2005 Archive

Index

11/07/2005 Thank You!
11/07/2005 Nine Ways to Skin GOATS
11/03/2005 Highlanders Complete Fall Season Undefeated in League Play

10/21/2005 Welcome Boa Construction
10/20/2005 Highlanders 36 - Boulder 23
10/12/2005 Highlanders Victorious in the Springs
10/05/2005 Highlanders Drop Season Opener (but get the win anyway)

09/22/2005 New Sponsor
09/16/2005 Moose and Patty Update
09/10/2005 Scottish Games Exhibition Report
09/02/2005 A Highlander Needs Your Help

08/29/2005 Mountain 15's
08/06/2005 Highlanders Take 7's Championship
08/03/2005 Sabol's Throw a Foal
08/01/2005 A Message From Our Imperious Leader (a.k.a. Hojon)

06/28/2005 Highlander Coach Leads ERRFU U-19's to Championship
06/27/2005 WRFU Division I Realignment
06/17/2005 Highlanders Victorious in Summer 7's Openers

04/22/2005 Another New Rugger
04/14/2005 The Spring Turtle Hatch

03/09/2005 Olde Boys Party Photos
03/01/2005 Introducing Evan Jerald Wilkey

02/15/2005 St. Valentine's Day Massacre Report
02/14/2005 Highlanders Return to Garland Park

01/25/2005 AGM Report

2004 Archives
2006 Archives

Thank You!

From the Board and Officers of the Denver Highlanders RFC

11/07/2005
All Club Members,

I wanted to take a minute and offer some thanks for the recent chili day at the pitch during our match vs. the GOATS. First of all thank you to the active side for the crushing victory. I would also like to thank our coach Steve Lewis for instilling the winning spirit and taking our club through an impressive fall in our quest to win the D-1 North. It was truly a pleasure to watch.

Next thank you to the many old boys who cooked chili, brought tents, took photos, helped with the clean up, and more. The support from our OB’s continues to grow, but for those of you who missed the match and a great time with your pals on the sideline, we’ve got room for more, so we encourage you to become a part of something that is growing in the right direction. In fact, I’ll leave you with these two comments by active players. One veteran center that has been with us for about a year stated “the reason I came to this club was because of the Old Boys and their involvement.” The second comment from a long time Highlander stated, “Today was great! We had many Old Boys, wives, and families and this was like it used to be.”

These comments make the hard work worth it. Isn’t it time for you to re-engage? I keep seeing guys I played with and they tell me they want to come out and to get back with the club. I urge you to do so. Whether you contribute time, chili, or tents or the ever needed funding, we need your help in some way. If you would like to get more involved please contact either myself or Craig Tarr our OB’s liaison.

A final thank you to our #1 sponsor the Old Hole. Tom donated a keg of Guinness which was heartily consumed and then we had a great party at his establishment after the match.

To all, let’s keep it going and we will continue to be the preeminent club side in the Denver area.

Best to all,

Paul "Hojon" Plvan - Chairman of the Board

Nine Ways to Skin GOATS

By Steve Lewis - Crack(ed) Reporter

11/07/2005
The Highlanders welcomed the Goats of Omaha to Jacobs Park on Saturday for the penultimate game in the Division 1 league season. Clouds and snow threatened all day without ever materializing but plenty of Old Boys did and it made for a great Saturday at the Jake as The Highlanders sought to go 3-0 in league play.

From the outset the home men dominated in every sphere and after an early Brad Nelson penalty (3-0), line-out ball was won, Shayne Kawana ran straight and hard and from the ensuing ruck skipper Clinton Camp scored under the posts. Brad Nelson converted as he was to do for every other try, converting 10 of 11 kicks on the day. (10-0). Further Highlander dominance resulted in Mike Grippi scoring from 40 yards with the opposition posted absent and this was followed by Scott Bredehoeft’s fine individual chip and chase for 24-0. The bigger Goats pack stuck to the task and was beginning to out-muscle the home men in the line-out successfully driving and finally pulling one back for 24-5. The Highlanders responded with Clinton Camp scoring again with a trademark fast pick from a 5-yard scrum. (31-5). The first-half scoring was completed with a further Bredehoeft try and another Omaha forward drive. Half-time 38-12.

The second half started with more of the same, Highlander dominance with occasional Omaha resistance up front. Tries were added by Mike Edwards, Mike Dellere, Brad Nelson and the veteran full-back easing his creaking body over to complete a hat-trick. Final score 66-12. A job well done and a trip to Dallas for the Westerns secured with all six substitutes used in the second half. Once again there were strong performances all round with Bredehoeft particularly effective from deep. In addition the half-back pairing of Guerra and Nelson impressed with good decisions and tenacious tackling (yes, even Brad!).

Highlanders Complete Fall Season Undefeated in League Play

11/03/2005
Last Saturday the Highlanders finished the fall campaign in a big way by thoroughly thumping the GOATS to stay undefeated in Division I league play. The Highlanders scored on a penalty kick in the first minute of the match and jumped to a 24-nil lead over the course of the next ten minutes. It was all downhill from there for the GOATS, and the men in black proceeded to accumulate 9 converted tries to go with the penalty on their way to the final tally of 66 points to 12. Scott Bredehoeft and Clinton Camp led the try-fest with a total of 5 tries between them, with Bredehoeft collecting the hat trick.

Tries: Bredehoeft(3), Camp(2), Grippi, Edwards, Delerre, Nelson
Kicks: Nelson (9 conversions, 1 penalty)

Well done boys, way to finish the fall season on such a strong note! Everyone is invited to meet up at the Old Hole next Thursday evening, Nov. 10 for an informal end of season celebration.

Coach Steve Lewis has also posted a new message for the players over on the Coaches Corner page.

