St. Patty's Day at the Pitch

The Severn River Women started their spring with a strong win against Philly. In their 53-10 victory, there were plenty of tries to go around. At the 1:45 mark, Mikey Williams took a perfect diagonal run with a quick pop from Tina Schafer for the easy score. The forwards continued to shine with a strong assist from Farrah Douglas that ended in a Kate Todorovich try. Mikey added another try to her tally and the backs took over from there. Madam President, Aly Jost McCarty, had three tries on the day despite being sicker than sick this past week and Tiffany Paul, Casey Hartzell, and Tina all added tries before the day was done. Most impressively, Farrah at prop was involved in a number of the tries and showcased her hard work in the off season. Masha Romanchak has returned to Severn River after graduating from Towson this fall. Her four conversions are a sign of excellent things to come. Rookie Lisa Berta found herself learning defense under the gun and prevented at least two breakaway runs on the outside. Overall, the women showcased their work in the off season and recognized the work they still have left ahead of them. It’s going to be a great spring. Forward of the Match: Kate ‘Todo’ Todorovich Back of the Match: Masha Romanchak

Coming off a frustrating loss against Washington Irish, the Severn River Men were looking to rebound with a solid showing against Baltimore Chesapeake. Severn benefited from an early yellow card by BC, and fullback Colin Gotimer was able to find the try zone while the boys were playing a man up. BC had several attempts to kick for points in the first half, but was unable to find the space between the uprights. Outside center, John Sage, topped off the first half with a bruising run, leading Severn River into the break at 14-0. The men came out swinging in the 2nd half, with a quick try 3 minutes in from fly half Erik “Punchy” Dronberger. Severn River forwards demonstrated utter dominance in set pieces by driving BC’s scrums backwards as if on skates and mauling out of line-outs for gains. Flanker Aldo Batubara, inside center Quinn Freeman, and scrum half Adam Dondero all jumped in on the scoring with a try each. Severn River finished the half with 1 more try from 8-man Mike Blimmel and an impressive defensive stand on their own 5 meter line to seal the 47-3 victory. Post match laurels were awarded to Forward of the Match Mike Blimmel and Back of the Match Erik “Punchy” Dronberger, who also slotted 6 of 7 conversions.

The Severn River Killer B’s faced off against Delmarva. While they ultimately fell 51-14, they were able to get newer guys plenty of playing time and will be able to use this experience to improve in the future. Back of the Match and Forward of the match were awarded to Joe Asselin and Joe Milluzzo, respectively. 

On Sunday, a group of Old Boys headed to the Edgewater American Legion for the Annual Poltroon’s 10s Tournament. Claiming the best social of the season, the ‘Old Salts’ put in their work both during and after the matches and proved yet again that no one really quits playing rugby. While the rest of us were sleeping off our hangovers, these gentlemen were getting it done on the pitch. A huge thank you to Scuba and Zach for putting this together.

Rugby and the Workplace...You Can Break Away with the Right Support

From the desk of Deb Dulin.

When people told me that I should start my own business, I used to laugh it off. Early in my design career, I was perfectly content to be an employee and let higher-ups take care of the business side of running a business. But as time went on, going into business for myself became a realistic and practical option for me. There are many things that school doesn’t prepare you for, but life experience does—and playing rugby was part of the reason I gained confidence in going out on my own. In 2011, I took my side-hustle in graphic design into a full-time endeavor. Eight years later, Dulin Design is a full-fledged branding studio with a team of content experts, collaborating with businesses to develop their branding and accelerate their marketing efforts.

Getting started

When I first started playing rugby in college, it was because of the encouragement of friends who were on the team. Like for all rookies, there was a steep learning curve. The support and patience of my teammates kept me coming back and trying harder. In business, there is no textbook on how to get started—you do your own research and seek guidance on how to set up legal and financial matters. And, having a supportive family is a tremendous asset for entrepreneurs as we navigate building a business.

Changing positions

I spent most of my time with Severn River playing second row and flanker, but in college I was a wing and center. My positions changed with the needs of each club and what our strengths were as a team. Similarly, as businesses grow it’s common for products and services to evolve with customer needs. When I started out, the design services I planned to offer were different from what I offer now. As I built a client roster, they kept coming back to me for additional projects that we tackled with gusto. In fact, one of the more popular services now is brand strategy--helping clients get comfortable with evolving their marketing and messaging to align with their current target audiences.

