception in 2000 and the Gamecocks are the defending champions after defeating Clemson University 15-13 in last year's showcase.
Beginning in 2013, the Palmetto and North Carolina Unions will be combining resources to form a new Carolinas Union to continue the focus on player development and league organization. South Carolina officially left the Palmetto in 2012 to join the newly created Southeastern Conference, though has since kept informal ties to compete in the Palmetto Cup each fall.
Carolina Rugby will only be bringing one side this year, same as years past, and would like to congratulate freshmen players Bryan Keown, Luke Bolembach, and Jared Magill who will be making their first Premier Side start this weekend, along with freshmen Mike Mahone and Nick Winihoff who will be making their third start respectfully. In addition to these players will be several veterans and team leaders, including team captain and senior scrumhalf Tim Holkenborg and junior winger Matthew Berenato who were named to the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference All-Tournament Team in Montgomery, Alabama two weeks ago.
"This year's team will be a good mixture of young and old players just like years past, though I'm really proud of the progress made by the freshman class," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "Over the last five years, we have seen a dramatic shift in the number of experienced rugby players who enter college with the desire to play all four years. This year we have 24 new players and only 6 had never played prior to coming out. Rewind to 2007 and there were only 2 players in the freshman class that had experience out of the 15 or so that came out. It certainly makes a difference both on and off the field to have the commitment from these players early on and I look forward to watching them compete for what will most likely be the final Palmetto Cup."
(For more information on this year's Freshman Class, please click here)
A champion will be awarded based on points accumulated from the results of each match. South Carolina's schedule is as follows:
Saturday
Match 1 8:45 am: USC vs. The Citadel
Match 2 11:30 am: USC vs. Sherman College
Match 3 5:00 pm: USC vs. The Citadel
Sunday
Match 1 11:00 am: USC vs. Furman University
"A win at Palmetto is exactly the momentum we need to propel us through the last few weeks of our schedule," adds Morris. "With Virginia Tech and Charleston both traveling to Columbia, we would love to see a blanket of garnet along the sidelines to give these guys an extra push to the try line."
Beginning in 2013, the Palmetto and North Carolina Unions will be combining resources to form a new Carolinas Union to continue the focus on player development and league organization. South Carolina officially left the Palmetto in 2012 to join the newly created Southeastern Conference, though has since kept informal ties to compete in the Palmetto Cup each fall.
Carolina Rugby will only be bringing one side this year, same as years past, and would like to congratulate freshmen players Bryan Keown, Luke Bolembach, and Jared Magill who will be making their first Premier Side start this weekend, along with freshmen Mike Mahone and Nick Winihoff who will be making their third start respectfully. In addition to these players will be several veterans and team leaders, including team captain and senior scrumhalf Tim Holkenborg and junior winger Matthew Berenato who were named to the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference All-Tournament Team in Montgomery, Alabama two weeks ago.
"This year's team will be a good mixture of young and old players just like years past, though I'm really proud of the progress made by the freshman class," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "Over the last five years, we have seen a dramatic shift in the number of experienced rugby players who enter college with the desire to play all four years. This year we have 24 new players and only 6 had never played prior to coming out. Rewind to 2007 and there were only 2 players in the freshman class that had experience out of the 15 or so that came out. It certainly makes a difference both on and off the field to have the commitment from these players early on and I look forward to watching them compete for what will most likely be the final Palmetto Cup."
(For more information on this year's Freshman Class, please click here)
A champion will be awarded based on points accumulated from the results of each match. South Carolina's schedule is as follows:
Saturday
Match 1 8:45 am: USC vs. The Citadel
Match 2 11:30 am: USC vs. Sherman College
Match 3 5:00 pm: USC vs. The Citadel
Sunday
Match 1 11:00 am: USC vs. Furman University
"A win at Palmetto is exactly the momentum we need to propel us through the last few weeks of our schedule," adds Morris. "With Virginia Tech and Charleston both traveling to Columbia, we would love to see a blanket of garnet along the sidelines to give these guys an extra push to the try line."
Texas A&M Takes the Crown, Carolina Wins the Plate Division
Montgomery, AL - Texas A&M made a grand entrance into the conference by claiming both the Varsity and Junior Varsity Championships of the 2012 Southeastern Olympic Rugby Championship. The Aggies got past Alabama and Auburn during Sunday playoff competition before upending Georgia in the final. Tennessee defeated Auburn for 3rd. LSU defeated Florida to capture 5th while South Carolina was awarded 9th (plate division) for their victory over Missouri. Mississippi State took the rivalry game against Ole Miss to finish 11th.
Texas A&M also took home the hardware for the JV Championship with a decisive victory over Tennessee in the final. Alabama takes 3rd by defeating Florida and Auburn upended Georgia for 5th.
Twelve of the 14 schools of the SEC were represented at the event with only Vanderbilt (parents weekend) and Arkansas (funding) unable to participate.
South Carolina is proud to recognize team captain and senior scrumhalf Tim Holkenborg, along with junior winger Matthew Berenato for being named to the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference All-Tournament Team based on Saturday's pool play results. The SCRC All-Tournament Team was selected by Renaldo Arroyo, SCRC Performance Director, with input from the event referees. The members of the All-Tournament Team were recognized Saturday at the SCRC banquet at Union Station in downtown Montgomery, Alabama.
