Summer 7's Season: Sun’s Out, Guns Out
Contributions By: Lenni Ferreira, Milton Greenstreet and Jenn Fenzel
Severn River’s men’s and women's 7s seasons looked to be a successful heading into June. Numbers out to practice were fantastic, with attendance on Tuesday and Thursday nights regularly exceeding 50 people out on the pitch. You could find players rolling up to the pitch and jumping into a line of men’s and women’s players all mixed together, waiting for one 7s scrimmage to end so they can get in next. The club's men’s and women’s sides work so closely together; a lot of the behind the scenes administration is a cooperative effort, and social events are shared as well, but the 7s season gives them a unique opportunity to play rugby together. Everyone mixing in for touch 7s is an incredible way to break up some monotony, meet some new friends, and become better rugby players. Supporting each other from the sidelines at the home pitch during 15s is great, but the game schedules rarely align for shared men’s and women’s tournaments. Club Vice President; Lindsay Morris agrees that, “the best thing about 7s is that our men’s and women’s team go together and we have built in cheering squads.” The tides of a game can turn quickly with only 14 minutes to play. Lindsay adds that “through wins and losses you can feel the support from your Severn Family.”
With such strong attendance at practices, the Severn men were able to field two competitive sides for the first time in several years. Unfortunately, with many of those numbers being inexperienced 7s players, the strong turnouts did not result in many wins during the first tournament of the season; NOVA’s Battlefield 7s. The first side went winless on the day, entering the open division and facing off against eventual National Champions NAV’s second side, as well as host NOVA’s 2 nd side. SR kept it tight against NOVA II but ended up finishing 7th out of 8 in the open division. SR’s second side had similar growing pains, with many on the squad playing in their first ever 7s tournament. The second side had a tight one score loss to Washington RFC’s second side and a win against Prince William County in the final game of the day. Some bright spots during the tough afternoon were 7s rookies Adrian Rivera and Pat Fenn, both scoring tries and playing well all day long in the face of the tough matchups.
Next on the schedule was a trip up to Harrisburg, PA for Harrisburg RFC’s annual tournament. Only able to field the first side for this outing, SR’s record didn’t improve much. The fellas only managed one win in four, with two tough losses to Reading RFC and Old Gaelic. Several injuries on the day didn’t help, with longtime SR 7s players Rich Maldonado and Mike “Butters” Gibson going down with knee injuries early in the day; Gibson’s being so severe it required surgery. Club captain Steve Long and former captain Erik Dronberger kept up the fight all day and both turned in great performances. Rookie Lucas Kuriawa was also a bright spot, showing he belonged with the first side with some tough tackling and positional versatility.
After two dismal performances, Severn’s fortune turned around in their third tournament of the season, Baltimore-Chesapeake’s Rites of Summer 7s. The first side went undefeated 3-0 in pool play, notching wins over West Potomac, NOVA III, and host Baltimore-Chesapeake. This won them a place in the Cup Final, facing off against a tough invitational team, the Thunder Crocs. The Crocs boasted strong players from several different D1 teams in the region and would prove too tough a match for the SR boys, with the Crocs sneaking by for the win 19-12. The pivotal point in the game was a yellow card for the Crocs that Severn couldn’t capitalize on, and the Crocs eventually scored during the card, short-handed. The second place finish was the best result so far in the season for SR Men. Center Jake Davis and Navy Rugby’s Ted Chapman had particularly fantastic days on the field for the green and blue.
The last tournament of the season was in Malvern, PA. Hosted by Schuykill River out of Philadelphia, this tournament looked to be tricky for SR, given all the injuries racked up over the 7s season. The boys only took ten players to Pennsylvania, which led to some interesting situations during the day. But SR fought valiantly, going 2-1 in pool play with wins over NOVA III and Lehigh Valley to make the knockout stage. But during the sweltering pool matches, SR lost three players due to injury and were down to seven total players. The brain trust in charge of the team decided to retire for the day, forfeiting the semifinal, rather than risk more injuries in 100+ F degree heat. Highlights on the day included big Lock John Giovingo scoring multiple 40+ yard tries, longtime 7s stalwart Milton Greenstreet, running the show at #10 all day and James Park, UMBC alum, filling in at hooker with some big hits.
The men's team decided to make the 7s awards an annual event, after they were received well by the team last year. The biggest prizes of the night went to Adrian Rivera for Most Valuable Player, Lucas Kuriawa for Rookie of the Year and Pat Fenn for Most Likely to be Capped by the USA in 2023 (rewarding Pat’s call up to Chula Vista for training during the summer). A full list of the awards given out is below. All in all, it was a middling season for the green and blue, but if some of the young talent on display this summer returns next year, 2023 will be a banner 7s season for Severn River.
2022 Most Valuable Player – Adrian Rivera
Best Try Zone Dance/General Vibing – Mike Divver
Best 90 second shift – Erik Dronberger
Best F*cking Hit of the season – John Giovingo
2022 Iron Man Award – James Nutland
Most likely to be capped by the USA in 2023 – Pat Fenn
2022 Rookie of the Year – Lucas Kuriawa
After a very intense spring 15s season for the women, many Honey Badgers took a few weeks to rest and relax before heading back over to the home pitch for 7s practices. Unlike the separate and structured 15s practices in the fall and spring, the 7s season has a more casual feel.
The Severn Family was happy to add new women members this season. Whether they were coming out of retirement, a college player looking for a place to land over the summer or an athlete totally new to the sport, all were welcomed with open arms. Andie Coutoulakis joined the squad this summer with no rugby knowledge at all and ended the summer earning the Hardest Hitter award. She was glad to join during the summer, explaining that “having never played rugby before, starting the game with 7s was just what I needed.” Andie got right into the mix at practice and learned the rules from her teammates along the way. She was “able to learn from her teammates while doing ‘on the job training’.”