Being prepared for unexpected twists

Like any sport, rugby requires training and practice to be prepared for such a fluid game. Players can (and do) make mistakes, get back up again and charge right back into the action. Grit is a trait that rugby players gain in spades. In work, projects can take unexpected turns, the goal line moves, things happen outside of our control—we pound away and drive to done, trusting in our ability to do the work.

Building a team

It’s not news to anyone who has stepped on a pitch that rugby is a team sport—“15 as 1.” Dulin Design has grown into a virtual team—we are designers, writers and developers spread across the United States. It gives us the ability to take on a greater variety of projects and continue to collaborate with our clients again and again. Just like on a rugby pitch, there are times when certain players step up and shine and the team supports them. Each person has a specialty, so team members are chosen based on the needs of the project and our team members’ strengths. I truly enjoy working as a team and making the end results better based on our collective creative efforts.

There is no doubt that I bring what I learned in rugby to my business—and to my life. Would I have had the courage to make the leap without these skills? Probably not. I may have continued playing it safe. After eight years of being self-employed, I can say the rewards are worth it. Every day, it requires flexibility, tenacity, and the support of my team—but like in rugby—the feeling that comes from achieving something you’ve worked hard for, surrounded by those who are equally passionate and dedicated, is truly a victory.

For more information about Deb’s company, Dulin Design, CLICK HERE.

Deb Dulin has 15 years’ experience in graphic design, focusing on print design and environmental graphics. Combined with a background in project management and a passion for asking questions, she prioritizes clear expectations, schedules and budget to create solutions customized to meet the client’s needs.

As an alumni of Severn River Rugby, Deb continues to contribute to the club’s efforts to promote rugby in the mid-Atlantic region. In her spare time, she enjoys powerlifting, hiking and cheering on the Baltimore Ravens.

40th Anniversary Celebration Weekend

The 40th Anniversary weekend could only be described one way…EPIC!  People came from near, far and even across the ocean to reunite with their rugby family. 

Alumni weekend kicked off on Thursday with a Ryder Cup style golf tournament set up by Joe Helpa, at Renditions in Davidsonville.  Thirty-two “golfers” teed off that day to play a mix of scramble, best ball and alternate shot and one two-man team came out victorious; Jon Holtzman and friend Brock Anderson.  Others may argue that Amanda Noss and Dave Pick really won that day since they led in several categories, including ‘most shots drank’, ‘most carts stuck in the marsh,’ and finally, ‘most holes not actually played.’  The SRRFC Alumni Association may also like to claim the win on the day by getting Moose drunk enough to become the first ‘Legacy Level’ member.  Whoever claims the big win, all can agree it was a fun afternoon.

River wasn’t done for the day though.  They gathered at one of their former glorious hang outs; Ebb Tide in Annapolis.  If you have ever been a patron in this fine establishment you might think ‘no way you can get kicked out of here’, but a few…a proud few, still there at the late hour of 9:30pm, managed to do it.  With nowhere to turn, the remaining ruggers decided that Stan and Joe’s could provide some food and shelter for the remainder of the evening.  Amazingly enough, the only casualty that night was Jason Dunbar’s flip flops.

Friday’s activities began in the afternoon as Severn looked to Mike Johansen to inspire the day’s fun.  We gathered at Laurel Park Racetrack for some VIP treatment in the Sports Book Lounge.  The ruggers enjoy complimentary wings and 2 for 1 beers while trying to win a couple dollars on the ponies.  Severn headed to the winner’s circle after the “Fallen Rugger Memorial Race” sponsored by the club.  They presented the winning jockey with a plaque and rugby ball.  Joe Helpa and Wendell Harsanyi showed up that day, not only with hopes for a pony ride, but also for the rare chance to be in a picture with a man shorter than them.  Unfortunately, this jockey measured in just above the two hopefuls.

As the sun began to set, it was time to head back to Severn’s sponsor bar, Stan and Joe’s, for some more shenanigans. The Alumni filled the back half of the bar and was engaged in a hugging frenzy as they received friends many hadn’t seen in 20 years. The current team showed up later in the evening in full ninja costumes to celebrate the Halloween weekend in unison. Some crawled from bar to bar, others went home early to be refreshed for the Alumni vs Current team match ups the next day, a few spent their night feeding shots to the current team while enjoying a refreshing glass of soda water and lime, hoping the youngsters would be too hungover to compete in the early morning.