Training Moved to Montbello This Week

10/24/2005
Training will move to Montbello Central Park this week so we can take advantage of a lighted practice facility. This week's training sessions will take place on Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Montbello Central Park is located at Andrews Drive and Crown Blvd. (see map)

Welcome Boa Construction

10/21/2005

The club would like to acknowledge Boa Construction, Inc. for becoming our newest sponsor. Boa is one of Denver's largest and best-known residential remodeling specialists. Many of you are already familiar with one of Boa's executive partners, Dave Farmer. Dave has been a member of the Highlanders for many years and is noteworthy as a hard-hitting, former Dartmouth Lacrosse star turned rugby hooker, that once turned down an opportunity to play at left wing forward because he did not want to be associated with "left wing" anything. The club has also had to retire the annual "Unguided Missle"' award because Dave's history of ferocious hits made it impossible to ever find a suitable candidate after he retired from play. The hooker formerly known as "Poodle Head" remains one of the Highlander's most staunch supporters and we thank him for his continued interest in the club (although I still have a mild concern regarding his trustworthyness since he has never replaced that shinguard I loaned him that the medical staff cut off his freshly broken leg at a match against CU back in the day - of course it obviously didn't provide that much protection in hindsight, and I was probably better off without it). 

If you have a home remodeling project in mind please give them a ring, or visit Boa's homepage by clicking on their logo in the sponsors section. I've seen their work, it is definitely "top drawer" stuff.

Highlanders 36 - Boulder 23

by Steve "Lizzard" Lewis - full time coach & wannabe reporter (and despite rumors to the contrary, is NOT from Australia)

10/20/2005
It was a glorious fall afternoon and conditions were perfect as the Highlanders traveled to Boulder for a crucial Division 1 encounter on Saturday. After a good practice Thursday evening and the return of Shayne Kawana and Mike Grippi, the Highlanders were prepared and confident. The game started well with the Highlanders pack dominating their opposition and making inroads with controlled and disciplined rucking. However, Boulder were to score first when a loose pass was intercepted and against the run of play, took a 7-0 lead. Highlanders heads did not go down however and after a superb chance was spurned on the left wing, hard-working Matt Mains scored from close range. Brad Nelson converted for 7-7. Boulder scored soon after with a prodigious drop goal for 10-7 before the Highlanders persistence paid off for two good tries down the left flank for Nick and Shayne after good rucking, slick transference from the base by Tim Guerra, and fine interpassing from the backs. The Highlanders led 17-10, but just before the break Boulder took advantage of poor concentration at a penalty to level the scores. Everything even 17-17 at the half despite Boulder having been in the Highlander 22 only once.

The next score was a captain’s try by Clinton Camp who burst for over 40 meters in a spectacular individual effort leaving the Boulder fullback bamboozled and clutching thin air. Brad Nelson converted for 24-17. Again Boulder chipped back with a penalty for 24-20 before the Highlanders finally took control of the game with a penalty try being awarded as Dustin Daugherty was held up on the try line. Another Nelson conversion made it 31-20 and Boulder unleashed a spell of pressure which saw determined Highlander defence. The game was then interrupted by Boulder #8 Murray Wallace requiring an ambulance for a bad ankle break after a tilt at the Highlander line. All Boulder managed was another penalty to take the score to 31-23 before Scott Bredehoeft, the veteran influential all day from fullback, iced the game with a score in the corner after exploiting Boulder confusion and collecting his own chip. A fine Highlanders victory of 36-23 and a try-count of 6-2 left Boulder well-beaten.

A good performance overall by the pack with the back-row of Matt, Clinton and Jeff outstanding in close quarters and Zilla exhibiting some good handling and a fine 30-meter breenge that gladdened the heart. Tim Guerra worked hard all day and his pass enabled Brad Nelson plenty of time at stand-off. The new (or old) center pairing of Shayne and Grippi also worked well with straight running and good defence.

Bring on the GOATS! (see below) 

Fall Season Winding Down

10/19/2005
The leaves have changed colors and the first snow has fallen in Denver, this can mean only one thing - the 2005 rugby season is almost over.

Fresh off last weekend's 36-23 victory over Boulder, the boys only have 2 weekends left on the fall schedule. This weekend they are off to the high dirt in Albuquerque. There will be 2 vans headed down to "Duke City" this Friday afternoon. Cost is $110 per player and covers the van rental, the gas, hotel rooms, breakfast on Saturday morning, and even a few cold ones on Saturday evening. Departure times are 3:30 and 5:00 from the Old Hole. Interested players need to contact Matt Mains to make arrangements ASAP.

Next weekend is the season finale against GOATS. The match will be played at the Jake and kickoff is at 1:00. The club is planning a shindig similar to what was done for the Kansas City match with chili, beer, and gear for sale at the pitch. This is our last Division I match for the fall, so come cheer on our men in black as they endeavour to finish the season with an undefeated record in the D-I Northern League. 

NOW HEAR THIS! A Message From Your Captain:

10/12/2005
Training is canceled tonight due to Denver Parks are closed. We will make up training tomorrow night at 6pm at Garland. Plan is to go over to the softball field on Thursday and train with Taffy and the girls under the lights. More to follow-

Please get on the phones and relay the news.

* Job well done this weekend playing the Springs- Also for players showing up at the Old Hole. We now have a 300$ credit for future parties due to Stu, Zilla, and myself standing security for the party.

* HOWEVER !!! The only people that showed up outside of who went and played in the Springs were the Wilkeys- What has happened to our support ???? It was very disappointing that no one showed in support of the anniversary party given the numbers of our alumni.

* We have Boulder this weekend in Boulder. I hope to see a better showing than last weekend. I'll see all the players at training.

Highlanders Victorious in the Springs

by John "Zilla" Rohner

10/12/2005
We won. Not sure what the exact score was but approximately 44-17. I did not score. Brad made some conversions. Clinton may have scored. Jeff ran his ass off and tackled a lot. Lou Ferrigno was not there. Yippie felt good next to me in the front row and stole a lot of balls. Chooch feels good too though. And, Ryan Cuthers received man of the match for a well played game. There are a few holes in this version… :)

The best news is that we had quite a few new guys who showed up to practice this last week AND came down to the game. Everyone who came down got into the first game and did very well. We did put together a game of 10s for a second game and won that too. Great job to everyone who showed up, especially the new guys.

Zilla

Colorado Springs Match Update

10/06/2005
This weekend's match against Colorado Springs has been changed to an away game (in the Springs, duh) due to our inabilty to snag one of the parks here in Denver. Kickoff is at 1:00 PM

Following the match there will be an anniversary party at the Hole. Brethenfest, a local band, will be playing there at 7:00 PM.

