SRRFC Board of Directors
Since its official formation in July 2024, the Severn River Rugby Board of Directors has been focusing on understanding how best to operate within the club’s existing structure. Our primary focus has been on the eight key charters we’ve identified as critical to the club’s growth and success. Here’s an update on the progress in each area:
1. Infrastructure Charter
Chair: Henry Posko
Progress: This charter has focused on both short-term and long-term capital goals. With the expansion of the club to four active teams, there’s a heightened emphasis on infrastructure needs. The Board recently approved a dual strategy:
Work with the Legion to improve facilities including the provision of additional field lighting. The Committee has been working closely with alumni member (and lobbyist) Mike Johansen and the Legion leadership to seek State funding. Senator Gile (District 33) recently introduced a Legislative Bond Initiative ($75,000) to support that effort.
Focus on a longer term (5-7 years) facilities and field vision.
Next Steps: The club and Legion will provide testimony and support for our capital project throughout the legislative session. We will continue seek support from all stakeholders, including the Anne Arundel delegation to the General Assembly.
2. Fundraising Charter
Chair: Lily Soliday
Progress: This charter has faced challenges due to the Ravens' shift in hospitality partners from Aramark to Levy. Despite these obstacles, the club exceeded its fundraising goals, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
Next Steps: Build on this momentum to explore additional revenue opportunities and further refine fundraising strategies.
3. Finance Charter
Chair: Katie Turner (Board Treasurer)
Progress: The Finance Charter, led by BoD Treasurer Katie Turner, has made great strides in creating a solid financial foundation for the club’s future. The collaboration with Operations Board Treasurer Steve Long has helped the charter better understand its role in advancing the club’s financial stability.
Next Steps: Continue to develop long-term financial strategies and ensure the club’s sustainability.
4. Recruitment Charter
Chair: Erik Dronberger
Progress: The Recruitment Charter has been working closely with both the Honey Badgers and Men’s team boards to enhance player recruitment efforts. New initiatives, such as yard signs, are being rolled out to help build visibility and attract new players.
Next Steps: Continue to explore innovative recruitment strategies for both players and alumni participation.
5. Youth Development Charter
Chair: Ruth Seerey
Progress: Led by Ruth Seerey, this charter aims to strengthen the club's presence in youth rugby through a comprehensive five-point development plan. The initiative focuses on collaboration with SRRFC members—Kerry Froh, Catherine Giordano, Andy Naylor, Jeff Donselar, and Jenn Fenzel—who currently coach local youth programs. Immediate goals include further expanding the club's involvement in established youth programs within the community and create an educational fact sheet regarding safety for all ages.
Next Steps: We are moving forward with a clear focus on expanding youth rugby involvement. These include building a presence at Maryland Youth Rugby Tournaments to enhance visibility and foster connections with other local programs, hosting more youth clinics to provide additional opportunities for skill development and increase youth engagement, and creating a credit program with SRRFC that will incentivize members to support local youth programs, fostering mentorship and a strong sense of community. Additionally, the charter aims to establish a scholarship fund to make rugby more accessible by providing financial support to youth players in need. Lastly, the charter looks to include girls' and boys' U19 teams in SRRFC's roster down the road, promoting inclusivity and offering a continued pathway for youth players. These steps are designed to strengthen the club’s presence in the local youth rugby scene and create lasting, sustainable growth.
6. Alumni Charter
Chair: Rachel Priddy
Progress: The Alumni Charter has been planning events to engage and maintain connections with former members of SRRFC. This includes Alumni weekend activities, and alumni dinners and happy hours.
Next Steps: Continue developing alumni events and initiatives to keep former players involved in the life of the club and to build the membership numbers to the SRRFC Alumni Association. Upcoming events include a trip to Chicago in November 2025 for the Ireland vs. New Zealand rugby match at Soldier Field. We are waiting on an exact date confirmation.