The Honey Badgers played at Harrisburg 7s, Rites of Summer, and Schuylkill 7s. Captain Hope Wasserman recounts that, “Harrisburg was a great starter tournament. We didn’t get the results we wanted but we played amazing and had a great time.” A new player to the squad, Angela Moore, scored her first try at Harrisburg and of course, everyone loves to see a Zulu warrior.
The Rites of Summer, a tournament in Baltimore, was up next. For a team based out of Annapolis, Severn River has a huge contingent of Baltimore residents who felt right at home in the big city. Both the men's and women's 7s squads played some good rugby in a little bit of summer rain. The women’s team finished the day in fourth place by default because they forgot to stick around for the third place match (oops).
For the last tournament of the summer, a small squad of Honey Badgers traveled up to Pennsylvania. Captain Hope noted that the “tournament was awesome. With low numbers we still showed up and showed out.” Another Zulu try was scored by Lindsay Morris, and any day with a first try on the team is a good day.
The fun in the sun has now come to a close, but 15s season is looking bright. The Honey Badgers have new players with new skills, returning players with more experience under their belts, and some players that took a much-needed full summer hiatus... many of the tight five players and the over-30 crowd went this route. Unfortunately, the women's team had to say goodbye to its college summer players as they headed back to their school pitches for the fall, but Severn will absolutely keep up with their rugby seasons from afar. As for the players that get to stick around for 15s, they undoubtedly agree with Andie when she noted that, “all of the summer practices and the games got me ready and hyped for 15s!” The scrums will be back to eight players, the lineouts will be longer, and everyone will be all too conscious of passing the 14-minute mark during the first 80-minute game back.
Team Mom – Zoi Wachtel
Top Scorer – Taylor McLean
Cum Back Queen – Caroline Heimerl (accepted by her Husband)
Most Improved – Angela Moore
Biggest Shit Talker – Lindsay Morris
John Deer Award – Bri Leonard
Speed Demon – Riz Burrell
Sly Dog – Maddie Steele
Hocus Pocus Will Cut A Throatcus- Victoria Zito
Hardest Hitter – Andie Coutoulakis
Hotter Than Kendal Jenner – Lena Hanrahan
Celebrity Guest – Lenni Ferreira
Bad Bitch Award – Maria Russo
Ankle Breaker – Masha Romanchak (C)
Slam A Bitch and Sit Down – Hope Wasserman (C)
Miss Steal Yo Girl – Hope Wasserman (C)
Election Results Are In!
Your 2022-2023 season officers are listed below. Congratulations to everyone!
E-board:
Club President: Mike Blimmel
Club VP: Lindsay Morris
Club Treasurer: Steve Long
Club Secretary: Colin Gotimer
Mens Team P-Board:
President: Nick Stratchko
Governor: Jake Davis
Vice Governor: John Giovingo
Treasurer: Mark Farmer
Match Secretary: Joe Milluzzo
Field and Equipment: Mike Nichols
Social Chair: Mike Gibson
Social Media Manager: Parker Hackett
Captain: Steve Long
Womens Team V-Board:
President: Shanna Davidson
VP: Maria Russo
Treasurer: Lindsay Morris
Field and Equipment: Nicole McIntyre
Match Secretary: Sammi Bottorf
Social Chair: Victoria Zito
Social Media Manager: Lenni Ferreira
Alumni Relations: Katie Turner
DEI Chair: Lexi Decker
Captains: Hope Wasserman & Masha Romanchak
Mike Blimmel (Club President)
Lindsay Morris (Club VP)
Steve Long (Club Treasurer)
Colin Gotimer (Club Secretary)
Men’s Team P-Board
(Left to Right) Mark Famer (Treasurer), Jake Davis (Governor), Mike Gibson (Social Chair), Mike Nichols (Field & Equipment), Steve Long (Captain), John Giovingo (Vice Governor), Parker Hackett (Social Media Manager), Nick Stratchko (President)
Joe Milluzzo (Match Secretary)
Women’s Team V-Board
(Left to Right, Top) Sammi Bottorf (Match Secretary), Shanna Davidson (President), Lenni Ferreira (Social Media), Lexi Decker (DEI Chair), Maria Russo (VP), Masha Romanchak (Captain), Lindsay Morris (Treasurer).
(Left to Right, Bottom) Hope Wasserman (Captain), Nicole McIntyre (Field & Equipment) , Victoria Zito (Social Chair).
Katie Turner (Alumni Relations)
Aldo Karamoy's Journey with the DC Cavalry
By: Rachel Priddy
Severn River’s own Aldo Karamoy has recently earned the opportunity to play with Pro Rugby League Club, the DC Cavalry. The Cavalry’s home field is the Revolution Sportsplex in Leesburg, VA. The league is called NARL (North American Rugby League). For its inaugural season, the league includes four US-based teams (DC Cavalry, Atlanta Rhinos , Cleveland Rugby League, NY Rugby League) and one Canada-based team (Toronto Wolfpack).
For those of us not familiar with Rugby League, it is a 80 min full-contact sport played by two teams of thirteen players, not fifteen like Rugby Union. Rugby League limits possession to six tackles per set. After that, the possession has to switch to the opposing team. Another difference is the defending team must retreat 10 meters after every tackle. In Rugby League, when the ball goes out of play, it typically requires a scrum to restart the game, not a line-out. Scrums are also 6 players per team, not 8. Rugby League scoring is also a bit different: four points (not five) are awarded for a try, two for a conversion, two (not three) for a penalty kick, and one (not three) for a drop goal.
I sat down with Aldo to talk a bit about his journey.