Highlanders Drop Season Opener (but get the win anyway)

by Scott "Spicoli" Bredehoeft

10/05/2005
The game started off well enough for the Highlanders, with lots of good breaks by the backs and solid forward play, but we just couldn't finish at the appropriate moment. A bad pass, a knock on, or a penalty seemed to kill off too many chances. The scoring opened early with KC blocking a kick for touch and falling on the ball in the try zone to go up 7-0. I still say he was offsides, but it seems that bitching and moaning to the ref didn't change his mind. Go figure.

Brad tightened up the score with a couple of nice penalty kicks to make it 7-6 and we were back in the game. Again, we weren't able to finish off the break aways like we should and fell further behind. The big wing from KC rumbled down the sideline and a series of missed tackles didn't help as he scored close to the middle of the posts. But, in true Highlander fashion, we didn't give up and kept attacking at every opportunity. Brad added another penalty kick to draw us a bit closer. The big boys up front won their scrums and line outs and the loose forwards were as mobile as ever. A nice dummy and pass from Tim lead to a easy try from 5 meters out for Bredehoeft and we were down 19-16 with plenty of time to go.

KC's flyhalf added a drop goal and the good guys were down by 6 with minutes to play. More missed chances followed and the final score ended up 22-16.

The guys played hard and never gave up. We just have a some work to do at trainings and we still have 2 league games left and are still fully in the playoff hunt. Let's continue to work hard, get fit, and show up at trainings.

Thanks to Kansas City for a well played match. And thanks to Jeff Sabol for stepping up and drinking the ass-crack beer when none of rookies were willing to take one for the team.

Tries - Bredehoeft (1) Penalties - Brad (3) Conversions - Brad (1)

Did we mention that we got the win anyway? Guess we also need to thank KC for using an ineligible player. Upon further review, the WRFU has subsequently deemed the match a forfeit win for the Highlanders, so it goes in the books as a 28-0 win for the home team. So it has been written, so too shall it be done. Well done boys!

Division I Northern League Opener this Saturday at Cook Park

09/26/2005
Come join the Highlanders as they host Kansas City RFC in their D-I North season opener this Saturday, October 1. Due to the capricious nature of the permit gestapo over at the City of Denver Parks and Recreation Department, the matches will be held at Cook Park. There will be a chili feed and kegs at the field. Come cheer on our men in black as they begin their campaign for their first Division I Northern League title. The A's kickoff at 1:00.

New Sponsor

09/22/2005

The club would like to extend our thanks to KooGa Rugby North America for joining our list of esteemed sponsors. KooGa is a purveyor of fine rugby gear and a proud sponsor of USA Rugby. Please click the above logo or use their link in the Sponsors section to shop their online store for all your rugby needs. In return for their sponsorship, KooGa will refund the club a total of 5% of all online sales originating from our link. Christmas is right around the corner, so shop early and shop often.

Barbos Match Schedule Change

09/21/2005
Please note - this Saturday's match has been moved to The Jake, A-side kickoff at 12:30. The B's will now be taking on the 'Quins at 3:30.

Barbos Match Added to Fall Schedule

09/19/2005
The Highlanders and the green slime have agreed to play a "friendlies" match this weekend at Observatory Park The Jake. Sha-right, a "friendlies" against the Bar-boons, as if...

The game will be this Saturday, September 24th. The A-side will kickoff at 1:00 PM 12:30 PM with the B's to follow [at 3:30, against the Harlequins].

Moose and Patty Update

09/16/2005
Moose and Patty are doing OK and are hanging tough at the moment. Moose has a temporary job working as security at the Hard Rock Hotel. It seems it was getting looted by some of the original security guards there and, strangely enough, the Hard Rock management did not approve so they replaced a few of them and Moose was lucky enough to score some work.

Moose and Patty drove into Biloxi earlier in the week to see if their apartment complex made it ok. It did not. Of the 36 units, only 2 were still standing. Patty was able to find one battered photo of her from her college soccer days and a few other minor things, but that was all. Everything else is gone.

Darren Hotop is finally heading down there for work early next week and will hook up with Moose to get some more clothes and supplies to him. To date, the Highlanders have raised somewhere around $2,200 for them, of which $1850 has already been sent. I currently have about 12 to 15 bags of clothes in my living room which are in the process of being sent down there. Some will go with Darren and others will be shipped via the US Post Office. Thanks to all of you who have helped out and please keep Moose and Patty and all the others down there in your thoughts. It is going to be a long process to rebuild and every little bit we do around here helps out more than you know.

Below is a black and white close up picture of Moose with the mountains in the background (circa Aspen Ruggerfest 2003?). If you know who may have the original photo, please let me know as Moose would like a copy of it. Over the next few weeks and months, I will be asking for copies of any Highlander photos you may have that we can send down there. When they vacated their apartment, they had to leave behind all of their photos and it would be nice if we can help replace some.

Thanks again to all who contributed.
Scott Bredehoeft

Scottish Games Exhibition Report

by Scott "Scoop" Bredehoeft - Cub Reporter

09/10/2005
Highlanders vs. Boulder

The game started out on an auspicious note for Boulder as the Highlanders stepped onto the pitch with only 14 of our guys and a borrowed wing from Boulder (thanks Roger Lamb for helping us out). With the wind gusting across the pitch and the sounds of bagpipes in the background, Boulder went up early 7-0. After a bit of back and forth, English style kicking and numerous line outs, Clinton scored a tough try in the corner off a ruck after plowing through a number of the Boulder fowards. He just wasn't going to be denied that close to the try line.

The inability of the Highlanders to win their fair share of line outs, combined with some rather poor first man tackling allowed Boulder to go up 21-7. With about 15 minutes left in the game, a nice scrum allowed the ball out to Mayfield who ran a perfect switch move that allowed Bredehoeft to score in the corner, making it 21-12. That was the end of the scoring for the game and the good guys lost a tough battle.

Congratulations to Chris and Dave, who played their first ever rugby game Saturday, and to Mark Mayfield and Coach Steve Lewis, who both swore it was their last A-side game (I don't believe them either).

Overall, well done boys. We went up there undermanned and still had a good showing for the day. Now is the time to start getting serious, however, as we have the Barbos, Boulder, Kansas City, and the GOATS all coming up very soon.