7. Systems and Structure Charter
Chair: Charlee Bryan
Progress: This charter has been focused on identifying and mitigating potential legal, player welfare, public relations, and digital risks. The committee is combining what were previously unwritten expectations into a Code of Conduct and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Partnered with Ryan Kivitz and Operations to secure an EMT at every home match this past fall and will continue that effort moving forward.
Next Steps: The vision for this group includes partnering with the active boards for the development of a Coaching and Leadership Succession Plan.
8. Board of Directors Development Charter
Chair: Milton Greenstreet
Progress: The BoD Development Charter, led by Milton Greenstreet, has been working to identify and nurture future leaders for the Board of Directors.
Next Steps: Continue identifying and mentoring potential future Board members to ensure strong leadership for SRRFC in the years to come.
Reflection & Next Steps:
The Severn River Rugby Board of Directors has made significant progress in each of these areas, with each charter demonstrating leadership and commitment to the club’s success. As we move forward, it's essential to maintain coordination between the charters, ensuring that infrastructure development, fundraising, and recruitment strategies align to foster the club's continued growth.
If you’d like to discuss further ideas or refine any of these strategies, feel free to reach out! bodsrrfc@gmail.com
Annual Banquet and HOF Induction
Severn River Rugby Club’s annual banquet on February 1st was nothing short of spectacular, with a Met Gala: Fairytale theme that transformed the Byzantium in Annapolis into a stunning venue. The evening was a reflection of the dedication and creativity of social chairs Ava Dennis and Mike Divver, whose efforts brought the entire event to life.
The evening’s standout moments included honoring a new group of players, with both the men's and Honey Badger teams receiving well-deserved recognition. Among the notable moments, Tommy Sitar claimed his long-awaited derby for Unsung Hero, while Sarah ‘Pat’ Patterson proudly showed off her Steel Tits ring.
This year, the prestigious YAD award was shared by two deserving winners: Ava Dennis and Katie Marshall. Mike Posko kept everyone entertained with classic YAD stories, adding to the night’s charm.
The SRRFC Hall of Fame inducted two more legends: Mike Bertoni and Jennifer Fenzel, cementing their place in the club’s rich history.
The celebration continued late into the night as the club headed to downtown Annapolis for more drinks and fun. With so many generations of Severn River Rugby history in one spot, it was the perfect way to keep the energy going.
As the NFL Pro Bowl fades into the background, Severn River Rugby’s annual banquet continues to grow in significance, drawing players—current, former, and legendary—from all over. With the club’s 50th anniversary on the horizon, expectations are high for next year’s celebration, and it promises to be another unforgettable event, filled with camaraderie, excellence, and new memories.
Award Summary:
Honey Badger Awards:
Most Valuable Back D2- Tina Schafer
Most Valuable Forward D2- Kale Carter
Most Valuable Back D3- Kerry Froh
Most Valuable Forward D3- Aislyn Hayman
Steel Tits- Sarah ‘Pat’ Patterson
Rookie of the Year- Justine ‘Jay’ Federe
Unsung Hero- Maria 'The Queen’ Russo
Most Improved- Marisa Hernandez
MVP- Cheryl Johnson
Men’s Awards:
Most Valuable Back D3- Erik ‘Punchy’ Dronberger
Most Valuable Forward D3- John Wheelton
Most Valuable Back D4 – Justin Toth
Most Valuable Forward D4 – Austin ‘Cheddar’ Eckert
Rookie of the Year- Austin Bulger
Unsung Hero- Tommy Sitar
YAD:
Ava Dennis and Katie Marshall
Hall of Fame Class of 2024-2025:
Mike Bertoni
Jenn Fenzel
Most Valuable Back D2- Tina Schafer
Most Valuable Forward D2- Kale Carter
Most Valuable Back D3- Kerry Froh
Most Valuable Forward D3- Aislyn Hayman
Steel Tits- Sarah ‘Pat’ Patterson
Rookie of the Year- Justine ‘Jay’ Federe
Unsung Hero- Maria 'The Queen’ Russo
Most Improved- Marisa Hernandez
MVP- Cheryl Johnson
Most Valuable Back D3- Erik ‘Punchy’ Dronberger
Most Valuable Forward D3- John Wheelton
Most Valuable Back D4- Justin Toth
Most Valuable Forward D4- Austin ‘Cheddar’ Eckert
Rookie of the Year- Austin Bulger
Unsung Hero- Tommy Sitar
YAD- Ava Dennis and Katie Marshall
Hall of Fame- Mike Bertoni
Hall of Fame- Jenn Fenzel
The Honey Badgers Head into Spring on a Mission
Expect hard work, dedication, and a commitment to taking their game to the next level. This season, the Honey Badgers are all in—focusing on fitness, improving skills, and, most importantly, supporting each other every step of the way. The energy is high, and the Badgers are ready to bring the heat! Let’s make this spring one to remember.
