In the tapestry of Severn River Rugby, where passion intertwines with history, Chris Posko emerges as a beacon of dedication, camaraderie, and unrivaled contributions to the sport. As the Severn River Rugby Hall of Fame opens its doors to the Class of 2023-2024, Chris Posko's name rightfully takes its place among legends - an induction that echoes four decades of commitment to the game.
Reflecting on the past 45+ years, Chris expresses pride in the club's success, with a special mention of the youth programs and the flourishing Honey Badgers teams. Chris credits numerous inspirations, especially watching his brothers play for Old Red and eventually Severn River and acknowledges the coaches and players who continue to influence not only his rugby career but also his personal life.
For Chris, the journey from a spectator to a player was a meticulous process. Kicking a rugby ball around at 13, when youth teams hadn’t been formed, he immersed himself in the sport, patiently waiting until he was of sufficient size to join the fray. A fortunate change in his work schedule, thanks to Pete, allowed him to play his first game in England, marking the commencement of a remarkable rugby odyssey.
Early on, Chris distinguished himself as one of the first three players, along with Scotty Brusnighan and Dave Chamberlain, selected to the Under 23 select side for the Potomac Rugby Union from Severn River Rugby Football Club.
Ascending from the Under 23 side, Chris continued to make his mark on the A-side, eventually assuming the mantle of captain. In an era where coaching responsibilities fell to the captain, Chris took the initiative to learn more about rugby by attending classes at the Potomac Rugby Union. His commitment extended to being a selector for six years.
The advent of sevens rugby brought a new dimension to Chris's playing career. Initially a means to stay in shape during the summer, sevens rugby evolved into something much more. Severn River competed and triumphed in several tournaments, with Chris himself earning the inaugural "Golden Sevens Award." The subsequent year, he surprised even himself by winning the Drop Kick competition.
Chris's versatility shone through as he played all back positions with great skill. Starting as a teenage second row, he seamlessly transitioned to the wing, center, and fly half, showcasing his adaptability, ball-handling prowess, ability to kick for goal, and precision in taking the majority of kicks for touch.
As captain, Chris led Severn River on their first tour to Ireland. Embodying the resilient spirit of rugby players by taking the field with a surgically repaired broken hand. The camaraderie, the shared triumphs, and the indomitable will overcome this adversity left an indelible mark on his memories.
Chris's contributions extended beyond his playing days. Just before the onset of Covid-19, he coached at Spalding High School, achieving an undefeated season. Off the field, he orchestrated gatherings of Old Boys, playing in tournaments and even facing off against the New Orleans Old Boys at the national stadium.
Among the many unforgettable moments, a triumph in Mobile, Alabama at the National and an underdog victory against Albany in the championship game stand out. In a moment of post-game bravado, Chris famously told the Potomac Rugby Union representative that he didn't deserve a ride back to DC—a testament to the tenacity and spirit that defines Severn River Rugby.
Chris's legacy is not just in the awards or victories, but in the laughter shared, the friendships forged, and the enduring spirit of a player who gave his all, whether on the field or the sidelines. As the Severn River Rugby Hall of Fame welcomes Chris Posko into its esteemed Class of 2023-2024, it celebrates not just an individual but a journey, a commitment, and the embodiment of what it means to be part of the rugby brotherhood.
SRRFC Hall of Fame Class of 2023-2024 Inductee: Chris Posko