Tries - Clinton Camp (1), Scott Bredehoeft (1) Conversions - Brad (1)

Quote of the day:
Captain Clinton Camp to Bobo, the ref: "I didn't punch him, sir. When I hit him, my hand was open."

Cheers to Clinton. That one brought a smile to many of our faces.

A Highlander Needs Your Help

09/02/2005
Moose and Patty Wiseman were victims of Hurricane Katrina as it roared through their home in Biloxi, Mississippi last week. The good news is that Moose and Patty are both OK, and have temporarily relocated to Mobile, Alabama. The bad news is that they have lost everything as a result of the storm and they need our help IMMEDIATELY.

For those of you who did not have the privelege of knowing Moose and Patty, they are two of the nicest, most supportive and generous people that have ever been associated with this club. We are asking for all Highlanders to step up to the plate and support our teammate and family members in this time of need. They left Biloxi with little more than the clothes on their backs and what they could cram into a backpack. As a result of this disaster they are in dire need of both money and clothing.

Money - Due to the holiday weekend and its impending impact on the mail system, if you would like to make a cash donation the fastest way to get the money to Moose is to drop it off with Scott Bredehoeft (see contact information in the clothing donations section below). If you can't hook up with Scott, here are a number of other options available for you to make your donation:

1. Make a check out to DHRFC and mail it TODAY to (note that it is for Moose):
Denver Highlanders
PO Box 12144
Denver, CO 80212

2. If you would like your donation to be tax deductible, make a check out to ERRFU and make sure to note that it is for Moose and Patty, then mail it to the DHRFC PO Box noted above. ERRFU will then deposit and redistribute the donations on behalf of the club for delivery to the Wiseman's.

3. If you would like to make a wire transfer directly into the Highlanders account at Wells Fargo, please contact Mike Drummond at: mike.drummond@wellsfargo.com or call him at 303-598-1953

4. Go to any Wells Fargo branch and ask to make a deposit to the Denver Highlanders "Moose" account (they can look it up) - call Drummond if you run into problems as the Highlanders have multiple accounts at Wells Fargo and we need to ensure that the funds get into the correct one.

5. Paypal - make a donation using the Highlanders Paypal account. One note on this, due to the structure of this account we are only able to withdraw a maximum of $500 per month so any donations exceeding that amount may take some time to get to Moose and Patty. Obviously we won't turn them down if this is the only way you can donate to the cause, just know that there are limitations with this method.

Clothing - Scott Bredehoeft and Rowdy are leading the clothing drive. Moose and Patty have one pair of shoes on their feet and 3 sets of clothes apiece so they have the need for a bit of everything from underwear to jackets. Moose wears size 12 wide shoes and Patty wears size 10 shoes. Moose has a 40" waist and is at least a XXL for shirts. Not sure of accurate sizes for Patty's clothing but for those of you that remember her, she is a fairly good sized gal. Clothing donations for any ages, sizes, or genders will be accepted though. Moose and Patty are not alone in their plight and any items they cannot personally use will be donated to the Red Cross or Salvation Army in Mobile.

Scott's address:
6583 S. Kearney Circle
Centennial, CO 80111

Take I-25 to Arapahoe and go west. Go past Quebec (about 2 miles) and turn right on Krameria Way (look for the "Cherry Park" subdivision sign). Turn left at the first stop sign and its the 2nd house on the left. There is a big roll-off dumpster in the driveway. From University and Arapahoe, go east, past Holly Street (about 3 miles) and turn left on Krameria.

Craig Tarr's company will be sending representatives to Mobile as early as next Tuesday. Darren Hotop is also headed that way soon. They will be able to deliver any money and clothing we collect before they depart, so time is of the essence. Please be generous, think how you might feel if you suddenly lost everything you owned in one day.

PS - this weekend's game against Albuquerque has been cancelled.

Mountain 15's

by Scott "Scoop" Bredehoeft - Roving Reporter

08/29/2005
Well done to all the gents who showed up in Breck this weekend. We showed up with 17 players and all of them played their asses off.

The first game was a hard fought, well played game against Aspen. While the Highlanders fell to the Gentlemen of Aspen 22-14, we played a strong game and fought until the end. A 50 meter run from Nick the Quick down the left side kept us close, but our back line just couldn't break through their defense with any level of consistency. The Highlander defense was more than adequate for most of the game and did a nice job of containing Aspen. The big boys up front played excellent ball, winning all but one of our set pieces and stealing a couple of theirs. After Bredehoeft stuck his head up his butt and failed to score from 5 meters out, the ensuing scrum saw the Highlanders drive them back and score with the ball still in the scrum. There really is nothing prettier than a pack drive for a try, especially against Aspen.

Tries - Nick (1), Rowdy (1)
Conversions - Brad (2)

The second game was against a combined Breckenridge/Boulder squad. Again, the pack seemed to be in charge, winning most, if not all, of our set pieces. Even had a defensive scrum that saw the Breck side collapse from sheer, brute strength on our part. A couple of mistakes from Breck, along with some fancy footwork and passing from Clinton, Jeff, and Nick led to 2 tries. A strong tackle by Rowdy caused a lousy pass from Breck which ended up on the ground. A quick scoop of the ball by the good guys and it was off to the races. A late penalty try was awarded to Breck, but it wasn't enough. Highlanders win 19-7.

Tries - Bredehoeft (2), Nick (1)
Conversions - Brad (2)

Then came the weather. To paraphrase/steal a quote: "The coldest winter I've ever seen was summer in Breckenridge" First, a nice drizzle started to let the temp drop a bit from a very pleasant mid 70's, then the lightning, immediately followed by hail. Big love to Turtle for having the forsight to bring the tent, under which I cuddled with anybody who would let me - not suprisingly, nobody would let me. Go figure. With the lightning coming from above and the beers starting to go down, Breck called off the remainder of the day before the 3rd/4th place game could be played.

Quick note to Breckenridge RFC: Fun tourney, good rugby, awesome pitch, and thanks for the altitude (playing at 9500 feet sucks!!!). I only heard one complaint from our coach, Steve Lewis. You were giving out copious amounts of free beer, but Steve didn't get any of the Jamison's he saw floating around. Letting a Scotsman see a bottle of whiskey, but not letting him touch it - now that's just plain mean. Thank God he's not Irish, or it would have been time to throw down.