Dolla Harmse, D2 Backs Coach
It was a tough start to the season, but we ended the fall on an exciting upward curve. However, as we all know, the real tests are still ahead. I know this spring run will be tougher than last year, but honestly, that kind of excites me. Can we build on our form from St. Louis? Will the fringe players step up when needed? Can the experienced legs keep pushing through? Will the ball bounce our way at the right moments? Will we get that pushover try we’re always chasing? How many first-phase tries will we see? The questions are all there, and it’s up to us to find the answers.
Louis De Bruin, D2 Forwards Coach
Working with a team that is willing to give everything to achieve their goals is an incredible experience. While I’m slightly disappointed that we didn’t have a clear view of everyone’s individual goals or the progress toward them, right now, there should be one clear goal: Get as fit as possible. If we’re fitter than the opposition, we can get up quicker, get to rucks faster, make more tackles, run harder, and ultimately enjoy the game more.
I want to give a shoutout to all the players who show up for practice, never complain, and are always willing to help others. "I cannot be who I am if I don’t have people around me who motivate me and set an example I want to follow." Everyone plays an important role, no matter their experience, age, or knowledge of rugby. Just showing up for your team makes a huge difference.
So, how are we going to meet our goals? It starts by answering the question: “Why am I here playing this sport?” Rugby is a team sport, and everyone has a role to play. If I don’t play my role, I’m not just letting myself down; I’m letting my team down too. Anyone who’s been part of a losing game knows the feeling of “I could’ve done more” or “I wish I did more.” Let’s make sure we don’t have any of those regrets. Let’s play for each other and be the best we can be—for ourselves and for the team.
Katie Turner, D3 Forwards Coach
I’m really excited to see D3 continue to grow and take everything we learned in the fall to the next level. In just our second year with two squads, balancing the focus on both teams has been a challenge, but it’s been absolutely worth it. It’s allowing us to grow the game and build a strong foundation for the Honey Badgers for seasons to come.
During the offseason, the Badgers came together and made a collective commitment to push for another run at nationals. To make that happen, we’ve added more matches to the spring schedule, stepped up the intensity at practice, and each individual player has committed to improving their fitness. Just like with Arizona, Florida, and St. Louis, this nationals run will require not just full support from the Badgers but from the entire club. When we all come together, that’s when the magic of rugby and team sports truly happens.
I’m also really excited about the energy our new Badgers have brought to the team. We’ve got a great mix of players who are new to rugby and others who are new to Severn, and that energy has been a total game changer compared to last season. We’re gearing up for the spring, and I know the team is pumped, but it’ll be even easier to get behind us when everyone knows just a bit more about what’s coming. Let’s keep pushing, Badgers!
Johnethen Dumond, D3 Backs Coach
You’re not always going to please everyone, but at the end of the day, it’s not about pleasing people—it’s about winning rugby games. The positives far outweigh the negatives, and I wouldn’t be the person I am today without the experiences I’ve had from playing rugby.