Saturday’s A Rugby Day!  The weather could not have been more perfect at the American Legion Post 175, in Severna Park that day…birds were chirping; sun was shining…oh wait that was a different day.  THIS day was freezing cold and it was raining like a cow pissing on a flat rock.  Good thing Severn likes the mud!  The ladies started the day by lacing up their boots and zipping up their dresses, for a prom dress Alumni Vs Current team match up.  Referee, Pete Freeman and touch judges Milton Greenstreet and Phill Denton also looked strikingly beautiful in their gowns.  The alumni women were victorious on the day, but did give up a break away try to Aly McCarty and interception try to Charlee Bryant.  After the women got the field nice and muddy it was the Men’s turn to slop around.  The current team took the win by a couple tries that day, but onlookers might say it took them way too long to realize the man across from them was-in some cases-twice their age. Perhaps the best plan of attack would be using their speed advantage on the outside, however, the night’s revelry took control of their cognitive abilities.  In the end, the whole Severn River family gathered, with representation throughout the 40 years of the clubs’ existence, for a center of the field group photo.

Up next that day was the social under the Pavilion.  Some hosed off but others just embraced their mud covered faces.  Ruling over the event was Current Player Princess, Charlee Bryant and Alumni Queen, Meredith McAlister, the women of the match that day.  On the men’s side Richard Maldonado and Quinn Freeman were awarded men of the match for the current team while Aaron Cree, Jason Dunbar, Donny Stevens and Steve Palmer represented for the Alumni.  After making short work of the pasta and beer, everyone headed to the showers to make themselves presentable.

The Gala was definitely one for the books.  Severn entered the Mainsail ballroom at the Doubletree Hilton in Annapolis at 7pm that night.  As the group enjoyed their dinner, club Co-founder, Henry Posko opened the night with a few remarks.  Milton Greenstreet, Club President, was the master of ceremonies for the evening and continued the program with a heartfelt thank you and a few jokes for the evening’s table sponsors.  Next the women’s team captains, Casey Hartzell and Lenni Ferreira presented this year’s recipients; Tiffany Paul, Katie Marshall, Scrappy, Ashley Chafin and Tina Schafer with their rings.  Lenni Ferreira was awarded the ‘Player’s Player’ plaque by her teammates for her dedication to the team. The men followed with derby’s for John Sage, Punchy, Nick Stratchko and Colin Gotimer presented by Milton Greenstreet, Captain, Colin Gotimer and Men’s Team President, Brad McCarty. Mike Posko, Club Co-Founder got up next to present the ‘Leather Balls’ award to Dan Gotimer and Jerry Gallion.  The club took a moment to thank the hard working coaching staff; Dave Egar, Chad Newcomb, Dolla Harmse, Katie Fitzgerald and Rachel Priddy, with some much appreciated gifts.  Meredith McAlister, Katie Fitzgerald and Jenn Fenzel snuck in to the program to surprise Rachel ‘Sloth’ Priddy with being crowned the ‘Gala Queen’. Mike ‘Bergie’ Bergeson brought a very special gift for the family of the late, great, and forever missed Tom ‘Dr. Doom’ Guidotti. It was a bottle of the last beer Dr. Doom ever brewed. The family was grateful for the special gift and the gesture brought the crowd to their feet.  Next, Jerry Gallion spoke on what is important for the ‘Legacy and Longevity’ of a club that has been around for 40 years.  Finally, the the main event…Marty O’Neill inducted long time friends Mike Posko, Henry Posko and Pete Freeman into the SRRFC Hall of Fame.  The three gentlemen looked absolutely dashing in their Navy HOF blazers, lined with Black watch plaid and sporting the crest on the breast pocket.  It was a sight that brought tears to their friend’s and family’s eyes and the crowd to their feet once again.  (I’m not crying, you’re crying!)  Finally, it was time to shame all those that had been a dick that year.   Lenni Ferreira made the women’s team proud keeping the YAD with them after she sent some questionable pics to the team GroupMe text.  And the Golden YAD could not have possibly gone to any other person than, long standing club dick, Bill ‘Mouth’ Dennison.  Severn managed to squeeze in some dancing and drinking before being steered towards the hotel bar.  After some more drinks, and rugby songs, Severn was finally sent packing and off to bed. 