Highlanders Take 7's Championship

Old Boys to Resume Training

08/06/2005
[Insert best NFL Films announcer dude voice here] In the twilights last gleaming on the frozen tundra of Francis Weisbart Jacobs Field, the always mighty Denver Highlanders 7 a side "A" squad managed to wrest victory from the jaws of defeat to win the Super Summer 7's Championship over a spirited Softball Was Full side by a score of two tries to one. [End announcer dude voice]

OK, so it wasn't "frozen tundra," but there was what suspiciously looked like leaky septic pit mud, more than one doggy dookie, and it was dark as all get out. From the sidelines it looked about like this: The Highlanders scored on the opening kickoff, later they gave back a try to SWF, with about 3 minutes left in the 2nd half DHRFC scored again, with less than 30 secs to play they gave up a long break down the touchline but but a phantom appeared out of the dusky gloom to thwart the offending ball carrier somewhat short of the goal line. Then the whistle went, and the Highlander 7 emerged from the darkness as Summer Sevens Champs.

Fortunately, we have received a slightly more detailed account of the day from someone who actually participated in the activities (thanks Herr B).

Congratulations to all who played on Friday night. The A-side team beat Ft. Collins in the quarter-finals and Mines in the semi-finals in back to back games. No small feat considering how old Craig Tarr and company are. The final match was against Softball Was Full, which is mostly East High grads who now play college ball or play for the hated Green Slime.

As the sun was setting, the Highlanders jumped out to an early lead by returning the opening kickoff for a try. Lots of hard rugby, good passing, and excellent tackling followed and with 3-4 minutes left in regulation, the scored was tied 1-1. A long break by Clinton set up a ruck near the goal line and a nice pass from Grant Trusler was all that was needed to make it 2-1 in favor of the good guys. Good thing, too. Grant suffered a separated shoulder just a minute later, but, he toughed it out and finished the game. A few beers would have helped his pain, but, instead, he went to the hospital. I guess those South Africans aren't as rugged as we all thought.

Softball Was Full made one last effort with a long break away down the sideline but the old men were up to the task and took him down after a long chase before he could even up the score. In near darkness, the whistle blew and we claimed a nice little ego-boost for the summer.

The B-side played excellent ball as well, winning in the opening round before falling in a well played match in the quarter-finals.

Thanks to all the fans, friends, and family who showed up at the pitch. It was nice to see Bill Baldwin out and about again, showing off his new, sleeker frame for 2005.

P.S. There is absolutely no truth to the rumor that Hojon threw the B-Side quarter final match so he could join Mssrs. Baldwin, Doessel, Wadsworth, White, and Prilliman near the sideline beverage cooler for the remainder of the evening.

P.P.S. As a result of their new found, youthful exuberance, the Old Boys have decided to commence having regular touch games on Thursday evenings at 6:30 - Garland Park. Everyone is welcome to come join in the festivites, work up a good lather, and get refreshed later at the Hole.

Super Summer 7's Playoffs

08/05/2005
The Highlanders regulars and old farts have somehow managed to qualify 2 sides for tonight's Super Summer 7's playoffs at The Jake. Come cheer both sides on to what will undoubtably be an all Highlander championship match (can anyone say "Boat race at midfield?"). Games start at 6. It's Friday - be there or be unmercifully dissed for your absence.

Fall Schedule Posted

08/05/2005
The match schedule for the fall season has now been posted over on the fixtures page.

Effective immediately, and until further notice, regular training sessions for the fall season will be held at 6:30 PM every Tuesday and Thursday at Garland Park (see map).

Sabol's Throw a Foal

08/03/2005
Jeff and Shari Sabol have added a new little girl to their family.

Miss Baby Sabol was born this morning at 8:33 am, 5 lbs 10 oz, 18 3/4 inches long.

All ten fingers, all ten toes, 2 eyes, 2 ears & one nose. Mom and daughter are both perfectly healthy and resting.

A name is forthcoming. Technically they have a year, but Daddy is hoping to decide today.

[Update] - The baby's official tag is Sasha Spirit Sabol (God forbid she stutters or has a lisp).

Shari is feeling great and would love to see visitors now. Shari and Sasha are at Rose Hospital, room #324. Visiting hours run until 8 pm this evening. The whole family will be heading home on Saturday around noon.

A Message From Our Imperious Leader (a.k.a. Hojon)

08/01/2005
Dear Fellow Ruggers,

It's time for our fall season to begin. As we wrap up a successful summer, playing 7's and enjoying some fun mountain tourneys we are ready to make a much anticipated run to the playoffs. Our new coach Steve Lewis has asked me to invite all of you active players out to training at Garland Park each Tuesday, and Thursday beginning tomorrow 8/2.

For the many new players that I have been in contact with, we are excited that you are interested in becoming a Denver Highlander and have a chance to play the best game in the world,...rugby.

The board of directors and club officers are excited about the huge progress we have made as a club. The involvement of your Old Boys has been outstanding, a new Highlander trust fund has been established, we have attracted many new sponsors, but no news is more exciting than the arrival of our new coach Steve Lewis. Many of the Old Boys played with, and against Steve and know what a fierce competitor he is, and the kind of impact he can make for the Denver Highlanders RFC. As the active squad, listen, learn and above all enjoy the game of rugby with Steve's direction.

To our continued success,

Paul "Hojon" Plvan

Fall Training Starts Next Tuesday, August 2 - 6:00 PM

07/25/2005

OK, it's time to get your fanny out of the lawn chair and get it ready for rugby. New DHRFC coach, Steve Lewis, has announced that pre-season training for the upcoming fall season will commence next Tuesday, August 2nd at 6:00 PM. At this time it is still uncertain as to whether training will be at Garland or at the Jake so check back soon for the updated details. Better yet, put down your weed whacker and come out to the Jake this Wednesday to cheer on the Highlanders 7's sides, and get any updated information regarding training at the same time.