"It makes me proud as a head coach to have such talented athletes such as Tim and Matt to help lead our team week in and week out," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "Of course, I'm proud of the performance of all my players this past weekend. We knew it would be difficult competing against Georgia and Tennessee (teams that ultimately finished 2nd and 3rd) in pool play, especially when we were missing five of our starters due to injuries and family commitments, though the guys came back hard on Sunday and dominated both Missouri and Mississippi State to win the plate division."
Looking ahead to next year, Coach Morris was optimistic about the talent available to him. "We had an opportunity to start a lot of freshman this past weekend and many of them will be working their way onto the Varsity side over the next few months. Now that we have developed a solid foundation in rugby sevens we will continue to train through the spring and summer to be ready for next year's event. I am confident that with a full, healthy roster we will be a force to reckon with."
Carolina is off this weekend due to fall break, though will be back in action the weekend of October 27th and 28th when they travel to the campus of Furman University in Greenville, SC to participate in the final Palmetto State 15's Tournament, an event the Gamecocks have won six times since 2000.
For a complete breakdown on this year's results, please visit the SCRC online at www.SoutheasternRugby.org
Texas A&M also took home the hardware for the JV Championship with a decisive victory over Tennessee in the final. Alabama takes 3rd by defeating Florida and Auburn upended Georgia for 5th.
Twelve of the 14 schools of the SEC were represented at the event with only Vanderbilt (parents weekend) and Arkansas (funding) unable to participate.
South Carolina is proud to recognize team captain and senior scrumhalf Tim Holkenborg, along with junior winger Matthew Berenato for being named to the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference All-Tournament Team based on Saturday's pool play results. The SCRC All-Tournament Team was selected by Renaldo Arroyo, SCRC Performance Director, with input from the event referees. The members of the All-Tournament Team were recognized Saturday at the SCRC banquet at Union Station in downtown Montgomery, Alabama.
"It makes me proud as a head coach to have such talented athletes such as Tim and Matt to help lead our team week in and week out," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "Of course, I'm proud of the performance of all my players this past weekend. We knew it would be difficult competing against Georgia and Tennessee (teams that ultimately finished 2nd and 3rd) in pool play, especially when we were missing five of our starters due to injuries and family commitments, though the guys came back hard on Sunday and dominated both Missouri and Mississippi State to win the plate division."
Looking ahead to next year, Coach Morris was optimistic about the talent available to him. "We had an opportunity to start a lot of freshman this past weekend and many of them will be working their way onto the Varsity side over the next few months. Now that we have developed a solid foundation in rugby sevens we will continue to train through the spring and summer to be ready for next year's event. I am confident that with a full, healthy roster we will be a force to reckon with."
Carolina is off this weekend due to fall break, though will be back in action the weekend of October 27th and 28th when they travel to the campus of Furman University in Greenville, SC to participate in the final Palmetto State 15's Tournament, an event the Gamecocks have won six times since 2000.
For a complete breakdown on this year's results, please visit the SCRC online at www.SoutheasternRugby.org
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2012 Final Varsity Rankings
(1) Texas A&M University (2) University of Georgia (3) University Tennessee (4) Auburn University (5) Louisiana State University (6) University of Florida (7) University of Alabama (8) University of Kentucky (9) University of South Carolina (10) University of Missouri (11) Mississippi State University (12) Universtiy of Mississippi (13) University of Arkansas NP (14) Vanderbilt University NP NP = not present |
2012 SCRC All-Conference Team
Lucas Baistrocchi (Florida) Jon Ross (Georgia) Nathan Ring (Tennessee) Mason Howard (Tennessee) Nick Vigder (Tennessee) Matt Johnson (Tennessee) Matt Berenato (South Carolina) Tim Holkenburg (South Carolina) Dentay Daniels (Mississippi State) Chance Taylor (Mississippi) Conor Mills (Texas A&M) Allen Alongi (LSU) |
2012 SCRC Sevens Team
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Tim Holkenborg and Matt Berenato receive SCRC All-Conference Award
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Carolina Rugby Switches to 7's, Takes on the Southeast
Montgomery, AL - The Gamecocks are ready for their second 7's tournament of the fall season this weekend as they travel west to partake in the 3rd annual Southeastern Rugby Olympic Sevens Qualifier scheduled for October 14th & 15th in beautiful Montgomery, Alabama. The Montgomery Yellowhammers and the Montgomery Area Chamber, Convention, and Visitors Bureau will be serving as the event hosts, with matches to take place at the Emory Folmar YMCA Soccer Complex.
“We’re thrilled to be back in Montgomery, following our conference championship earlier this year,” comments SCRC Commissioner James Farrar. “This event is the culmination of months of hard work and dedication by our student athletes and coaches. With each of the fourteen teams participating in various competitive brackets, estimates would suggest nearly 250 players, in addition to coaches, fans, and officials making the trip to Montgomery for the two day event. We are especially excited to be working again with the Montgomery Yellowhammers who helped make our inaugural conference championship a great success.”