As the sun rose on Sunday morning, a few managed to make it to the hotel restaurant for brunch. With the smell of bacon and shame in the air the group discussed the previous nights’ antics.

Alumni Weekend Awards

Men of the Match: Richard Maldonado, Quinn Freeman, Aaron Cree, Jason Dunbar, Donny Stevens and Steve Palmer.

Women of the Match: Charlee Bryant and Meredith McAlister

2018 Men’s Team Awards

Rookie of the Year: John Sage

MVB: Erik 'Punchy' Droberger

MVF: Nick Stratchko

Unsung Hero: Colin Gotimer

2018 Women’s Team Awards

Rookie of the Year: Tiffany Paul

MVB: Katie Marshall

MVF: Hannah 'Scrappy' Whiteley

Unsung Hero: Ashley Chafin

Steel Tits: Tina Schafer

Players Player: Lenni Ferreira

Gala Awards

Leather Balls: Dan Gotimer and Jerry Gallion

YAD: Lenni Ferreira

Golden YAD: Bill ‘‘Mouth’ Dennison

Gala Queen: Rachel ‘Sloth’ Priddy

Inaugural Hall of Fame Inductees

Mike Posko

Henry Posko

Pete Freeman

Inaugural Class of the Severn River Rugby Hall of Fame Inducted

Pete Freeman, Mike Posko, and Henry Posko became the inaugural members of the Severn River Rugby Hall of Fame on October 27, 2018. With some remarkable words by teammate and lifelong friend Marty O’Neil, these three set a daunting precedent for future inductees. Marty’s remarks about each inductee are summarized below:

Pete Freeman

Pete began his rugby playing days in 1978 at what was then known as Frostburg State College. That same Frostburg side not only gave us Pete, it’s players formed the backbone of Maryland Old Boys (MOB) for years.   You may not know this but Pete is actually a biology major masquerading as a skilled craftsman and I have vivid memories of riding to matches in that old Toyota pickup and getting a play by play of the flora and fauna from Hagerstown to Morgantown.

Well, Pete brought his talents back home to Severna Park in 1979 and has continued to be an active player ever since.  Pete has also laced his boots up for the PRU Select Side, BASS or Baltimore Areas Select Side, ERU, Louisiana Exiles, Virginia Cardinals, Wilmington Old Boys, the CRABBS and of course the Severn Old Salts.

He was a multiple winner of Most Valuable Back and Unsung Hero.  He captained the club for 3 years, coached for 3 years, served as Secretary and of course was Mr. Field and Equipment forever.

Pete is drenched in rugby. He continues to referee, coach the Severna Park Green Hornets youth program, teach at coaching clinics, introduce his boys into the sport and stay in touch with scores of ruggers - old and new, international and domestic.

When we played, you wanted to be around him because he was always first to every breakdown. On the social side, you wanted to be around him because he made it so easy to just be yourself.

Mike Posko

Mike, along with his brother Henry founded Severn River Rugby in 1978 and Mike, in some form or fashion, has been roaming the Severn River pitch ever since.  Mike also suited up for the Old Salts, CRABS, UMBC Alumni, Virginia Cardinals, Chesapeake Old Boys, Wilmington Old Boys, Gorge Old Boys, PAC Old Boys … there is an OLD theme here …Poltroons, and Roosters.

Mike won the Most Valuable Forward (twice) and the Most Valuable Back award.  He was also a select side player on four different occasions, won the Leather Balls twice and impressively, had an Eagle tryout in 1986.

Mike also served as Captain, Selector, President, Vice President and Governor.   He coordinated a number of tours ranging from England in 1981 to Ireland in 2017.  He coached both the 15’s and 7 sides for a number of years but perhaps his unwavering affection for rugby reared it’s unrealistic head when at the age of 50, he challenged the props to get fit and as a result, Mike ended up playing A side.

Most of all, Mike was the difference maker in all of the key matches. Fearless at the back of a scrum and never afraid to stand toe-to-toe with any opponent, Mike leads by example and his passion for this club and the game have impacted countless ruggers along the way.

Henry Posko

Henry was the scrum half and outside center for Old Red Rugby from 1974-1978.  Wanting to play a bit closer to home, he co-founded this very club with his brother Michael in 1978.