Highlander Coach Leads ERRFU U-19's to Championship

06/28/2005
The Eastern Rockies RFU U-19 squad defeated Texas 23-13 to capture the Premier Under-19 Tournament championship on Sunday at Boulder's Pleasant View Fields. This prestigious 16 team tournament featured U-19 LAU select sides from across the country, as well as 2 teams representing England and Canada. To say that this was a Cinderella story for the ERRFU side is a mild understatement as the Texas side boasted six national U-19 players on their roster. The ERRFU side had two national U-19 representatives of their own, Logan Collins and eventual championship game man of the match winner James Patterson. Patterson scored two tries in the championship victory, and also earned a spot on the All Tournament side for his efforts.

The Colorado side was coached by the incoming Highlanders head coach, Steve Lewis. Steve was a standout player for the Highlanders (back in the day), and is taking over the head coaching reins from Nigel Smith this summer. Hopefully this recent success will carry over to his Division I coaching debut with the Highlanders this fall.

The club wishes to extend its congratulations to Steve, the U-19 squad, and all of their ERRFU, CYA and High School coaches on this tremendous accomplishment. Well done, guys.

WRFU Division I Realignment

06/27/2005
The Western Rugby Football Union has recently restructured the Division I sub-regions for the upcoming 2005-06 season. The old Western, Central, and Texas sub-regions have been dropped along with a number of their lesser members. Our mighty Denver Highlanders will be moving from the now defunct Western region to become a member of a new Northern Division. Joining the Highlanders in the division this fall will be Boulder, Kansas City, St. Louis (Bombers), and Omaha (GOATS). Our "Bubba Rugby" friends from Texas have also been reorganized to form the new Southern Division. This realignment will dramatically improve the level of Division I competition across the board, and the new 2 region format will also eliminate the need for any quarter-final playoff round. Next year's playoffs will consist of the top two teams from each division, with the semis and final matches occurring over the course of a single weekend.

This new alignment should make for a really exciting season of top notch rugby in the new WRFU Northern Division this fall. And the best news of all?

No more trips to El Paso... 

Old Hole Golf Tourney

06/27/2005
The Old Hole Golf Tourney is scheduled for August 1st at Heather Ridge Country Club (see map). Shotgun start @ 10:00 am. The entry fee is $90 per player.

Your entry fee gets you the following:

1. 18 Holes
2. Free booze (beer & shots) all day
3. Goodie bag (probably visor, golf tees, other various golf and liquor/beer promo items)
4. Sack Lunch
5. Buffet @ the Old Hole after tourney
6. Raffle @ the Old Hole (TV's, bikes, and many other big items)
7. Coors girls will be @ Old Hole after party
8. Miller Bus will be available for rides (details on this to follow)
9. Course is private so you will have one helluva time!!!

This tournament is a charity event. Proceeds from this event have yet to be determined. Tom has indicated POSSIBLE benefit to the club. We must produce several teams to even be considered as a "co-beneficiary" I already have one team in myself and working on another team of non-highlanders. You all have plenty of time to get this organized. When you have a team of 4, call the Old Hole @ 303-388-2883 and get your names on the roster. This event can be a good step in repairing our relationship with Tom if the team shows up.

2005 All Comers Tournament Cancelled

06/27/2005
Due to scheduling conflicts with the union, we have unfortunately been forced to cancel this year's All Comers Tournament. Thanks to all that volunteered to assist with this year's event planning and we'll hope to have better luck next year.

Highlanders Victorious in Summer 7's Openers

06/16/2005
Scott Bredehoeft - Roving Reporter

The boys got off to a huge start last nite with both teams winning both of their matches - that would be a record of 4-0 for those keeping score at home. Big Mike Zerr is still able to rumble/sprint/stagger down the sideline, immediately followed by the universally accepted signal for "I need oxygen, NOW!!" Hojon's hair was still beautiful at the end of every game. And if anybody sees Clinton, be sure to ask him if he knows where he is, because after that knock to the head, he had no clue for at least an hour. But he did keep the guy from scoring. Way to sacrifice the body for Wednesday nite 7's Clinton.

For the active players - come on out. We had about 20 players for 2 teams last nite and would like to put in a third. Its good fun rugby and the teams are mixed with crafty old guys, fit young guys and more than a few fat bastards who weren't aware that it is possible to get your heart rate over 110 beats per minute. So, actives, try and make it next Wednesday. Bring your kit, a white and a dark shirt, and don't forget to bring a 12 pack of your favorite beverage as well.

Matches are held at 6:00 PM every Wednesday at The Jake.

Summer 7's Starts Tonight

06/15/2005
It's time. Come cheer on the Highlanders and the Old Boys as they kick off the summer 7's league tonight at the Jake. Players that want to participate on the Old Boys' side should get to the park by 5:45 and look for Hojon or Craig Tarr. Be there, or be spoken poorly of (with the possible exception of Baldwin who remains somewhat indisposed after his recent encounter with a swamp cooler, a roof, his own body mass, and a sudden stop on the ground level).

High School Rugby All Star Match Tonight

05/25/2005
The Colorado High School Rugby All Star Matches are tonight at Shea Stadium in Littleton. The girls start at 6:00 followed by the boys at 7:30

Location: Shea Stadium - 3270 Redstone Park Cir, Littleton, CO 80129.
Directions: From C-470 - south on Santa Fe about 1.2 miles. Turn left on Town Center Drive and go for .3 miles. The stadium will be on your right.

As always, assistance from the Men's and Women's Clubs of ERRFU is welcome - these are your future players. Thanks in advance for your help.

Under 19 Tournament Volunteers Needed

05/24/2005
The Highlanders have been asked to assist with the U-19 tournament at Pleasant View Park in Boulder on the weekend of June 25-26. The club has been asked to provide at least 12 volunteers to help with field set up and general tournament chores from 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM on Saturday, June 25th. The uniform of the day will be Hawaiian shirts. Anyone who is interested in helping with this premier event is asked to please contact Whitey. Thanks for your continued support.

Summer 7's Tuneup [Updated]

05/24/2005
Stay in shape for the summer 7's season by participating in weekly touch rugby sessions. Every Wednesday night at Garland Park - 6:00 PM (please note the new time). This will be a fun way to keep loose for the 7's season beginning in June (and yet another poor excuse to have a couple of cold brews with your mates afterwards).

FYI - Super Summer Sevens begins June 15th at The Jake. Player's fees will be $20 for the entire summer season.

Another New Rugger

04/22/2005
Congratulations to David McLain and his wife Jill who welcomed Timothy Alastair into the world at 9:03 AM on April 5, 2005. Timothy measured in at 8 pounds 1 ounce, and 21 inches.