1. How did you get involved with the Professional Rugby League Team, DC Cavalry?
“I got discovered when the DC Cavalry's owner, coach and captains watched the USA Rugby League championship game on Youtube Livestream. I played with the Delaware Blackfoxes, we lost vs Tampa, but they said I "have a great motor and played an amazing defense". They were really interested in watching me in person, so they attended the Capital Selects game. I played really well vs the Philly All-Star team, on both defense and offense. I managed to score two tries in 1 half. They offered me a spot on the roster after that game.”
2. How has your experience been so far?
“The experience has been great and challenging in a good way. I get to play with teammates that have prior professional experiences in MLR, pro competition overseas, and represent the USA Rugby League National team. So, every practice we push each other and compete to be on the travel/starting roster. We had our first home preseason game in May, where I earned the start at #13. We won 74-6. I scored a try and played solid defense. I am very excited to be on this journey. I am getting to play at the pro level with the DC Cavalry, and am also able to represent Severn River Rugby along the way!”
3. How did you get started playing rugby for Severn River?
“When I was at Frostburg State University, all 4 of my roommates/teammates played during summer and grew up playing with Severn River. I heard a lot of great things about the club, so when I moved to Baltimore, I wanted to check it out. Been here ever since, and never looked back!”
4. What do you like most about Severn River as a club?
“I love the family and community feel at the club, both on and off the field. From going on a mountain biking trip with the old boys and rugby trips to Savannah, to just hanging out and talking about each other's feelings with the boys.”
5. How has playing with Severn River helped develop your rugby skills?
“River had a great coaching staff with decades of experience. The love for the club that I and everyone else shares, motivates me to put in extra work outside of practice. That has definitely helped me become a better rugby player.”
The Triebel Cup Remains with Severn River
Contributions from: Milton Greenstreet, Tina Schafer, and Rachel Priddy
For over a decade, the Severn River and Frederick Rugby clubs have come together once a year to battle it out in memory of fallen Frederick rugger, Tobin “Trooper” Triebel. Triebel passed away on Friday Nov. 7, 2008 after being struck by a motor vehicle while jogging. The Triebel Cup was born the following spring: a three-game match-up, usually consisting of a women’s match, men’s match and old boys/B-side match. This year, the cup remained with Severn, who went 3 for 3 on the day.
On Saturday, June 11th, the Severn River men and women headed to Wild Geese Farm in Dickerson, Maryland to claim their right to keep the cup for another year. Per usual, the women’s match was first on the docket.
The Severn River women’s team came with a strong lineup and a good mix of new and veteran players. The Severn offense was quick and made smart decisions with offloads. The defense kept the match to a 49-0 shutout. Standouts for the Honey Badgers included Lolita Galdones and rookie Bri Leonard. A special shout out goes to visiting rookie Riz Burrell, with two tries in their first match with Severn River.
The Severn Men kicked off after the women's team sealed their victory, but not before the Maryland State Police presented their arms and colors in honor of Frederick's fallen Tobin “Trooper” Triebel. The solemn moment is normally accompanied by a singer performing the national anthem after the officers present the colors, but there was no performer on Saturday. Instead, in a rather touching moment, all players on the field and fans in attendance spontaneously decided to honor Triebel by singing the national anthem together. It was a wonderful way to begin the men's action on the day.
The men in green and blue wasted no time getting on the score sheet with early tries by number 8, Mike Blimmel, newcomer center Adrian Rivera, and club Captain Erik Dronberger. Rivera began his rugby career in Annapolis at a blistering pace, scoring a hat trick before halftime, he added a 4th in the second half. Dronberger, in his final game as Captain, had an almost perfect day from Out-half. Accurate from the tee, as well as scoring a brace of tries, one of which was a fantastic chip and re-gather, had a great signoff to his year at the helm.
Frederick fought back at times, with familiar faces Scott Wade at 10 and Jon Haney at 12 doing some damage. But Severn proved to be too much to be reckoned with, running up the score late in the second half. With some lung-busting runs from lock Parker Hackett and rookie winger Pat Fenn, Severn put the game comfortably out of reach well before the final whistle.
The Frederick Old Boys had a little better luck against Severn's second side, going up early 12-0 on the Killer Bs. Frederick's alumni were breaking the line regularly with some violent running. Severn fought back, starting with flanker Jake Stahl turning a crash ball inside Severn's own 5 meter line into a 65 meter gallop, and started to turn the tide for Annapolis' second side. This match was back and forth throughout, and Severn had enlisted the help of some UMBC alumni to help fill the ranks of the squad to get the job done. The Bs were able to hold off a last surge from Frederick in the dying minutes of the match to come away with the win.
Men of the match for the day were Prop James Nutland, who managed to play every single minute for Severn in both matches, making outstanding contributions in both games, and the aforementioned Rivera, whose name was all over the score sheet.
The Cup is now on display at Stan and Joe’s Saloon in Annapolis til next year.
The Honey Badgers Take on Buffalo
By: Scrappy Whiteley
Tape. Check. Mouthguard. Check. Fresh cleats, or cleats barely hanging on by a thread. Check. It was an unusual Friday: vans were being loaded, the rucking pads, rugby balls, and personal luggage stacked in an exhausting game of Tetris. Anticipation crackled through the air; the excitement was palpable. The Severn River Honey Badgers had been working hard all season outscoring their opponents 255-14 with head coaches Dolla Harmse and William Delsing at the helm. They pushed through some adversity, facing cancelled matches, a disappointing performance against Philly, and misplaced jerseys. Yet the feeling that this was going to be the year to get it done was always at the forefront. The Honey Badgers’ road to National-level competition began at the Regional round in Buffalo, New York on April 30th and 31st.
In the weeks leading up to Regionals the Badgers received an outpouring of support for their fundraising efforts from Stan and Joe’s Saloon, the SRRFC Alumni Association, Black Eagle Defense, as well as a number of individual donors, totaling over $4,000.
