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!