Severn River Rugby Club pulled out all the stops for its annual banquet, blending a nostalgic 1920s speakeasy theme with a touch of rugby flair at The Historic Baldwin Hall in Millersville. With ruggers donning their finest, the ambiance was electric, with the secret password "1978" unlocking the festivities, a nod to the club's founding year.
The event was catered by Nick's Pizza and Subs, with Crafts 2 Much providing elegant centerpieces. Special thanks were extended to social chairs Mike "Butters" Gibson and Victoria Zito for orchestrating the affair.
Highlighting the evening were the accolades bestowed upon a new class of players, with both men's and Honey Badger teams shining bright. Notable mentions included Sophie Clendenin clinching Most Valuable Forward for D2 and Caroline Heimerl receiving the esteemed Steel Tits award. Dan Wooddell was celebrated as D3 Back of the Year, while Adam Corder claimed the title of Rookie of the Year, promising a bright future for the club.
The coveted YAD award found its rightful place in the hands of Old Boy, Ed Deming, a fitting acknowledgment of his enduring YAD legacy. Severn River leadership has made several attempts to piece together its long 46 years of history. During the 40th Anniversary celebration we encouraged alumni to indicate where they had won past awards. Mike Posko trusting where the alumni had marked, engraved the plaque only to later discover that Ed Deming was now officially 'Rookie of the Year' for 2006, 2008, 2012 and 2014.
The SRRFC Hall of Fame welcomed four distinguished gentlemen among its ranks: Scott "Scotty B" Brusnighan, Bobby "Bobby D" DeStefano, Wendell Harsanyi, and Chris Posko, each leaving an indelible mark on the club's legacy.
As the NFL ProBowl continues to fade in comparison, the allure of Severn River Rugby's annual banquet grows stronger, drawing current, former, and legendary players alike. With sights set on the impending 50th anniversary milestone, the club aims to surpass the resounding success of this year's celebration, paving the way for a future filled with camaraderie, excellence, and unforgettable memories.
Award Summary:
Honey Badger Awards:
Most Valuable Back D2- Katelynn “McRib” Barkell
Most Valuable Forward D2- Sophie Clendenin
Most Valuable Back D3- Cat Giordano
Most Valuable Forward D3- Victoria Giampaolo
Steel Tits- Caroline Heimerl
Rookie of the Year- Jaz Lawhorn
Unsung Hero- Katie Turner
MVP- Hope Wasserman
Men’s Awards:
Most Valuable Back D3- Dan Wooddell
Most Valuable Forward D3- Taylor Gavigan
Most Valuable Back D4 – Austin Bradley
Most Valuable Forward D4 – Mike Schaefer
Rookie of the Year- Adam Corder
Unsung Hero- Joe Milluzzo
YAD:
Ed Deming
Hall of Fame Class of 2023-2024:
Scott "Scotty B" Brusnighan
Bobby "Bobby D" DeStefano
Wendell Harsanyi
Chris Posko