The friendships, the bonds, and the life lessons I’ve learned—traveling the country and everything in between—have all shaped me. It makes me happy to now pass on that knowledge and teach others the game I love. I want to give a big shoutout to all the rugby players I’ve met and coached. Every single one of them has put their body on the line for their teams, and I’m proud of each and every one. They’re one big family to me.
Katie Marshall, Honey Badgers Backs Captain
The Badgers are on a mission—and this year, we’re not stopping until we break the curse. For years, the Honey Badgers have fought hard, always coming up just short of our goals. But this time, we’re determined to change that. With the support of all the Badgers who came before us, we’re ready to fight harder than ever.
We welcome all alumni to join us at practice, get a run in, and help push the newer players while challenging the more seasoned ones. Your presence means so much to us. We invite all alumni to come to our matches and share stories—your experiences fuel us to honor the legacy you’ve built and the crest we wear with pride.
A huge shoutout to our coaches for returning to lead us and being open to feedback. And a big thank you to our board members, who handle all the behind-the-scenes work so we can focus on one thing: kicking ass and taking names.
Shoutout to all of our rookies, who have shown up consistently and are eager to learn the Honey Badger way. We’re meeting our goals by focusing on fitness this winter season, pushing ourselves and our bodies to the limit. Many of us are taking on the 75 Hard, Medium, and Soft challenges—working out at least 45 minutes a day and watching at least 20 minutes of rugby or one match a week. We’re challenging ourselves to be better, and we need all the support we can get to reach our goals.
This spring, we’re pushing each other to new heights. Severn River Rugby CLUB will persevere, and we will thrive in 2025. Let’s get it, Badgers!
SRRFC Hall of Fame
SRRFC Hall of Fame Class of 2024-2025:
Michael Joseph Bertoni
Mike Bertoni dedicated 17 years to rugby, with 9 of those years playing, leading, and contributing to Severn River Rugby. His commitment and passion for the sport left a lasting impact both on and off the field.
As a leader, Mike served as Captain for 7 consecutive years (from the Dunbar era until 2015), a testament to the trust and respect he earned from his teammates. Concurrently, he held the position of Club President from 2014–2015, demonstrating his ability to balance leadership on the field with administrative duties off it. He also contributed as a Selector and Governor, further emphasizing his commitment to the club’s growth and success.
Under Mike’s captaincy, Severn River consistently contended for the Division 2 South title, missing playoffs only once. His leadership extended to 7s rugby, where Severn River became a formidable presence on the “Open” circuit, winning the MARFU Open title during his tenure.
On the field, Mike was a standout player known for his speed and scoring ability. He recorded multiple 15s seasons averaging over a try per game and twice scored five tries in a single match. His ability to anticipate play and create opportunities for himself and his teammates made him a critical asset. Mike humbly acknowledges his defensive challenges but highlights his knack for being in the right place at the right time to make an impact.
Mike’s contributions earned him several club awards, including Rookie of the Year and Forward of the Year (twice). His leadership also fostered professional development for fellow players, helping bring club members into Aerotek, where many built successful careers.
Beyond accolades and statistics, Mike credits Severn River with shaping his identity and leadership style, both personally and professionally. The relationships and experiences he gained through the club remain a cornerstone of his life. Leaving Severn River when he moved to Arizona was, in his words, “the hardest thing to come to terms with,” underscoring the profound bond he formed with the club and its members.
Mike Bertoni’s time at Severn River Rugby exemplifies the values of commitment, leadership, and camaraderie that define the sport. His contributions as a player, captain, and administrator left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
SRRFC Hall of Fame Class of 2024-2025:
Jennifer Collins Fenzel
Jenn Fenzel has been a dedicated member of the rugby community for over two decades, with 23 years of experience as a player, coach, and administrator. Since joining Severn River Rugby in 2005, she has contributed to the club’s success on and off the field for 18 years.