The first team standing in Severn’s way was the New Haven Old Black Rugby Football Club out of Connecticut. New Haven was a team Severn had never faced, and they had just been bumped from Division 3 to Division 2, playing a more competitive schedule that saw them earning victories over strong teams. That Saturday morning, right out of the gate, New Haven proved themselves to be feisty and quick, hitting hard and pushing back. “We saw a really fast New Haven team. Our offensive game play really started to click, and our defense was strong,” said co-captain Tina Schafer. After a start that required a few adjustments against New Haven’s aggressive defense, Severn started playing their game and piled on the points. Katie Marshall took full advantage of her opportunities to kick while Erin Gallagher and Shelly Freeman made it difficult for New Haven to keep up with Severn’s speed. The Honey Badgers closed the day with a 54-7 victory over New Haven.
“Day one we had a mission; there were so many factors that got us to that day and were motivating us to pull through. Once the game started, we played all 80 minutes as one and showed everyone what Severn River was all about,” said co-captain Kate Todorovich.
After earning the win and a chance to play in the regional championship match, the team spent the night soaking in store bought kiddie pool ice baths, stretching their muscles, and preparing for what the next day would bring.
Rain. Wind. Muddy fields. Day two brought less than desirable conditions that limited speed and the ability to use the full width of the field. Providence was a strong team, and they came out hard. Lolita Galdones and Masha Romanchak lead a solid defense that shut down one of Providence’s leading try scorers. The Severn pack was able to utilize their strength in the maul and break through to score one of the two tries of the whole match. Erin Gallagher-Johnson touched it down for the Honey Badgers.
“It was a tough, brutal, muddy contest. We were executing our game plan well on both sides of the ball, but we fell short due to the impressive poaching by Providence… we played incredibly well, but the score went to them in a very close game,” said Schafer.
Unfortunately, the magic faded too soon, and Providence defeated Severn River 8-5 in a grueling, defensive battle relying on kicks for points to finish it out. “We fought every minute of that game,” said Todorovich, “In the end, it just wasn’t our time… now we have all the motivation to work and push for that win next year!”
STATS:
Saturday, April 30th vs New Haven: 54-7 win
Tries: Kate Todorovich-1, Lenni Ferreira-1, Masha Romanchak-1, Katie Marshall-1, Shelly Freeman-1, Erin Gallagher-Johnson-3
Kicks: Masha Romanchak- 7 for 8
Sunday, April 31st vs Providence: 5-8 Loss
Tries: Erin Gallagher-Johnson- 1
Kicks: Masha Romanchak- 0 for 2
Severn River Men at the Cherry Blossom Tournament in DC
By: Erik Dronberger
The morning dew was still dripping off the overgrown grass at the Polo Grounds in Poolesville, MD. A pleasant April morning as Severn River Men rolled up for their 9:00 kick off against a makeshift team of UMBC and Baltimore D1 players; the Thunder Crocs. The pitches weren’t much of a pitch at all, but more of a meadow, with foot tall grass being painted as the hosts rushed to set up the makeshift pitch. With questionable playing conditions, Severn River decided they didn’t drive to the middle of nowhere for nothing, and with that the goal posts went up at the turn of 9:00, the tournament was underway.
Severn River came out jittery, and let up the first try to the Thunder Crocs. The lads fought back, striving down the pitch, with strong runs from rookie Ryan Simpkins and John Ureste. After stints of great phases and five minutes inside the Thunder Crocs 22, the lads couldn’t break into the try zone and ultimately lost the match 12-0. The score didn’t reflect the match, River was unlucky not to get on the scoreboard.
As the sun rose, the lads had a few hours to kill, so John “Gio” Giovanni had the opportunity to show everyone his Marlon Brando impersonation. But after 5 minutes of telling everyone he had an offer we couldn’t refuse, Gio was made to sleep with the fishes.
The second match was against Norfolk, who Severn River last played roughly 9 years ago, losing 70ish -7. Norfolk came with a strong mix of their D1 & D3 side, but Severn River’s blend of D3 & D4 sides proved to be too sexy for the Virginia based side. Severn River’s high octane offense ignited from the kick off, as Erik “Punchy” Dronberger created space for the likes of Rich Maldonado, Gio, and Milton Greenstreet to do work. With two quick tries from Sam “Hot Pants” Leone, the lads were on their way to a comfortable win. As the match continued, we saw powerful runs from the likes of Taylor Gavigan, Jake Davis, Steve Long and Mike Blimmel. Severn finished the match with a 42-15 victory.
The win rejuvenated the spirits of Severn River and gave them a chance to take 3rd place in the tournament. All that stood in their way was a Baltimore Chesapeake side that had another strong mix of D1 & D3 players. As Severn River made their way over to the pitch, BC stopped them, and suggested a boat race to determine the winner. Unfortunately for BC, Severn River came to play and declined their offer. At least it seemed unfortunate for BC, until they came out hot and scored two quick tries, but with a cheeky pass from Milton, Pat Fenn scored at the brink of halftime, to give the boys hope.
Severn River came out of the half, grinding out crash balls, with Mike “Nips” Nichols, Tommy Sitar, Jackson Holtzman getting BC on the back foot. However, a quick turnover and the BC wing slipped through the Severn defense. With only 5 minutes remaining, the match looked all but over with BC in the lead at 14-5. The BC winger sprinting towards a certain try, if not for the determination of Pat Fenn he would have made it. Pat “Never Give Up” Fenn chased the winger from one touch line to the the other, and forced a knock on at the try line. Severn River wasn’t dead yet.