The Southeastern Rugby Olympic 7’s Qualifier provides a platform for the fourteen Southeastern Rugby teams to showcase their abilities for possible consideration in the USA Rugby National 7's Championship which is set for the weekend of December 1st in College Station, Texas. In the SCRC’s inaugural season, the conference was highly successful in receiving numerous bids to the USA Rugby 7's event, to include Tennessee, Florida, Arkansas, and Louisiana State.
Pool play will be conducted on Saturday, structured on 2011 results, before transitioning to the Championship/consolation brackets on Sunday. New this year will be the inclusion of a Saturday night dinner banquet provided by the Montgomery Visitors Bureau, where league sponsors, World Rugby Shop and Adidas, will be awarding a set of jerseys and gift bags to the All-Tournament Select Side, followed by a round of guest speakers.
"This tournament is just one more step in the selection process for USA Rugby Olympic athletes,” adds Farrar. “We look forward to another great event in beautiful Montgomery, and we thank our hosts the Montgomery Yellowhammers, the Montgomery Area Chamber, Convention, and Visitors Bureau and the Emory Folmar YMCA Soccer Complex for their gracious hospitality.”
Carolina is set to kick off against Tennessee at 1:20pm and Georgia at 2:40pm on Saturday. Sunday's competition will go from 8:30am to 1:00pm.
# # #
The SCRC is a USA Rugby Men's Collegiate Division I rugby conference featuring teams from the universities in the Southeastern Conference. The league members include teams from the University of Alabama, University of Arkansas, Auburn University, University of Florida, University of Georgia, University of Kentucky, Louisiana State University, University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, University of Missouri, University of South Carolina, University of Tennessee, Texas A&M University, and Vanderbilt University.
For more information, please visit the SCRC online at www.SoutheasternRugby.org
“We’re thrilled to be back in Montgomery, following our conference championship earlier this year,” comments SCRC Commissioner James Farrar. “This event is the culmination of months of hard work and dedication by our student athletes and coaches. With each of the fourteen teams participating in various competitive brackets, estimates would suggest nearly 250 players, in addition to coaches, fans, and officials making the trip to Montgomery for the two day event. We are especially excited to be working again with the Montgomery Yellowhammers who helped make our inaugural conference championship a great success.”
The Southeastern Rugby Olympic 7’s Qualifier provides a platform for the fourteen Southeastern Rugby teams to showcase their abilities for possible consideration in the USA Rugby National 7's Championship which is set for the weekend of December 1st in College Station, Texas. In the SCRC’s inaugural season, the conference was highly successful in receiving numerous bids to the USA Rugby 7's event, to include Tennessee, Florida, Arkansas, and Louisiana State.
Pool play will be conducted on Saturday, structured on 2011 results, before transitioning to the Championship/consolation brackets on Sunday. New this year will be the inclusion of a Saturday night dinner banquet provided by the Montgomery Visitors Bureau, where league sponsors, World Rugby Shop and Adidas, will be awarding a set of jerseys and gift bags to the All-Tournament Select Side, followed by a round of guest speakers.
"This tournament is just one more step in the selection process for USA Rugby Olympic athletes,” adds Farrar. “We look forward to another great event in beautiful Montgomery, and we thank our hosts the Montgomery Yellowhammers, the Montgomery Area Chamber, Convention, and Visitors Bureau and the Emory Folmar YMCA Soccer Complex for their gracious hospitality.”
Carolina is set to kick off against Tennessee at 1:20pm and Georgia at 2:40pm on Saturday. Sunday's competition will go from 8:30am to 1:00pm.
# # #
The SCRC is a USA Rugby Men's Collegiate Division I rugby conference featuring teams from the universities in the Southeastern Conference. The league members include teams from the University of Alabama, University of Arkansas, Auburn University, University of Florida, University of Georgia, University of Kentucky, Louisiana State University, University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, University of Missouri, University of South Carolina, University of Tennessee, Texas A&M University, and Vanderbilt University.
For more information, please visit the SCRC online at www.SoutheasternRugby.org
Carolina Rugby to Host the Pirates of East Carolina
Columbia, SC - Carolina Rugby looks forward to hosting the Pirates of East Carolina this Sunday, October 7th on USC's Greene Street Field. The Premier Side will kickoff at 1:00pm, with the Reserve Side to follow at 2:30pm.
This is the first time these two teams have met in 15's since spring of 2010 when the Gamecocks defeated the Pirates on the road in what was a double header weekend between ECU and UNC Chapel Hill. Last weekend, the Gamecocks tied ECU 7-7 in the final pool play match of the Atlantic Coast Rugby 7's Invitational held in Greensboro, NC. That event was ultimately canceled due to poor field conditions as a result of the weather.
"East Carolina had a solid 7's team last weekend, which complemented our backline play quite well, so we're looking forward to a full 15's match to see how we compare," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "We've had a good week of practice working on some of our downfalls from last week, so we should be ready for anything. Unfortunately it's been a while since our two teams have played each other in 15's so neither one of us really knows what to expect, though if we stick to our game plan and minimize a few of these careless errors that have plagued us the past few weeks we should do well."