As a player, Jenn was a member of Severn River’s inaugural Honey Badgers 15s team in the fall of 2006 commuting from Salisbury, Maryland to play for Severn River. She competed in National Tournaments in 2010, 2012, and 2015. She was part of the team that won the Can-Am Tournament in 2012 and was recognized the same year as the Most Valuable Forward. Her commitment to doing the hard, unglamorous work on the field— rucking, mauling, lifting, and grinding out tough phases—made her an indispensable teammate. Jenn is also a teammate who brought heart and humor to the game. Known for her ability to make everyone laugh, she balanced her lightheartedness with an unmatched dedication when it came time to play.
In leadership, Jenn has served in multiple capacities to ensure the club’s growth and stability. She was the VP of the Honey Badgers during the early days of the V-Board and served as the club’s Social Chair for several years. Currently, she holds the position of Secretary on Severn River Rugby’s Board of Directors. Beyond official titles, Jenn played a crucial role in administrative tasks managing travel arrangements, tournament logistics, referees, equipment, and post-game activities.
Jenn has been instrumental in recruitment and retention efforts for the club by fostering relationships between Severn River and her alma mater, Salisbury University, as well as supporting two youth rugby programs. Her unique position as one of the few female youth rugby coaches in the area has further enhanced the club’s visibility and reach.
Her dedication to community and legacy is evident in her role as one of the founding members of the Severn River Rugby Alumni Association Committee. Through newsletters, outreach, and event planning, Jenn has worked to keep alumni engaged and connected. Her creativity shines in her unofficial role as the club seamstress, crafting quilts and other meaningful gifts for fundraisers and player recognition.
Jenn’s contributions to Severn River Rugby go far beyond stats or accolades. She has shaped the club’s culture, strengthened its foundation, and fostered a sense of community that will last for years to come. Whether on the field, in the boardroom, or behind the scenes, Jenn exemplifies the spirit of rugby, embodying hard work, loyalty, and an unwavering commitment to her club.
Severn River Rugby Alumni Weekend 2024 – A Celebration of Legacy and Family
From October 9th to 12th, Severn River Rugby welcomed alumni, players, and supporters for our annual Alumni Weekend – a cherished tradition that honors the past, celebrates the present, and looks to the future. This year’s event was filled with camaraderie, competition, and heartfelt remembrance of those who have shaped our club’s history.
Wednesday, October 9th – Honoring Dr. Doom
The weekend began with a special tribute to Tom ‘Dr. Doom’ Guidotti. Dave Metrinko led a group of alumni down to Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton, MD, where they paid their respects to one of Severn’s most legendary figures. Following the visit, the group returned to JB’s Sports Bar in Severna Park to share stories and raise a glass in Doom’s honor.
Thursday, October 10th – Golf Outing
Thursday saw the return of the 6th Annual Alumni Golf Outing at The Preserve at Eisenhower in Crownsville, MD. With 24 alumni and current team members participating, it was a great day for friendly competition and reconnecting.
Winners of the Day:
• Winning Foursome – Henry Posko, Dave Hearne, Eric Buntz, Mike Osborne
• Closest to the Pin – Tina Schafer
• Longest Drive – Rachel Priddy
After the tournament, alumni gathered at American Legion Post 175 to join the current Severn River teams for drinks and post-practice camaraderie.
Friday, October 11th – Dinner at The Reserve
On Friday evening, players and alumni met at ‘The Reserve’ at Two Rivers Steak & Fish House in Pasadena, MD for our Alumni Weekend Dinner. A highlight of the evening was a live performance by Marty O’Neill, who sang his tribute song “Dr. Doom.” Adding to the fun, Pete Freeman claimed victory in the ‘Dress Like Dr. Doom’ competition, much to the delight of the crowd.
Saturday, October 12th – Rugby, Remembrance, and Celebration. SATURDAY’S A RUGBY DAY!!!
Saturday was packed with rugby and family-friendly fun. The day featured a bounce house, a large potluck, and three thrilling matches.