The next set of plays saw Jackson Holtzman pierce through a hole created by some side stepping by Punchy, and quick ball movement from Cullen Bilger. And bing, bang, boom, Pat with another try. Severn River 10, BC 14. Two minutes remaining, Severn River believing, but BC wasn’t about to let up, as they won the ball after kicking off and drove down the pitch. A great tackle from Steve Long, and an infringement from BC gave Severn River a penalty in their own 22. Without a beat, Milton new who to get the ball to, and with a quick tap and quicker pass, got the ball into the hands of Pat. With 80 meters to go, Pat hit the line running and bursts through a big hole. Only the over growth of the grass was sure to take him down, but no, the BC full back was on the chase, and tripped up Pat two meters short, but without a wrap, Pat kept up the momentum and trotted in for a try. SEVERN RIVER WIN 17 - 14. A dramatic come back, and a tournament that put Severn River’s heart full on display.
Banquet and Hall of Fame Induction: February 5th, 2022
Another SRRFC banquet is in the books. Amazingly enough, Hellas in Millersville allowed us back again this year for some much-needed fun after COVID shut down last year's banquet (and all other fun things). We came, we ate, we drank too much, and danced just enough.
As always, the current teams started the awards ceremony by slinging out some well-deserved derbies, pins and rings to the most valuable players and heroes of the club. There were a lot of new faces represented in this year's round of awards, including 2nd generation SR rugger Jackson Holtzman, who took ‘Rookie of the Year’ home, and Brianna Niewinski who was named ‘Most Valuable Forward’.
The YAD award went back to the women’s team this year. For liability purposes, you have to be in attendance to get the full story, but the winning story involves too much liquor, a tarp, and a house fire. Great job, Maria…You’re a Dick.
We also had a new class of Hall of Famers inducted this year. We are very appreciative of all the inductees' families that made it out, and for Steve Compo and Ralph Norton for coming from out of state to make it. The women inducted their first Hall of Famer, team co-founder Meredith McAlister Kraus. It was truly a memorable and deserving class, as evidenced by the crowds of alumni, some of whom traveled from across the country, to honor the inductees. Check out the website ‘Alumni Assoc’ page for a few words from some of the recipients.
Til we meet again next year Severn River Rugby Family…
Award Summary:
Women’s Awards:
Most Valuable Back- Rayne Trouwborst
Most Valuable Forward- Brianna Niewinski
Steel Tits- Casey Hartzell
Most Improved- Victoria Ann Zito
Rookie of the Year- Maria Russo-Greer
Unsung Hero- Shanna Davidson
Men’s Awards:
Most Valuable Back- Jake Davis
Most Valuable Forward- Rich Maldonado
Unsung Hero- Mark Farmer
Rookie of the Year- Jackson Holtzman
Most Valuable Back (D4) – Larry Grassi
Most Valuable Forward (D4) – Bear Carter
YAD: Maria Russo-Greer
Hall of Fame Class of 2021-2022:
Bill Beans
Steve Compo
Tom “Dr. Doom” Guidotti
Meredith McAlister Kraus
(Left to Right) Shanna Davidson- Unsung Hero, Casey Hartzell -Steel Tits, Maria Russo-Greer- Rookie of the Year/ YAD, Victoria Ann Zito- Most Improved, Brianna Niewinski- Most Valuable Forward
Rayne Trouwborst- Most Valuable Back
(Left to Right) Jake Davis- Most Valuable Back, Rich Maldonado- Most Valuable Forward, Mark Farmer- Unsung Hero, Jackson Holtzman- Rookie of the Year
Larry Grassi- Most Valuable Back D4
Bear Carter- Most Valuable Forward D4
Meredith McAlister Kraus- Hall of Fame Class of 2021-2022
Bill Beans- Hall of Fame Class of 2021-2022
Steve Compo- Hall of Fame Class of 2021-2022
Tom “Dr. Doom” Guidotti- Hall of Fame Class of 2021-2022
SRRFC Hall of Fame 2021-2022 Class
Bill Beans
Steve Compo
Tom "Dr. Doom" Guidotti
Meredith McAlister Kraus
Bill Beans
Leadership is a contact sport. Legacy is the mark you leave behind. James Kerr’s book, Legacy chronicles the All Blacks philosophy, addressing the importance of leadership and legacy in achieving success. Legacy leaders are essential to the life and sustainability of a club. They influence individual players and guide the team’s ultimate direction. Bill Beans is that legacy leader.
Bill was one of the original “first 15” in 1978. Arriving during Severn River’s founding season, he brought a wealth of experience and talent to the pitch and a passion and determination for growth and development for our fledgling club. His contributions to the club continued for over a decade.
Bill was a second row who not only knew every nuance of his position in depth but was keenly aware of the importance and fit of every position on the team. Bill ended his career just a few years before lifting jumpers in the line-out was permitted. Getting the ball cleanly to the scrumhalf required a skill at both jumping and being sure handed for a second row.
Timing and ball awareness came naturally to Bill. Those who played with him were continually amazed at his uncanny ability to get the ball to the scrumhalf without catching it first. He perfected a skill of having the incoming ball barely ricocheting off just a few fingers yet guiding it effortlessly in a perfect pass to the scrumhalf. He was a master at this technique.
In addition to being a skilled player, Bill was the team’s Coach, Selector and was critical in securing and preparing the fields for games and practices. He was a teacher to new players and a mentor to more seasoned teammates.
Bill introduced two traditions that Severn River still enjoys today. The inaugural banquet involved thanking every member of the team with a personalized certificate of appreciation. Some were serious, such has MVP’s, Hardest Hitter, Rookie of Year, and Unsung Hero. Most were funny. Following the second season, Bill volunteered to take over this portion of the banquet. Always looking for ways to acknowledge good play on the field and instill competition, Bill separated the Most Valuable Back, Most Valuable Forward, and Unsung Hero from the rest of the awards. This is where the Black Derby made its first appearance and started a special tradition that is now in its fifth decade.