Henry owns virtually all the ‘firsts’ with Severn River.  First Coach, First Captain, First Selector, First Scrum Half – until Pete later bailed him out.  It should not go unnoticed that Henry also was also the ‘first check book’ – getting the club off the ground takes union dues, money for jerseys (those funky brown things), parties,  and field expenses.

Off the field, Henry has served as President, Vice President, Governor, Match Secretary and Field and Equipment guy.  He was the Inaugural recipient of the “Leather Balls” award back in 1978 and won his derby for Most Valuable Back in 1979.  Henry also coached the first Coed youth rugby for the Green Hornets and sandwiched his virtually lifetime relationship with the Club with two international tours:  England in 1981 and Ireland in 2017.

Henry has always been the role model for this club.  A reserved, dignified and elegant man that was happy to see others be in the spot light, that wanted to make their dent in the universe. He set the initial direction for this club, has mentored leaders up close and from a distance and will always be our compass.

Severn River Men take down NOVA

Severn River came out of their bye week looking to make a statement against mid table rival, NOVA, on October 20th and their plans started with mixed results. While Severn were able to quickly grab the lead, through a quick-tap try from Fly-half Erik “Punchy” Dronberger, NOVA evened the score a few minutes later via an interception by their outside center. Dronberger again found the try zone immediately after this NOVA score and in the 33rd minute, Number 8 Mike Blimmel, put the visitors up, 17-7. But a fourth try was disallowed by the referee after it was initially called. This seemed to bolster the NOVA squad, as much as it deflated the boys from Annapolis. NOVA preceded to put another converted try and a penalty kick on the board, leaving the game knotted up at 17. At the stroke of halftime, Blimmel found the score sheet again, putting the green and blue up 24-17 at half. This back and forth nature of the match seemed to be put to bed by Head Coach Dave Egar’s halftime talk, as Severn came out flying in the 2nd half, with a brace of tries from veteran flanker Jim Benson, as well as a hard earned try from his open-side partner, Nick Stratchko. The final score came to 43-22, as Severn cemented a three game winning streak. Stratchko and Outside Center John Sage were awarded Man of the Match honors. Severn are home for their 40th Anniversary Alumni match on October 27th, kickoff is at 1pm.

Tries: E. Dronberger (2-5), M. Blimmel (2-4), N. Stratchko (1-2), J. Benson (2)

Conversions: E. Dronberger (4 of 7; 16 of 21)

Honey Badgers are 5-0!

Wrapping up the fall season at 5-0, the Honey Badgers are feeling good. The leadership from the Captains as well as the quiet leadership exhibited by players who are willing to try new positions and support each other has been the key to each victory this season. Against the Furies D-2 side on Saturday, the team showcased their hard work and commitment to each other’s success.

The line-up for Saturday included Kerry and Mikey at prop supporting Gabby at hooker. Seconds were Captain Lenni and Burris (in her last match for SR before moving to Germany with her fiancee!). In the loose, Chafin, Scrappy, and Todo took their spots with Tina at the 9. Connecting to the backs was simple with Charlee at fly, and Captain Casey, Aly, Tiffany, and Marshall rounding out the strong side. For the first time, Shelly started at wing where her speed and agility led to an outstanding first full match. With a strong bench that included Lara, Sammi, Soup, Niki, and some old girls who still think they can run, the team was poised to finish the season strong.

From kickoff, the Honey Badgers took control. Todo had two tries in the first six minutes of the match and by minute thirty-four, Severn River was up 64-0. The second half allowed the subs some room to gain good game time experience and proved that they will be gunning for those starting spots in the spring. By the end of the match, the Furies continued to play with heart and tenacity, a true testament to their commitment to the sport and each other. After wrapping up the day with a 103-0 victory, both teams celebrated at Stan and Joe’s over some pasta and more than a few pitchers of the finest brew.

Scrappy earned Forward of the Match for her remarkable tackling, scoring, and supporting efforts, while Tiffany earned Back of the Match for shutting down the outside and chasing every ball.