Match Results:
• 11 AM – D2 Honey Badgers vs. James River – Honey Badgers won 41-7.
• Forward of the Match – Erin Gallagher-Johnson
• Back of the Match – Katie Marshall
• 1 PM – D3 Severn Men vs. Loudon – Severn Men dominated with a 71-21 victory.
• Forward of the Match – John Wheelton
• Back of the Match – Jake Davis
• 3 PM – D4 Severn Men/ Severn Alumni vs. Alexandria Roosters – Severn claimed another win with memorable appearances from alumni front row Dave Metrinko, Wendell Harsanyi, and Bernie Bratton.
Following the D3 Men’s match, players and alumni from Severn, along with James River, Loudon, and the Alexandria Roosters gathered on the field for a touching moment of silence. We honored all Severn River players lost since our founding in 1978. In a heartfelt presentation, Severn gifted a jersey – signed by both alumni and current players – to Tom ‘Dr. Doom’ Guidotti’s widow, Mary Jo, and their sons John, Joey and Tommy.
The success of Saturday wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible work of Honey Badgers Social Chair, Ava Dennis. Ava took charge of food and logistics, ensuring everything ran smoothly. She and Katie Marshall prepared a large portion of the food and coordinated with the Operations Board on budgeting and planning.
The weekend was a perfect blend of competition, laughter, and reflection – a true testament to the enduring bond shared by all who call Severn River Rugby their home. We’re already looking forward to next year’s Alumni Weekend!
Severn River Rugby Hosts D2 Women’s Collegiate Championships at Naval Academy
Severn River Rugby proudly hosted the D2 Women’s Collegiate Rugby Championships, Saturday November 2nd at the Naval Academy’s fields in Annapolis. The tournament brought together top collegiate teams for an exciting day of rugby, culminating in fierce competition for first and third place.
The tournament was originally set to take place at Severn River Rugby’s home pitch, American Legion Post 175. However, a scheduling conflict with the Post’s annual Bull & Oyster Roast led to the relocation. The Naval Academy fields provided an excellent alternative, allowing players and spectators to enjoy a seamless day of rugby action.
The day kicked off at 11 am with Temple University facing off against Kutztown University in the third-place match. Temple emerged victorious 53-8, securing the bronze with a strong performance. The championship final followed at 1 pm, where the College of William & Mary took on University of Delaware in a hard-fought match. William & Mary claimed the title, 21-10. William & Mary and Delaware both advanced to regional playoffs, with William & Mary competing in the South Regionals in Culpeper, VA, and Delaware earning an at-large bid to the North Regionals in Canton, MA.
In celebration of the graduating seniors, Severn River Rugby distributed over 30 gift baskets featuring Severn River T-shirts, colorful rugby balls, sunglasses, stickers, and a Severn River business card, in hopes they reach out after graduation. Severn River Rugby also generated over $1,800 in sales from tournament T-shirts and vintage Severn jerseys.
The tournament highlighted Severn River Rugby’s commitment to fostering growth in collegiate rugby and supporting the next generation of players. The success of the event is a testament to the club’s dedication to the sport and the rugby community.
Pictures of the matches:
Severn River Men Look Ahead to Fall
(Pictured left to right, top to bottom): William Delsing, Mike Flanagan, Jon Holtzman, Mike Posko, Pete Freeman and Mark Slifer
By: Milton Greenstreet
Hope springs eternal every year in the fall for Severn River RFC. The men's team hopes to turn over a new leaf this coming season with a few new faces (friend and foe alike) looking to mix things up in the Capital Rugby Union Division 3 Central for the ‘24-‘25 season.
Severn River Hall of Famer Mike Posko stepped down from his head coaching duties, a role he has carried for the club since the return to play after COVID-19. Mike stepped up for the club (as he always has) to help as caretaker manager after the chaos of the pandemic and has done so a little longer than intended. He won’t be disappearing and will still be helping around the club in advisory roles and as an assistant coach. The club is thankful for his dedication and work with the men’s team over the past few years.