Bill also was the originator of the coveted Leather Balls Award. This honor is given to a Severn River teammate who has gone beyond being a skilled player and has contributed to the sustainability, direction, and future of the club in ways that set them apart from their teammates. Bill was clear that this is not necessarily an annual award but should be given only when earned and warranted. Literally, hundreds of players have worn the Severn River Rugby Club Jersey over that last over 44 years. Less than 25 have been a recipient of the Leather Balls Award.
It will come as know surprise that a few seasons after the introduction of these two traditions, the team honored Bill with a Derby for Most Valuable Forward and presented him with a Leather Balls Award for his many contributions both on and off the pitch.
The New Zealand All Blacks have 15 Principles that they embrace. The last two deal with sustainability and legacy. Through Bill’s legacy Severn River Rugby continues to carry on and prosper. We will always be grateful to Bill for his legacy leadership. On behalf of all past and current players, please welcome Bill Beans into the Severn River Rugby Club’s Hall of Fame, Class of 2022!
Steve Compo
When Steve Compo first stepped on to a rugby pitch, you knew he was going to be an impact player on the field. The athletic skills he brought from his wrestling background played right into Steve quickly becoming an A-side flanker. He was a tough defender and mastered the art of stealing the ball in rucks and mauls. Steve was adamant about staying fit, attending all practices, and touring whenever possible. He made sure to hold his teammates to those expectations as well. Steve was a regular participant in the Saranac Lake tournament (insert one of many inappropriate stories here) and was a member of the 7s team that played in Trinidad. Over the years, Steve was awarded Most Valuable Forward, Unsung Hero, and the Leather Balls Award.
It was only later in his career that we realized his passion for rugby extended to making Severn River Rugby a premier club to come play for. Steve held several club positions: Communications Chair, Club VP, and most impactful; Club President for several years. Steve spent countless hours working to make Severn River a better club. One of his early missions during his leadership was to find Severn a more permanent home. He built a relationship with the American Legion, took their rundown baseball field, and helped develop it into what most of us consider to be “the best field in the union.” Steve convinced the union and the referee society to invest in Severn River, just as he had. He secured a $100k loan with the union (first of its kind), to put in a sprinkler system, sod the field, and add professional uprights. Steve also insured Severn’s future and their investment, by negotiating a 10-year lease with the American Legion. Steve viewed running the club like running a business, so he worked hard to make Severn financially secure. He worked with ACME Bar & Grill and its beer and liquor distributors to lock in financial support. That included sponsorships from PBR & Southern Comfort. He also coordinated the relationship with the Baltimore Ravens, which brought $30k per year in its infancy with the food stand. The Ravens fundraiser continues to bring in thousands of dollars a year to the club.
Steve also believed that the development of local youth programs was literally the future of our club. He worked with Pat Walsh promoting and demonstrating rugby during gym classes at local high schools and coached with Mike O’Brien at Arden Youth Rugby. He also worked with Northwestern Mutual to acquire 350 jerseys for Anne Arundel County youth programs.
Recruitment was another big item on Steve’s agenda. The recruitment of long-term men’s captain, Mike Bertoni, was one of his proudest accomplishments. Mike Bertoni had this to say, “He had some email blast he’d sent to the contact for every college rugby team, probably on the east coast. I wish I had saved it. I was the contact at Potsdam, so I got it and responded to him... he put me in touch with some jobs. About a year later, I am in Maryland and ready to get back into playing rugby and I give Steve a call. He gets me to the legion for practice that night. I have a blast and when it’s time for drinks afterwards, I tell him I can’t make it in because I have to get home because my dog needs to go out. Compo’s response: “What’s your dog have to do with me?” – logic I couldn’t defeat, so I went into the Legion for the first time that Thursday night and was completely hooked on the whole club by the time I walked out. A few weeks later, I found myself unemployed. Steve had an air duct cleaning company, so he gave me a job. To say I worked for Steve is a mis-statement; he employed me when I was at a really low point so I could stay around and play for Severn River while I figured my shit out. He did it for me and countless others. He was and is the most generous person I’ve ever met. He did anything and everything for the club and everyone in it.”
Steve has long represented and advocated for solidarity between the men's and women's teams. He didn’t want to hear sentences that started with “the men’s team” or “the women’s team;” he wanted to hear people’s ideas for the future of “The Club.” “One club,” he would repeat. “We are one club.”
Steve truly bleeds blue and green.
Tom "Dr. Doom" Guidotti
“It’s better to burn out, than to fade away”. When Neil Young wrote those lyrics in 1979, he must have been channeling Dr. Doom. Those of us who had the privilege of being around Doc, knew that he lived life “all in”. To some, he is a ghost or a legend of someone that did outlandish things at outrageous times. Others will know Tom as a father and husband. Some will know Doom as a fellow police officer. Opposing front row players knew him as one of the best Hookers in the old Potomac Rugby Union. Most of us knew him as a friend, a coach, and a very fine rugby player.
Tom “Dr. Doom” Guidotti was born in 1949. He graduated from Bladensburg High and headed to Kansas State to play linebacker. He returned to his Cheverly home area and served as a police officer for the District of Columbia Police Department, where he remained for most of his Severn River playing days. Doc came to Severn River after a successful stint with Washington Irish where he turned his football skills into violent artistry in mauls and rucks and master classes in front row play.
Doom joined Severn River for the fall season of 1981 and played and coached with Severn River until his untimely death in 1994. During his playing days, he was named Most Valuable Forward (1983), won the Leather Balls award (1991) and served as a selector from 1988 through 1994. Doc was a key player on Severn Rivers’ ERU Championship and the club’s ascension to the “A” Division. Doom turned to coaching in 1989 when he became an assistant to Brian O’Meara and was elected head coach in 1991 and 1992, coaching alongside Ralph Norton.