Tries: K. Todorovich (3), M. Williams (3), H. Whiteley (2), A. McCarty (3), S. Bottorf (2), K. Schafer (1), L. Ferreira (1), K. Marshall (1), A. Hiken (1)

Conversions: C. Bryan (7 out of 11), A. McCarty (2 out of 2), K. Marshall (0 out of 1), K. Todorovich (0 out of 1), T. Paul (0 out of 1), H. Whiteley (0 out of 1)

#1-Williams, Michal, #2-Hiken, Allison, #3-Lammers, Kerry, #4-Burris, Lauren, #5-Ferreira, Lena, #6-Chafin, Ashley, #7-Whiteley, Hannah, #8-Todorovich, Kathryn, #9-Schafer, Kristina, #10-Bryan, Charlee, #11-Freeman, Shelly, #12-Hartzell, Casey, #13-McCarty, Alyson, #14-Paul, Tiffany, #15-Marshall, Kaitlyn, #16-Bryan, Lara, #17-Bottorf, Samantha, #18-Wachtel,Candice, #19-Suprun, Darian, #20- Fitzgerald, Kathryn, #21- Priddy, Rachel

Severn River Women Defeat James River

Last Saturday the Severn River Women took to their home pitch to face James River. With both teams undefeated heading into the match, tensions were high from the start. The quiet warm-up made the coaches a little uneasy, but it turns-out the honey badgers were just harnessing their energy.

The Severn River Fly-half, Charlee, took control from the first whistle. With strong, striking runs that lasted throughout the match, she put up the first points in the first four minutes. With a strong conversion kicking game as well, her performance helped guide the team to the win. THe first-half was a strong team effort from all the starters with quick, supported rucks that kept the ball in play. Scrappy, Todo, Tina, Mikey, and Tiffany all scored in the first half and showcased the versatility of the entire offense. Late in the first half, James River’s wing broke through the defensive line for a try, reminding the honey badgers to keep their focus.

Unfortunately, play in the second half was a bit sloppy as humidity and fitness seemed to get the best of both squads. Severn River added two tries in the second half and James River added another just at the end of regulation, but play was not nearly as dynamic as in the first half. Severn River faced a number of penalties in the second half that prevented them from playing multiple phases and returning to the groove they established in the first forty minutes. With the score at the end of regulation 46-10 in favor of Severn River, the honey badgers maintain their undefeated record in the South!

The women have a bye this weekend, but will return to their home pitch on the 20th to face the Furies for the second time this season. The return of London and continued impressive play from new teammates Shelly, Eggs, Laura, Dallas, Tiffany, and Niki, the future is bright for Severn River.

Tries: C.Bryan (2), K.Todorovich (1), H.Whiteley (1), T.Schafer (1), T.Paul (1), M.Williams (2)

Conversions: C.Bryan (3 out of 7)

A.McCarty (0 out of 1)

Severn River Men Over North Bay

Severn River faced off against North Bay Rugby last Saturday, in what has been a playoff implicating, hard-hitting affair since both clubs dropped down to Division Three. Severn River was able to secure their first win over North Bay in matrix play since arriving in D3, upending North Bay 24-15. Early on, it looked to be a snake bitten afternoon for the men from Annapolis, as Inside Center Matt Baxter came off with a groin injury in the 10th minute. Baxter has been battling to stay fit all season and while River was disappointed to lose him, Jeremiah Batucan came on as a substitute and immediately made an impact, sticking his nose in with the forwards and scoring on a pick and go just minutes after subbing on. Number 8 Mike Blimmel, doubled Severn’s lead with a trot into the try zone in the 35th minute. North Bay got off to a rough start in the second half, when their strong side wing Nick Webb was cautioned by the referee for tackling Fly-Half Erik Dronberger well after a tactical kick. Severn took the opportunity by the scruff of the neck, quickly scoring twice via set plays with the man advantage. Fullback Colin Gotimer and Wing Zach Lammers both found the corner flag inside 60 minutes. Severn looked like they were coasting to an easy shutout win, but North Bay had a few answers late on, scoring 3 unanswered (and unconverted) tries to finish the match. Severn held on for the win, making it two in a row for the green and blues. Man of the Match honors were taken home by Mike Blimmel and Zach Lammers, for the forwards and backs respectively, both were a force to be reckoned with on offense all day long. Severn look to travel to Northern Virginia after their bye, to take on NOVA and make it three wins on the trot, kickoff is at 1pm on 10/20.