The Palmetto Side will be traveling to Conway, SC on Friday, October 5th to take on the Chanticleers of Coastal Carolina for a 7:30pm kickoff. This match is a make-up from last spring when weather conditions placed the field under water for the weekend. While this is the fourth meeting between the Palmetto Side and the Chanticleers, the Gamecocks have yet to be victorious, something they look to change tonight.
"The developmental side should have a tough match tonight at Coastal," comments Coach Morris. "Robert Kegler and his group have always showed up ready to perform, so our freshmen should expect a hard fought match for the full 80 minutes. For the past few years they have had a definite size advantage over us, though, as a player, you can't let that get to you. Getting low on the tackles and solid defensive play will be the keys to this game."
Admission is free to the public and all are encouraged to attend and cheer on the Gamecocks!
This is the first time these two teams have met in 15's since spring of 2010 when the Gamecocks defeated the Pirates on the road in what was a double header weekend between ECU and UNC Chapel Hill. Last weekend, the Gamecocks tied ECU 7-7 in the final pool play match of the Atlantic Coast Rugby 7's Invitational held in Greensboro, NC. That event was ultimately canceled due to poor field conditions as a result of the weather.
"East Carolina had a solid 7's team last weekend, which complemented our backline play quite well, so we're looking forward to a full 15's match to see how we compare," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "We've had a good week of practice working on some of our downfalls from last week, so we should be ready for anything. Unfortunately it's been a while since our two teams have played each other in 15's so neither one of us really knows what to expect, though if we stick to our game plan and minimize a few of these careless errors that have plagued us the past few weeks we should do well."
The Palmetto Side will be traveling to Conway, SC on Friday, October 5th to take on the Chanticleers of Coastal Carolina for a 7:30pm kickoff. This match is a make-up from last spring when weather conditions placed the field under water for the weekend. While this is the fourth meeting between the Palmetto Side and the Chanticleers, the Gamecocks have yet to be victorious, something they look to change tonight.
"The developmental side should have a tough match tonight at Coastal," comments Coach Morris. "Robert Kegler and his group have always showed up ready to perform, so our freshmen should expect a hard fought match for the full 80 minutes. For the past few years they have had a definite size advantage over us, though, as a player, you can't let that get to you. Getting low on the tackles and solid defensive play will be the keys to this game."
Admission is free to the public and all are encouraged to attend and cheer on the Gamecocks!
Carolina Rugby Performs Well in Rain Shortened ACRL 7's
Greensboro, NC - This past weekend, Carolina Rugby traveled to Greensboro, NC to play in the Atlantic Coast Rugby 7s Invitational Series. Macpherson Stadium, home of the semi-pro soccer team, the Carolina Dynamo, took quite a beating on Saturday, causing Sunday’s games to be cancelled due to “putting player safety first” after the surface was “deemed unsafe.” First place was awarded to Navy, second was awarded to NC State, and third place was awarded to Tennessee based on all three teams’ 3-0 records and point differentials.
The Gamecocks played their first match against 26th-ranked Virginia Tech, and as the starting 7 for Carolina took the field, the rain began to pick up a bit. VT scored the only try of the first half, missing the conversion to make the score 0-5 at the break. After a tough defensive effort at the start, South Carolina knew it had to change its pace and lock down on both tackling and ball possession.
The Hokies started the second half with an early, unconverted try, increasing their lead to 0-12. In response, Mike “Rudy” Rudzinsky took one across the try line, setting it down just behind the left post. Peter Murray successfully converted to make it a 7-12 match. To follow up, Tim Holkenborg scored with a great heads-up steal on a VT 5-meter scrum, picking up the ball on Tech’s side of the scrum and diving across for the try. With the unsuccessful conversion kick, the official blew the final whistle, awarding both teams with a 12-12 tie for their first match of the day.
Next, the Gamecocks took on Navy, who is known nationally as a very strong and fit program, especially due to their recent CRC performance and their national ranking of 18th. Carolina did not have much success in the beginning of the first half as the Midshipmen took three of their own kickoffs and made an offensive attack in what should have been Carolina ball. Down 19 points early, the Gamecocks scored a try just before the half on a beautiful team play by Peter Murray, Brook Driver, and Tim Holkenborg, making the score 5-19 at the half.
South Carolina played well in the second half, though were unable to make any gains as they conceded 12 more points to the Midshipmen, ending the match in a 5-31 loss.
In the third and final game of the afternoon, the Gamecocks took on East Carolina in what was a very even match up. As South Carolina struggled to maintain possession in the wet conditions, ECU struck first, making it a 0-7 game early in the second half. At the ten minute mark, South Carolina was finally able to take advantage of multiple opportunities as Rob Davila found the gap and took it to the posts. As Murray made the kick, tying the game at 7-7, South Carolina continued to use its opportunities to drive the ball back down the field, though unfortunately time ran out. The match ended in a 7-7 tie, leaving the Gamecocks 0-1-2 on the day.
As was stated earlier, the second day of the tournament was cancelled due to drastic wear-and-tear after 18 games on the waterlogged pitch.