As a player, Doc was known for “always being in pursuit” and would remind the backs that he’d always be there … and he was. He had an uncanny ability to win loose balls with his physical play. His mentoring of younger players would influence an entire generation of Severn River pack players. He constantly pushed his pack peers to run, lift and get fit and he happily passed along his nuanced front row skills. Doc introduced many of us to “Doom Jangles” as a component of his fitness routine.
Dr. Doom was Severn River, through and through. Always to be seen with his Severn blue jacket or Hawaiian shirts, he toured England in 1989 and Barbados in 1992 with the club. He had a way of mentoring and coaching those that needed love and affection and kicking your ass if you just needed an ass kicking! Those of us that played with and knew Doc have never really recovered from his passing.
Talking about Doc and not reflecting on his colorful approach to life would sort of be missing the point of who he was. He was full of life. He played hard and lived hard. In a “never forget this moment”, he introduced a few Severn ruggers to the life of a DC cop! He was the life of every party, everywhere. His singing was animated and legendary. His performances at weddings, parties or any club social gathering are mythical. His home-brew may not have been award winning, but it was memorable! He could be found waiting for a match under the bleachers after one of his night shifts, ready to shed his police uniform and put on the Severn River number 2. He could be found trying to talk a ref into letting him play with a cast on his broken arm. He was the guy that “everyone” called a friend. He was the person you could never not have a good time with. He was larger than life and although his life was short, he lived it to the fullest.
Dr. Doom was a dad, a husband, a cop, a bow-legged fabulous rugby player, a coach, and most of all...a friend. He had a huge impact on Severn River Rugby on and off the field.
Three cheers for Dr. Doom!
Thanks to the Severn River HOF Committee and alumni Dave Metrinko, Ralph Norton, Pete Freeman and Wendell Harsanyi for their memories and insights.
Meredith McAlister Kraus
In the summer of 2006, Meredith McAlister, along with Chelsea Renoe, Sherri Korpella and Kirk Wiggins, founded the Severn River women’s rugby team. In its infancy, the ladies practiced with the men’s team and scraped together a few additional ladies to enter 7s tournaments on the weekends. In the fall of 2006, they managed to recruit enough ladies to compete in their first fall 15s season, under the tutelage of Coach Kirk Wiggins.
In those early years, there was no women’s executive board. The only governing body was the men’s club administration. Therefore, all the women’s team planning and organizing fell to the Captain, Coach, and Selector. As the women’s team’s first Selector, Meredith helped develop match schedules, event agendas, and travel itineraries. She quickly saw the need to have a women’s team representative on the club’s E-board, and was the first woman elected to the position.
Women’s Team Founder, Selector, Governor, Club Treasurer, Women's Captain, Women’s Coach, and Women’s Match Secretary are all positions that Meredith has held. In addition to maintaining offices within the club, she also represented Severn River externally. She was the Capital Rugby Geographic Union Women’s D1 Coordinator and Select Side Administrator, as well as the Capital Rugby Union Representative for the USA Rugby Congress. She was awarded the Leather Balls accolade in 2016 for all the hard work she did for the club.
Meredith was also a force to be reckoned with on the pitch. She spent 12+ years in the Severn River jersey kicking ass. Any team that knew her avoided contact with her, and any team that didn’t know her soon regretted their “I’ve got the back with the stupid bow in her hair” comment. Meredith's teammates would laugh and say, "Yeah, you go get that girl with the bow. Let me know how that works out for you." It usually ended with that girl hobbling off the field with the concussion she'd just received, compliments of Meredith McAlister and her bow. During her time on the pitch, Meredith won the Most Valuable Back and the Steel Tits awards. She also made multiple MARFU and Capital Selects teams.
Meredith was always pushing team unity, on and off the pitch: always picking her teammates up and making them want to work harder, always making sure everyone was included in team gatherings and social events. She was, and still is, inviting everyone to hang out, meet up, keep in touch, and go places together.
Meredith's respect for and commitment to Severn River's unity, success, and longevity isn't exclusive to the women's side. She has long represented and advocated for connection and camaraderie between the men's and women's teams, past and present. Meredith's humility and respect for Severn River's roots have moved her to turn down two previous Hall of Fame nominations, in order to honor the club's founders and the first waves of selections.
SRRFC Hall of Fame of the Past
After a year-long hiatus, the SRRFC Hall of Fame committee is excited to resume its recognition of the best and brightest among us. Before announcing the 2021-2022 Severn River Rugby HOF class, we hope you will take a moment to read and look back at those who have already been inducted. In a forthcoming post, we will announce the newest inductees and speak to their accomplishments, in preparation for the induction ceremony at the annual SRRFC banquet on February 5, 2022.