Tries: J. Batucan (1), M. Blimmel (1-2), Z. Lammers (1), C.Gotimer (1-3)

Conversions: E. Dronberger (2 of 4; 12 of 14)

Roster:

#1- Taylor, Dustin, #2- Kirk, Brandon, #3- Maldonado, Richard, #4- Paul, William, #5- McCarty, John, #6- Stratchko, Nicholas, #7- Benson, James, #8- Blimmel, Michael, #9- Dondero, Adam, #10- Dronberger, Erik, #11- Lammers, Zach, #12- Gotimer, Harry, #13- Baxter, Matthew, #14- Wygal, William, #15- Gotimer, Colin, #16- Greenstreet, Jr. Milton, #17- Denton, Philip, #18- Reece, Logan, #19- Swayze, Derek, #20- Gavigan, Taylor, #21- Bilger, Cullen, #22- Long, Stephen, #23- Batucan, Jeremiah

Redemption! Honey Badgers Defeat Chesapeake

Redemption. It was the only word on the minds of the Honey Badgers as they prepped for the contest against Baltimore Chesapeake. After a disappointing loss to the long time rival last fall, Severn River knew they had to focus to not let their nerves get the better of them this past Saturday. While missing Captain Lenni and long time player Sweet Dee in the forwards and with Rayne, one of their key backs, out with a knee injury, the Honey Badgers were a little apprehensive heading into Saturday’s match. You wouldn’t know it, however, from the way they played.

The first half began with a strong start from the forwards with Todo once again leading the charge and scoring early off of a penalty. The Honey Badgers added two more tries before Chesapeake would answer in the 35th minute while Tiffany stood in the sin bin for the team after multiple offsides infractions. Severn River answered with a strong series of back line passes that ended in the hands of Scrappy for a try to finish the first half of play. Going into the half up 28-7, the Honey Badgers may have been feeling a little too confident when they retook the field for the second half.

Chesapeake had two quick tries to start the half as the Severn coaching staff started to pace. The team gathered themselves and refocused their rucking and defensive lines to regain control of the ball. Todo added two more tries to the board, one off another penalty and the other from solid offloads. Charlee continued to kick well and Severn began to pull away. Chesapeake added one more try off of a 5 meter scrum and converted to bring the score to 40-24, but that was the last of their offense. With two tries in the final ten minutes from Burris, the Honey Badgers secured their 3 - 0 record.

The team win was speckled with an outstanding try from Aly who kicked the ball to herself, twice and managed to touch it down in the zone. Captain Casey had some excellent defensive plays and Marshall maintained excellent defensive control and communication with her wings. Many forwards stepped up to play the full 80 minutes (and made sure everyone knew it at the end of the match) and without their commitment, this match could have gone a very different way. With composure, camaraderie, and kick ass mentality, the Honey Badgers are making a statement this season.

Tries:

K.Todorovich (3), T.Paul (1), A.McCarty (1), H.Whiteley (1), L.Burris (2)

Conversions: C.Bryan (5 for 8)

Severn Men take down Frederick in Home Opener

Severn River Men finally had their home opener, after starting the season on a two week road trip. And what a difference home field advantage makes. Severn hosted a familiar foe; Frederick RFC and were able to secure their first win of the young season, prevailing 47-10. Severn’s forwards got the scoring started, with some gritty pick and go tries, inside 5 meters from Prop, Rich Maldonado and Number 8, Mike Blimmel. Frederick fought back and answered with two tries of their own, with one a particularly impressive 65 meter run from Frederick outside center Jacob Fields. Those would be the last points scored by Frederick on the day, with Severn following up to score 35 unanswered points. The boys from Annapolis spread the ball around all match long, with 6 different starters finding the try zone. Hooker, Brandon Kirk and Outside Center, Jon Sage scored their first tries in 15’s for Severn, as both had industrious, 80 minute shifts on Saturday. Erik “Punchy” Dronberger kept Frederick in the distance, converting 6 of 7 conversions during the match. Severn’s pack continued their dominance in the second half with tries from Flanker, Nick Stratchko, Maldonado and Kirk.  For his brace of tries, Maldonado took home man of the match honors for the forwards, while returning veteran scrum-half, Adam Dondero, received it for the backs.  Severn are on a bye this week, but look to make it two in around against North Bay at home on October 6th at 1pm.

Tries: R. Maldonado (2), M. Blimmel (1), J. Sage (1), C.Gotimer (1-2), N. Stratchko (1), B. Kirk (1)

Conversions: E. Dronberger (6 of 7)