Stepping up to fill his shoes is former and now current Head Coach William Delsing. William has been helping Severn River dutifully for years now, most recently coaching the Honey Badgers to multiple playoff appearances, including an appearance in the D2 National Championship final in 2023. William had a long stint as the men’s head coach about a decade ago, also leading the men to several playoff appearances in Division 2. The South African is looking to bring back some heavy hitting and more fitness into the men’s side to take them to the next level. By his side will be an impressive coaching team featuring USA Rugby Hall of Famer Mike Flanagan, former USA Eagle and Severn River Hall of Famer Jon Holtzman, Severn River Hall of Famers Mike Posko and Pete Freeman, and veteran coach/player Mark Slifer.
Last year’s campaign for the men was lackluster—not necessarily poor, but not up to snuff with the lofty goals that Severn River sets for themselves. The past several seasons have been an arm wrestle between North Bay and Severn River for control of the D3 Central. The boys lost their first matrix match to North Bay the first week of the season, and it completely took the wind out of their sails. They managed to finish with a winning record but missed out on playoffs after losing to relative newcomer Loudoun Rugby. In 2024, North Bay has moved up to D2 and actually left the Capital, joining the EPRU. Severn will not get their revenge this year, but perhaps will come across North Bay in a friendly in the future. They have their hands full with Loudoun running high on their most successful D3 campaign to date, as well as newcomers Riverlands RFC joining the ranks of the D3 Central. Severn River looks to rebound from a tough ‘23-‘24 season with some new blood, including long-time stalwart Dan Wooddell taking over as Captain. Dan has been a stoic, no-nonsense leader on the team, running the show from scrum half for several years now. But in 2024 he is officially taking the wheel and looking to right the ship to get Severn River back where they belong, at the very top of Division 3 Central.
Honey Badgers: Summer 7's
By: Maria Russo
Imagine this: veterans and college students teaming up on the rugby field in the summer—an exhilarating blend of wisdom and wild enthusiasm. Switching from 15’s to 7’s is like going from a 32 oz ribeye to a petite, 6oz filet—same sport, just served up differently! It's akin to convincing a bulldozer to be a Ferrari.
At our first tournament, Baltimore 7s, the Honey Badgers fielded two teams: Honey Badgers and Honey Dawgs. Lineouts became slip-and-slides, and rucks felt like wrestling in a swamp. As injuries mounted, big shoutouts go to Veronica Krieger, who survived her first tournament with all ten fingers and just a couple of stitches, and Ally Dearing, who scored multiple tries with her speed. Katie Marshall also proved she’s a natural 7’s player. The Honey Badgers finished 4th, while the Honey Dawgs took home 2nd in a close final game. We ended the day at the Hampden Beer Social Garden, thanks to social chairs Ava Dennis and Michael Divver. Hannah Drilling earned "Bitch of the Pitch" for providing high-quality H2O without any mishaps, and Maria Russo received "Player of the Tournament" for showing that 15’s props can indeed survive multiple 60-meter runs for tries.
In our second tournament in Wilmington, the Honey Badgers showcased persistence and teamwork, finishing their bracket 2-1. In the quarterfinals, the Badgers tied against Wilmington. Erin Gallagher-Johnson set the pace with the first try, followed by strong performances from Lily Soliday, Katelynn Barkell, and Olivia Driver with their excellent tackles and runs. The Badgers tied for 3rd with the Stingers, and Gwendolynne Lindsey, scoring her first Severn try and debuting her scrum-half skills, was awarded "Player of the Tournament."
Our final tournament of the 7’s season was in Schuylkill. With the summer sun finally relenting, we faced cooler weather and tougher competition. Kale Carter dominated the tackles, while Kerry Froh led the backline with poise. Scrappy was named "Player of the Tournament" for their ferocious gameplay.