Carolina Rugby will be back home this weekend as they are set to host the Pirates of East Carolina this Sunday at 1 PM with a reserve match to follow. The location has not yet been announced. The Palmetto side will be on the road playing Coastal Carolina on Friday at 7 PM in Conway, SC in what will be Coastal's first night match on their new pitch. Admission is free to the public and all are encouraged to attend and cheer on the Garnet & Black this weekend!
The Gamecocks played their first match against 26th-ranked Virginia Tech, and as the starting 7 for Carolina took the field, the rain began to pick up a bit. VT scored the only try of the first half, missing the conversion to make the score 0-5 at the break. After a tough defensive effort at the start, South Carolina knew it had to change its pace and lock down on both tackling and ball possession.
The Hokies started the second half with an early, unconverted try, increasing their lead to 0-12. In response, Mike “Rudy” Rudzinsky took one across the try line, setting it down just behind the left post. Peter Murray successfully converted to make it a 7-12 match. To follow up, Tim Holkenborg scored with a great heads-up steal on a VT 5-meter scrum, picking up the ball on Tech’s side of the scrum and diving across for the try. With the unsuccessful conversion kick, the official blew the final whistle, awarding both teams with a 12-12 tie for their first match of the day.
Next, the Gamecocks took on Navy, who is known nationally as a very strong and fit program, especially due to their recent CRC performance and their national ranking of 18th. Carolina did not have much success in the beginning of the first half as the Midshipmen took three of their own kickoffs and made an offensive attack in what should have been Carolina ball. Down 19 points early, the Gamecocks scored a try just before the half on a beautiful team play by Peter Murray, Brook Driver, and Tim Holkenborg, making the score 5-19 at the half.
South Carolina played well in the second half, though were unable to make any gains as they conceded 12 more points to the Midshipmen, ending the match in a 5-31 loss.
In the third and final game of the afternoon, the Gamecocks took on East Carolina in what was a very even match up. As South Carolina struggled to maintain possession in the wet conditions, ECU struck first, making it a 0-7 game early in the second half. At the ten minute mark, South Carolina was finally able to take advantage of multiple opportunities as Rob Davila found the gap and took it to the posts. As Murray made the kick, tying the game at 7-7, South Carolina continued to use its opportunities to drive the ball back down the field, though unfortunately time ran out. The match ended in a 7-7 tie, leaving the Gamecocks 0-1-2 on the day.
As was stated earlier, the second day of the tournament was cancelled due to drastic wear-and-tear after 18 games on the waterlogged pitch.
Carolina Rugby will be back home this weekend as they are set to host the Pirates of East Carolina this Sunday at 1 PM with a reserve match to follow. The location has not yet been announced. The Palmetto side will be on the road playing Coastal Carolina on Friday at 7 PM in Conway, SC in what will be Coastal's first night match on their new pitch. Admission is free to the public and all are encouraged to attend and cheer on the Garnet & Black this weekend!
Saturday's MatchesGame 1 – South Carolina vs. Virginia Tech – T,12-12
Try – 9:15 – Mike Rudzinsky Con – 9:15 – Peter Murray Try – 13:45 – Tim Holkenborg Game 2 – South Carolina vs. Navy – L, 5-31 Try – 7:00 – Peter Murray Game 3 – South Carolina vs. East Carolina – T, 7-7 Try – 10:00 – Rob Davila Con – 10:00 – Peter Murray |
USC 7's RosterRJ Bell
Matt Beranato Luke Bolembach Dana Corcoran Alex Darrah Rob Davila Brook Driver Zach Gorman Tim Holkenborg Brian Keown Mike Mahon Colin McKeon Peter Murray Mike Rudzinsky |
Carolina Rugby Switches to 7's, Takes on the Atlantic Coast
Greensboro, NC - The Gamecocks are ready for their second road trip of the fall season this weekend as they travel north to partake in the Atlantic Coast Rugby 7's Invitational. This will be the first 7's event of the fall season for the Gamecocks and should serve as a testing ground for the Southeastern Rugby 7's Tournament set to take place in two weeks.
Carolina will be joined by Navy, Virginia Tech, and East Carolina for the Saturday pool play, with all twelve teams advancing to Sunday's competition. Other teams making the trip to Greensboro, NC include Clemson, Wake Forest, North Carolina, and fellow SEC opponent, the Tennessee Volunteers.
"It would be nice to have an SEC sweep this weekend, though that'll be a tough order considering the competition," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "Virginia Tech won the Blacksburg tournament two weeks ago and Navy was a top tier team in this year's CRC event, so you can count on both of those teams to be stiff competition. We've certainly devoted more time and energy to sevens this year than we ever have before, so it's events like this that tells us where we're at and get us ready for SEC in October."
Carolina is set to kick off against Virginia Tech at 11:50am, Navy at 1:40pm, and East Carolina at 4:14pm, the final match of the afternoon. Sunday's competition will go from 10:00am to 4:40pm and will include four local high school matches.
For those staying in town this weekend, the Palmetto Side will be hosting USC Aiken for a 1:00pm kickoff on Strom Field. This will be the second meeting between these two teams and USC Columbia leads 1-0. Admission is free to the public and all are encouraged to attend and cheer on the next generation of USC ruggers!