Banquet Reminder

04/14/2005
The Banquet is right around the corner (April 23). If you haven't made your reservations yet, please do so now by responding to this evite or by emailing Jason Andrews. You can also use the Paypal links below to make your payment.

Don't forget about the Alumni Game at Garland Park either. Kickoff is at 1:00 PM on the 23rd. There will be "practices" at Garland Park on Tuesday the 19th and Thursday the 23rd at 6:30 PM.

The Spring Turtle Hatch

04/14/2005
Congratulations to Andrew "Turtle" Rendell and his wife, Tomi on the birth of their new boy. Benjamin Murphy Rendell was born 6:15 am on April 13th and comes in at 7 lbs 10 oz.

Colorado Springs Match This Weekend

04/08/2005
The boys have scheduled a match tomorrow (4/9) with Colorado Springs in order to help prepare for their upcoming playoff game against the St. Louis Bombers on the 16th. Kickoff will be at 1:30 at Bear Creek Park in the Springs (map below). Players need to report to the pitch by noon, those wishing to caravan should meet at the Old Hole by 10:45.

Boulder Match Update and Metropolis RFC (Minneapolis) Match

03/31/2005
UPDATE - The kickoff has been changed to 2:00 PM, local players please meet at the Hole by 11:00.

The kickoff is scheduled for Saturday at 2 PM in Boulder. Out of town players, please arrive by 12:45. Old Boys we’d appreciate your support. This is a big game for our team. This determines whether we’ll be hosting Houston ARC on April 16th or traveling to St. Louis. We need to win since, travel funds are low with the players. Plus, it’s going to feel good when we kick their asses.

Also, a division I team from the Midwest is coming into town this weekend. Metropolis RFC from Minneapolis, Minnesota will be here. We will have a game at Noon on Sunday at Garland Park. Anyone who wants some game time, please show up. We'd love to field our A side against them for the first half and then a motley team from there. We are hoping that 3 halves of rugby will be played on Sunday. Boulder and Harlequins may be sending some players for either team on Sunday as well.

On Saturday, Boulder is having a post-game party at the Attic following the game.

Banquet Update

03/28/2005
The banquet is upon us...We need to begin to collect items for the silent auction at the banquet. We have had some generous donations of a Fly Fishing Trip /w a south African Grandmaster, Golf Tickets and some Highlander photos. We need more items. If you work for a company that can donate something talk to them, if you can provide a service the donate it (Zilla is donating himself to any women who attends). If you have something to provide please email or call me at 303-759-0213. Some peoples trash is another's treasures.

Today we have also signed a contract to have the banquet. We need people to begin to RSVP to the event. This will be a formal event and it will be worth you time and money. You can RSVP to me directly via email or you can do it via evite. For you old timers and people who don't really like computers just give a check to Matt Mains, Clinton Camp, or myself and we will put your name down for the event. We have to have a confirmed number 3 days before the event, and this is one month away. Here is the link to the Evite for the event. Also please begin paying for the event via check or use the Paypal links below. The cost for the event is $40 per person.

Thanks,
Jason Andrews

Boulder Match Postponed

03/25/2005
Tomorrow's match in Boulder has been postponed one week due to the weather. Please see Nigel's message to everyone over on the Coaches Corner.

Olde Boys Party Photos

03/09/2005
The photos from the Olde Boys Reunion/Fundraiser bash have now been posted in The Gallery.

A Question For Our Players

03/09/2005
You'll find the latest message from Nigel over on the Coaches Corner.

Return of the March Madness Raffle

03/07/2005
Raffle tickets are $10.00/team. Payment in cash or check needs to be received by or on 3/15/05 (all returned checks are subject to a $50.00 fee).

Payout is as follows:

• Championship winner wins $160.00
• Championship loser wins $80.00
• Final four losers (2 teams) win $40.00/each
• Final eight losers (4 teams) win $20.00/each
• Money back if your team loses in the sweet sixteen (8 teams) $10.00/each

The drawing will be held next Tuesday night 3/15/05 after practice at the Old Hole. You do not need to be present during the drawing - however your money does if you would like to participate.

Checks can be post marked by 3/14/05 and mailed to (please indicate that this is for the March Madness Tournament Raffle):

Denver Highlanders
P.O. Box 12144
Denver, CO 80212

The results of the drawing will be posted via the yahoogroups e-mail service.

Please support your club and participate in the raffle.

Thank you,
Craig Tarr

2005 Highlanders Banquet Set

03/02/2005
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Mark your calendars. The Highlander annual banquet is scheduled for April 23rd at the Tech Center Marriott. This falls on a Saturday between playoff games. It will be enormous momentum after our victory on the 16th. The room rate for anyone flying in or just wanting to get hammered and stay will be $49.00. (that's frickin cheap)-

The menu will be as follows:

• Caesar salad
• Chicken with brown sauce
• 3 cheese risotto
• Choice of 3 deserts(details to follow)
• 2 bottles of wine will be on every table included in ticket price

The price is $40 per person. Fosters on tap will be free with ticket purchase, wine at the bar will be $4.00 and liquor will be available at the standard bar prices.

Pay for your banquet tickets with PayPal

Singles ($40)

Couples ($80)

Formal invitations will be sent out shortly; Jason is working on the updated mailing list.

Hojon and Craig Tarr will be organizing a friendly Old Boys vs. current players match that Saturday as we don't have any regular fixture scheduled. Hopefully, this should generate enough interest to get many of the out of town Old boys in. $49.00 room rate - enough said...

We also will need some help coordinating the silent auction and awards.

Thanks - see you at training on Tuesday,
Clinton

Introducing Evan Jerald Wilkey

03/01/2005
Congrats to Scott and Suzanne Wilkey on the birth of their son, Evan Jerald, last Tuesday. EJ weighed in at a stroppin' 9 lbs, 5 oz. Anyone else thinking a number 2 jersey might be in his future?

Training Notice

02/28/2005
Effective this Tuesday, March 1, and until further notice, we will be training under the lights at the Lowery softball fields (6th Ave at Dayton, northwest corner). Trainings will run from 7:00 to 9:00 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is kind of late but, hey, it'll beat the h-e-double-hockey-sticks out of training in the Safeway parking lot. Thanks to Whitey for getting this set up for us.