2018-2019 Class
Henry Posko:
-Along with his brother Mike, founded the club in 1978
-Henry holds nearly all the Severn Rivers' 'firsts':
First Captain, Coach, and Selector
First recipient of the Leather Balls Award and Derby for Most Valuable Back
-Offices held:
President, Vice President, Governor, Match Secretary, and Field and Equipment
-Funded Severn River's Start:
Union dues, field expenses and first set of ugly brown jerseys
-Rugby Resume
Annapolis Rugby Club and Old Red Rugby Club
Coached first Green Hornet Coed Rugby
Mike Posko:
-Along with his brother Henry, founded the club in 1978
-Offices held:
Captain, Selector, President, Vice President and Governor
-Coordinated Tours:
England, Bahamas, Ireland twice and Trinidad
-Awards and Honors:
Most Valuable Forward (2), Most Valuable Back, and the Leather Balls Award (2)
-Rugby Resume:
Multiple PRU select side and Baltimore Area select side appearances
Played for Chesapeake Rugby Area Beer Social, Virginia Cardinals, DC Roosters, Poltoons, CRABSS, Chesapeake Rugby And Beer Select Side
Coached Severn for both 7s and 15s several times over the years
Pete Freeman:
-Offices held:
Captain, Coach, Secretary, and Field and Equipment
-Awards and Honors:
Most Valuable Back and Unsung Hero
-Rugby Resume:
PRU select side, Baltimore Areas select side, ERU, Louisiana Exiles, Virginia Cardinals, Wilmington Old Boys, CRABBS, and Severn Old Salts
Coached and coordinated Green Hornets Youth Rugby
2019-2020 Class
Marty O'Neil:
-Founder of the club's first newsletter
-Offices held:
Captain (3); including SRRFC's first ERU Championship, Coach (2), Selector (5)
-Award and Honors:
Most Valuable Back (2), Unsung Hero, Leather Balls Award
Golden 7's Award for Rugby Sevens play (One of only three Severn players to receive)
-Rugby Resume:
Severn River A-side player for 15 years
Select Side Player
Potomac Rugby Union (Under 23), BASS (Baltimore Areas Select Side)
Major force in Severn River’s national level Seven’s program
Founder of Severn River’s first Sevens Tournament
Responsible for Severn River’s Sevens Tournament becoming an Eastern Rugby Union qualifier
Contributed as Founder, Tournament Director, Captain, and Player
Dan Gotimer:
-Offices Held:
SRRFC Club Coach for ten years
Selector for multiple years
-Awards and Honors:
Unsung Hero and the Leather Balls Awards
-Rugby Resume:
Dan played for Severn River for 25 of his 39-year rugby career
Created one of Severn River’s strongest recruitment pipelines
Green Hornets: Co-founder of (youth) Rugby at the request of USA RFU
Spaulding: Coached first “varsity” high school rugby game in Maryland
Recruited and trained a teacher at Spaulding as coach to foster the sport
Brought hundreds of kids into the rugby family
Coach and mentor
Coached at youth, high school, college and club levels
Led team to the Mid-Atlantic Rugby Football Union playoffs multiple years
Won the Mid-Atlantic Rugby Football Union Championship
Guided six rugby players on their professional career paths
Several high school players have gone on to win national championships at the Club and Collegiate levels
Charlie Dayton:
-Offices Held: Vice President, Governor, Selector, Match Secretary, Field and Equipment
-Awards and Honors:
Most Valuable Forward (2), Unsung Hero, and Leather Balls Award
-Rugby Resume:
Played for Severn River for over 25 years
Played BASS, Baltimore Area Select Side, CRABSS, and the Chesapeake Rugby Area Beer Social Side
Ralph Norton
-Offices Held: President, Vice President, Governor, Selector, Match Secretary, Fields and Equipment
-Awards and Honors: Most Valuable Forward, Unsung Hero and the Leather Balls Award
-Rugby Resume:
Played for Severn River for 20 years Played for BASS, Baltimore Area Select Side
Coached the Men's Club for 5 years, including going to the Nationals and ERU Playoffs twice
Severn River vs Chesapeake: The Return of the Honey Badger
By: Lenni Ferreira
Since the first canceled practice back in 2020, the Honey Badgers, deprived of doing what they loved, have grown hungry. They found crumbs to eat, watching rugby while in quarantine at home and eventually got some slivers to hold them over once they were able to play in a couple friendlies in the Spring and Summer of 2021, but the hunger kept building. The Honey Badgers grew wild, waiting for their first meal, and on an early morning in late September, they finally got to feast.
On September 18th at 10:30 AM, on their home pitch, Sever River Women’s Rugby kicked off their first league game since Fall 2019. Chesapeake traveled down a short ways to Annapolis to face off against Severn River. The Badgers started off strong and did not let up.
Eager to get playing time in for all, Forwards Captain Kate Todorovich was excited that they “were able to use all our subs and move many people around to play different positions.” Although there were many player and lineup changes, Todorovich added that the team was still able to “focus on working on our new style of play which really shows how adaptable this squad is.”
Newer Honey Badger, Izzy Smith, remarked that her first league game with the team was really fun. As most veteran players know, games early in your rugby career can be chaotic, and Smith noted she was “super excited to have gotten the ball and been able to run with it a bit.” A true triumph for any rookie rugger.
The relentless and hungry Honey Badgers were not only able to rack up 95 points that included 15 tries and 10 conversions, but prevented any tries being scored against them the entire 80 min. The 15 tries were scored by a total of 10 different players, speaking to the squads overall talent, unity, and teamwork. Walking away with a 95-0 win, the Honey Badger stay hungry for more. Their next league match will be an away game against James River on Saturday October 2nd.
Men of the Match: Holly Schafer (F) and Sara Mercado (B)
Tries: Abuela (1), Tina (1), Hope (1), Zori (1), Rayne (1), Bomb (2), Masha (2), Todo (2), Marshall (2), Bri (2)
Conversions: Masha (10 of 15)
Roster:
1- Jasmine Harrison
2- Hope Wasserman
3- Shanna Davidson (Blade)
4- Kate Todorovich (Todo) (C)
5- Maria Beteta (Abuela)
6- Brianne Niewinski
7- Hannah Whiteley (Scrappy)
8- Holly Schafer
9- Tina Schafer (C)
10- Charlee Bryan
11- Rayne Trouwborst
12- Sara Mercado
13- Maria Romanchak (Masha)
14- Shelly Freeman (Bomb)
15- Katie Marshall
16- Katie Turner
18- Victoria Zito
20- Zori Drew
21- Sophie Clendenin
22- Casey Hartzell
23- Samantha Bottrof
24- Izzy Smith
25- Maria Russo-Greer