Carolina will be joined by Navy, Virginia Tech, and East Carolina for the Saturday pool play, with all twelve teams advancing to Sunday's competition. Other teams making the trip to Greensboro, NC include Clemson, Wake Forest, North Carolina, and fellow SEC opponent, the Tennessee Volunteers.
"It would be nice to have an SEC sweep this weekend, though that'll be a tough order considering the competition," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "Virginia Tech won the Blacksburg tournament two weeks ago and Navy was a top tier team in this year's CRC event, so you can count on both of those teams to be stiff competition. We've certainly devoted more time and energy to sevens this year than we ever have before, so it's events like this that tells us where we're at and get us ready for SEC in October."
Carolina is set to kick off against Virginia Tech at 11:50am, Navy at 1:40pm, and East Carolina at 4:14pm, the final match of the afternoon. Sunday's competition will go from 10:00am to 4:40pm and will include four local high school matches.
For those staying in town this weekend, the Palmetto Side will be hosting USC Aiken for a 1:00pm kickoff on Strom Field. This will be the second meeting between these two teams and USC Columbia leads 1-0. Admission is free to the public and all are encouraged to attend and cheer on the next generation of USC ruggers!
Carolina Rugby Splits Victories with the Wolfpack
Raleigh, NC - This past Sunday, Carolina Rugby took on North Carolina State at the Raleigh-Cary Jewish Community Center. The weather was comfortable and the sun was the only thing in the sky, and with kickoff set for 1 PM, the team could not have asked for a better day.
After a first week victory for the Gamecocks, the team trained hard throughout the week to work on what was needed to do in order to come out victorious over the Wolfpack, a very well put-together side. As the Gamecocks ran downhill the first half, the players came out with all gears grinding, scoring an early try off of an impressive tackle that then caused a turnover inside the NC State 22 meter line, setting up the Gamecocks with an easy opportunity to score. Carolina struggled to keep themselves out of trouble, though, as penalties were called on multiple infringements, leading to an NC State penalty kick, making it a 5-3 game. The Gamecocks took it to heart and scored another quick try to answer the Wolfpack’s points, making it 10-3. NC State then looked to their forwards by setting up multiple pick-and-go’s as well as pod formations, leading to one more try before the half by NC State.
With Carolina running uphill in the second half, there were several opportunities for both teams to score, but infringements and a Carolina yellow card plagued those chances, creating a hard fought battle out on the pitch. In the end, NC State had the momentum running downfield, and with Carolina trying to maintain their lead, penalties were the last thing the boys needed as they struggled to fight for possession of the ball. NC State scored two tries in the final minutes, and after a well-played game by both sides, the Wolfpack came out on top, winning 20-10.
Next, the reserve side took the field, running uphill first half, using the first few phases to synchronize their attack. NC State scored early, making the conversion as well, though it only gave Carolina a reason to start pressing and attacking at a faster and more dangerous pace.
The Gamecocks scored three tries, thanks to the efforts of team play with great finishes by Brian Keown, Christian Black, and Robert Sandler. However, NC State wasn’t going to stop pushing as they made a penalty kick just before whistle, making the score 21-10 at the half.
Both teams came out with intensity in the second half as NC State scored a quick try and conversion to make the score 21-17. At that point, the Gamecocks made it clear that they were determined to win this match as they scored four unanswered, team-effort tries, touched down by Dana Corcoran, Thomas Barrie, Jared Magill, and Sandler. The reserves were lucky to have a great boot in Brian Keown to convert 6 of 7 on them conversions. One highlight of the reserve game just happens to be about a player who is leaving the US to go back home to London: Robert Sandler received the kickoff just after a Carolina score and had the determination that no one was going to bring him down, or even touch him for that matter. Displaying great running skills, he dove in for the try to end his final game in the US, making the score 47-17 to end the match.
The Premier Side Man of the Match award goes to Mike Mahon for his stellar defense and a few break away runs thoughout the day. On the Reserve side, Brian Keown received the nod as he accumulated 23 of the team’s 47 points on the day.
Coming up next weekend, the Gamecocks are sending 15 players on a 7's side to Greensboro, NC for the Atlantic Coast 7s Tournament, as the Palmetto Side is set to take on USC-Aiken at Strom Field for a 1 PM kickoff. Details to follow later this week.
After a first week victory for the Gamecocks, the team trained hard throughout the week to work on what was needed to do in order to come out victorious over the Wolfpack, a very well put-together side. As the Gamecocks ran downhill the first half, the players came out with all gears grinding, scoring an early try off of an impressive tackle that then caused a turnover inside the NC State 22 meter line, setting up the Gamecocks with an easy opportunity to score. Carolina struggled to keep themselves out of trouble, though, as penalties were called on multiple infringements, leading to an NC State penalty kick, making it a 5-3 game. The Gamecocks took it to heart and scored another quick try to answer the Wolfpack’s points, making it 10-3. NC State then looked to their forwards by setting up multiple pick-and-go’s as well as pod formations, leading to one more try before the half by NC State.