A huge shoutout to Erin Gallagher-Johnson and Katie Marshall, our newly appointed captains for 2024-2025, for organizing 7’s practices and bringing a positive attitude to our summer season. It’s rugby, dialed up to 'fast forward' mode, where the only thing thicker than the mud is the sunscreen you forgot to apply.
50th Anniversary of the CAN-AM Rugby Tournament
By: Katie Marshall
The Badgers teamed up with Frederick Rugby Club to tackle the 50th anniversary of CAN-AM Rugby’s tournament, competing as Severick. Severick had an impressive performance, finishing the tournament with a 3-1 record. On Saturday, they played three matches. They kicked off the tournament by defeating their familiar rivals, the DC Furies, with a hard-fought 31-26 win. After a long break, they returned to secure another victory in their 3 PM match against the Barracks Rangers, dominating with a score of 60-0. The day ended on a high note with a post-dinner win against South Buffalo, 40-0. The day was filled with laughs, lots of tries, and minimal puking on the sidelines.
With no curfew in sight, the celebrations continued long into the night. Sunday morning at 8 AM looked rather different for Severick compared to their opponent, the Rochester Renegades. The Renegades, who had a team curfew and did not experience firsthand that bars in New York do not close until 4 AM, arrived at the field with plenty of time to warm up—probably had some breakfast and even brushed their hair. Severick, despite showing up 15 minutes before kickoff without a ball to practice with, started strong, leading 12-0 in the match. However, the Rochester Renegades came back to win the match 28-12. Severick learned a valuable lesson that morning, which will likely be forgotten before next year's CAN-AM’s. It turns out chasing down a fast wing at 8 AM is much harder after a night of fun in Lake Placid. Severick never gave up though and smiled through the pain. It was a beautiful weekend of rugby and social events.
U23 Mid-Atlantic All-Stars
Honey Badgers Taylor McLean, Izzy Smith, Mack Putlowski, and Maddie Steele secured their places on the U23 Mid-Atlantic All-Star team after two tryouts in May, held in Philadelphia and at St. Mary's College. They competed in a tournament from June 28-30 at the MLR Free Jacks' stadium in Quincy, MA, where the Mid-Atlantic team took 3rd place against other regional U23 All-Star teams.
Maddie Steele- ‘U23 was a great experience especially as a growing player. It was cool to see players from all over the country as well as get a variety of different coaching. Our team was full of awesome, hilarious people and we all got really close over the weekend, our team group chat is still always buzzing which is super great. I’m thankful that Severn saw enough potential in me as a player and person to help send me to the U23 tournament, it’s a learning experience I’ll carry for the rest of my life.’
Mack Putlowski- ‘Having the opportunity to be a part of the U23 Select MidAtlantic Squad two years in a row was such an honor and privilege to be a part of. Meeting new people, traveling to new places, and getting to learn more and more everyday about the sport that I love with the selects program has given me memories I know I’ll cherish for a lifetime. Being a newer player in the sport I found Severn River after my first year playing rugby and found myself immersed in a community of talented and supportive players and coaches that I knew always had my back. Playing rugby in college and only being able to play as a Honey Badger during my school breaks gave me a sense of confidence in the sport as I grew into the player I am today. The Severn squad really took me under their wing and taught me skills I still use daily and pass on to newer players on other teams I am a part of. Thanks to Severn River pushing me to grow alongside players with more experience and learning to play at a higher level, I’ve been given the opportunity to continuously grow as a player on and off the field and play in a more competitive league.’
Taylor McLean- ‘U23 was such an amazing experience! I made lifelong friends and love seeing them at every rugby tournament. I learned and have grown so much as a player. Getting to play new positions was a great opportunity for me as a utility player to grow. The coaching was amazing! Such a great experience! Thank you, Severn, for helping me accomplish this achievement! I have learned so much and I know I can reach high levels and continue to work as hard as possible to reach the goals I want.’