With Carolina running uphill in the second half, there were several opportunities for both teams to score, but infringements and a Carolina yellow card plagued those chances, creating a hard fought battle out on the pitch. In the end, NC State had the momentum running downfield, and with Carolina trying to maintain their lead, penalties were the last thing the boys needed as they struggled to fight for possession of the ball. NC State scored two tries in the final minutes, and after a well-played game by both sides, the Wolfpack came out on top, winning 20-10.
Next, the reserve side took the field, running uphill first half, using the first few phases to synchronize their attack. NC State scored early, making the conversion as well, though it only gave Carolina a reason to start pressing and attacking at a faster and more dangerous pace.
The Gamecocks scored three tries, thanks to the efforts of team play with great finishes by Brian Keown, Christian Black, and Robert Sandler. However, NC State wasn’t going to stop pushing as they made a penalty kick just before whistle, making the score 21-10 at the half.
Both teams came out with intensity in the second half as NC State scored a quick try and conversion to make the score 21-17. At that point, the Gamecocks made it clear that they were determined to win this match as they scored four unanswered, team-effort tries, touched down by Dana Corcoran, Thomas Barrie, Jared Magill, and Sandler. The reserves were lucky to have a great boot in Brian Keown to convert 6 of 7 on them conversions. One highlight of the reserve game just happens to be about a player who is leaving the US to go back home to London: Robert Sandler received the kickoff just after a Carolina score and had the determination that no one was going to bring him down, or even touch him for that matter. Displaying great running skills, he dove in for the try to end his final game in the US, making the score 47-17 to end the match.
The Premier Side Man of the Match award goes to Mike Mahon for his stellar defense and a few break away runs thoughout the day. On the Reserve side, Brian Keown received the nod as he accumulated 23 of the team’s 47 points on the day.
Coming up next weekend, the Gamecocks are sending 15 players on a 7's side to Greensboro, NC for the Atlantic Coast 7s Tournament, as the Palmetto Side is set to take on USC-Aiken at Strom Field for a 1 PM kickoff. Details to follow later this week.
Premier Match Roster
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Reserve Match Roster
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Premier Scoring Report
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Reserve Scoring Report
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Carolina Rugby Travels to Raleigh to Take on the Wolfpack
Raleigh, NC - The Gamecocks are ready for their first road match of the fall season this Sunday as they are scheduled to play the Wolfpack of North Carolina State. This will be NC State’s first home match of the season following a 2nd place showing at the ACRL's Blacksburg 7's Tournament last weekend.
The last time these two teams met, South Carolina came away victorious, 38-7, a showing the Gamecocks would like to repeat before taking a break for 7's.
"State has made a name for themselves the past few seasons with their backline play, which has complimented their 7's game quite nicely," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "If you come out sluggish they'll take advantage of it and run down hill on you all day. We'll have to be ready from the start and hopefully the past few weeks of scrimmaging has prepared us."
Both matches will take place off campus at the Raleigh-Cary Jewish Community Center, with the Premier Side kickoff set for 1:00pm and the Reserve Side set to follow at 2:30pm.
Also, do not forget to look back here on Monday for a full post-match report.
The last time these two teams met, South Carolina came away victorious, 38-7, a showing the Gamecocks would like to repeat before taking a break for 7's.
"State has made a name for themselves the past few seasons with their backline play, which has complimented their 7's game quite nicely," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "If you come out sluggish they'll take advantage of it and run down hill on you all day. We'll have to be ready from the start and hopefully the past few weeks of scrimmaging has prepared us."
Both matches will take place off campus at the Raleigh-Cary Jewish Community Center, with the Premier Side kickoff set for 1:00pm and the Reserve Side set to follow at 2:30pm.
Also, do not forget to look back here on Monday for a full post-match report.
Carolina Rugby Opens Fall Season, Splits Victories with Olde Grey
Columbia, SC - The Men’s Rugby Team at the University of South Carolina hosted Columbia Olde Grey this weekend in their first exhibition of the fall season. Olde Grey showed up deep in numbers and ready to take on the Gamecocks as they also shook hands and chatted with the friends before kickoff.
With a 9:30 AM start and a few players still waking up, the game started off sloppy with whistles being blown on both sides of the ball; this didn't stop the Gamecocks from taking an early 6-0 lead on two penalty kicks thanks to the boot of Team Captain Tim Holkenborg. Handling errors continued to plague the Gamecocks causing a string of penalties and turnovers that kept them on defense for a majority of the first half. On several occasions, Olde Grey had managed to break into the 22m territory, though strong defense and counter rucking prevented them from capitalizing on the field advantage.
The second half was a completely different story, as Carolina came out strong, scoring three tries and converting each kick as well. Tries scored by Holkenborg, Josh Walsh, and Peter Murray gave Carolina a commanding lead, for a total of 27 points, shutting out Olde Grey on the day.
As the reserves lined the field for kickoff in the heat of the day, it was evident the experience on the Olde Grey side was a bit too much for the young Carolina side. With it being the first match for several of the Carolina players, it took time for the team to begin to work together in unison. As in the premier match, penalties and turnovers plagued the first half, allowing Olde Grey critical field advantage inside the 22m territory. The Gamecocks were able to pick up the pace as the first half came to a close, stopping Olde Grey on the goal line for several well-played phases, however, it was not enough to prevent an Olde Grey try that ended the first half, giving them a 7-0 lead.
Following a round of substitutions at the start of the second half, the Palmetto players were given an opportunity to showcase their abilities to the coaching staff. The Gamecocks were able to forge several long drives while maintaining possession of the ball, though could not seem to capitalize on the golden opportunities. Ultimately, Olde Grey continued to add to their lead up until the final whistle, ending the match 24-0 in their favor.
"A congratulations is in place for the new and old team members on a great first game as we move forward and prepare to play NC State next weekend," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "The Premier Side did a great job on regrouping after the first half and moving the ball forward in the backline. The Reserve Side put in a solid effort, though we'll need to work on our defense at the ruck and enhancing our attack if we hope to be ready for NC State. For the Palmetto Side, overall I'm happy with their efforts and congratulate many of them for their first collegiate start today."
Next up for the Gamecocks is the Wolfpack of North Carolina State this Sunday, September 23rd in Raleigh, NC. The premier Side will kick off at 1 PM while the Reserve Side will follow up directly afterwards with a shot at their first victory of the fall season.
With a 9:30 AM start and a few players still waking up, the game started off sloppy with whistles being blown on both sides of the ball; this didn't stop the Gamecocks from taking an early 6-0 lead on two penalty kicks thanks to the boot of Team Captain Tim Holkenborg. Handling errors continued to plague the Gamecocks causing a string of penalties and turnovers that kept them on defense for a majority of the first half. On several occasions, Olde Grey had managed to break into the 22m territory, though strong defense and counter rucking prevented them from capitalizing on the field advantage.
The second half was a completely different story, as Carolina came out strong, scoring three tries and converting each kick as well. Tries scored by Holkenborg, Josh Walsh, and Peter Murray gave Carolina a commanding lead, for a total of 27 points, shutting out Olde Grey on the day.
As the reserves lined the field for kickoff in the heat of the day, it was evident the experience on the Olde Grey side was a bit too much for the young Carolina side. With it being the first match for several of the Carolina players, it took time for the team to begin to work together in unison. As in the premier match, penalties and turnovers plagued the first half, allowing Olde Grey critical field advantage inside the 22m territory. The Gamecocks were able to pick up the pace as the first half came to a close, stopping Olde Grey on the goal line for several well-played phases, however, it was not enough to prevent an Olde Grey try that ended the first half, giving them a 7-0 lead.
Following a round of substitutions at the start of the second half, the Palmetto players were given an opportunity to showcase their abilities to the coaching staff. The Gamecocks were able to forge several long drives while maintaining possession of the ball, though could not seem to capitalize on the golden opportunities. Ultimately, Olde Grey continued to add to their lead up until the final whistle, ending the match 24-0 in their favor.
"A congratulations is in place for the new and old team members on a great first game as we move forward and prepare to play NC State next weekend," comments Head Coach Mark Morris. "The Premier Side did a great job on regrouping after the first half and moving the ball forward in the backline. The Reserve Side put in a solid effort, though we'll need to work on our defense at the ruck and enhancing our attack if we hope to be ready for NC State. For the Palmetto Side, overall I'm happy with their efforts and congratulate many of them for their first collegiate start today."
Next up for the Gamecocks is the Wolfpack of North Carolina State this Sunday, September 23rd in Raleigh, NC. The premier Side will kick off at 1 PM while the Reserve Side will follow up directly afterwards with a shot at their first victory of the fall season.
Premier Match Roster
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Reserve Match Roster
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Premier Scoring Report
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Reserve Scoring Report
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Carolina Rugby Kicks Off the Season Against Columbia Olde Grey
Columbia, SC - Carolina Rugby looks forward to hosting Columbia Olde Grey this Sunday, September 16th on USC's Strom Field. The Premier Side will kickoff at 9:30am, with the Reserve Side to follow at 11:00am.
This should be a great match-up, so bring your friends and family and join us for an exciting morning of Gamecock Rugby!
Also, do not forget to look back here on Monday for a full post-match report.
This should be a great match-up, so bring your friends and family and join us for an exciting morning of Gamecock Rugby!
Also, do not forget to look back here on Monday for a full post-match report.
Store Now Open! Presale Dates Sept 10th - Sept 30th! Order Now!
Players Return to Campus - Celebrate 45 Years of Gamecock Rugby
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Fall 2012 Practice Schedule:
Tues. & Thurs. 7:00-9:00 PM Beginning Thursday, August 23rd STWFC Rugby Field 1000 Blossom St, Columbia, SC 29208 Strength & Conditioning: Mon. & Wed. 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 9:00 PM STWFC Strength & Condi. Room 1000 Blossom St, Columbia, SC 29208 Player Information: Forms & What You Need to Know Team members are expected to be booted and ready to warm-up 15 minutes early. Please show up to practice with all necessary forms filled out and ready, if possible. Incoming players, please contact Team Administrator James Farrar |
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