Reminders:

• We have our first game this weekend vs. Ft. Collins. Kickoff will be at 1:00 at Garland Park Players need to get out to practice this week and be ready to kick off the season with a big win.
• Everyone needs to get CIPPed immediately. The easiest way for everyone is to just go online and do it yourself at: www.usarugby.org and click on membership registrations. It will only take you a few minutes. If for some reason you can't do it online see me and we can get you registered.
• Everyone also needs to pay dues. It is $75/season for new players and $125/season for returning players. If you register for CIPP online then that fee will be deducted from your dues. Again, the easiest way to do this is to just pay online over on the club membership page.
• Also be sure to read Nigel's report of last Saturday's scrimmage over on the Coaches Corner.

Nigel Needs More Bodies for Intra-Squad Scrimmage This Saturday

02/23/2005
Hi all,

Hope you are all well... This Saturday I would like to enlist the help of some/all of you.

As this is the first weekend of rugby for the Denver Highlanders - I am running a trial match - but am a little short on numbers thus far - and after all some/all of you should/could play in the B’s... I have sent this group email to 24 people - enough for a strong 2nd side!!!

Anyway - we have some excellent players this season - they have worked hard on their fitness and are looking forward to the first run - but we need some players to make up the opposition. If you would like to put your boots on for 20 minutes odd and have some fun (the teams are picked at random - so you will not be made cannon fodder of) come out to the Jake at 1pm on Saturday...

Oh and if you enjoy it - you are more than welcomed to come play B’s this season - we have a full B schedule...

Your help is very much appreciated!

Thanks,

St. Valentine's Day Massacre Report

02/15/2005
On February 12th a motley side of Highlanders braved the mountain weather and potential wrath of girlfriend's and wives (playing rugby on Valentine's day weekend!) for the annual Breckenridge 10's St. Valentine's Day Massacre.

The Highlanders played Durango, winning 2 - 1 with a last minute try to seal the victory in the first game of pool play. Next the Highlanders toppled the School of Mines with yet another last minute go ahead try, winning 3 - 2. The Highlanders played to their strengths all weekend with good rucking, quick hands and tight defense; however, the 1-foot snow drifts and Friday night drink-ups took their toll. In the final game of pool play, The Highlanders fell to Queen City after some awful refereeing and usual cheap play by QC. Despite finishing 2-1 in pool play, the Highlanders won the at-large bid and advanced to the semi finals.

In the semi-finals, the novelty of playing rugby in the snow definitely had worn off with most players remembering why we like 15's on grass so much better. Regardless, we played a tough match against The Blue Goose, loosing in sudden death overtime 3 - 2 after loosing several go-ahead opportunities in regulation due to bad ball handling conditions. All in all it was a good weekend with Eternal-Rookie Doug Pobar scoring two tries and dropping two tries, followed by lots of typical zulu boasting. I think his Zulu count is up to about 20 laps around the pitch by now, if he ever goes through with it. The Highlanders also made a few recruiting contacts with Mike from Boulder and Clint, formerly of Breckenridge.

The Massacrees:
Clinton Camp
Matt Mains
Bryan Ellsaesser
Keith Dujay
Time Guerra
Pete N.
Gary Nicks
Doug Pobar
Dustin Daugherty
Brad Nelson
John Taylor
Mike Herskowitz

Highlanders Return to Garland Park

02/14/2005
This spring will mark the glorious return of the Denver Highlanders to Garland Park as the venue for all home games. Garland was the home pitch of the Highlanders from the mid 70's through the early 90's and is the site of many a glorious DHRFC victory. For those of you who have not yet had the pleasure of playing at Garland, it used to be common knowledge that Garland had the best grass in the Union. Hopefully the Denver Water Board policies of the past few years have not ruined that distinction. Garland Park is located at the corner of East Tennessee and South Kearney streets in Denver, a scant 8 blocks from our training facility and former home pitch at Jacobs Park. You will find a detailed map at the bottom of the Fixtures and Events page.

And the next time you run into one of those chumps from Queen City, thank them for poaching our Saturday park permits at the Jake that facilitated this move back to our historic home.

Barbos Chicken Out - Match Cancelled

02/10/2005
The season opening match against the Green Slime has been officially cancelled by the Barbos. Given last year's dismal Super League performance (2 Wins + 3 Losses + 2 Ties = 0 Playoffs), they must have decided to open their season by scheduling a match against someone they thought they had a better chance of whuppin'.

AGM Report

01/25/2005
The 2005 Annual General Meeting was held last Thursday at the Denver Community Church (thanks Rev. Frank). The purpose of the AGM is to discuss the state of the club and to elect the new officers to administer the club for the upcoming year. Obviously this assumes there will be enough of the membership in attendence to make the discussions meaningful and the elections representative of the club's desires. Unfortunately this was not the case and we were forced to table the elections for President and a new Board of Directors position as the result of a less than inspiring turnout for the meeting.

The good news is that we always seem to have several members of our club that are willing to take the responsibility upon themselves to volunteer for a number of these administrative positions. John 'Zilla' Rohner will serve as VeePee for this year, Matt Mains will perform the Secretarial duties, and Mike Drummond (a notorious glutton for punishment) will be retained as the Treasurer. Other volunteers include: Social Committee - Jason Andrews, Mike Herskowitz, Clinton Camp; Match Secretary - Chris Sykes; CIPP Coordinator - Bryan Ellsaesser; Players Representatives - Kyle Fenton, Mark 'Chooch' Jewell; Collections - Matt Mains; New Player Liaison - Chooch. The Board of Directors will also remain unchanged for 2005.

Thanks to all of you guys for stepping up to the plate and taking the initiative to help run the club (we all know it won't run itself despite some inadvertant attempts to try this in the past).

The club is entering the 2005 campaign in the black financially (well mostly). Unfortunately, our projected operating expenses are going to require that we raise dues to $125 per season ($250/year) for the active players to keep us that way. It has not yet been determined whether rookie player dues will need be raised as well. Be looking for new Paypal links on the membership page in the near future and take advantage of a payment plan that best suits your needs. Player dues include our CIPP registration fees which amount to an average of about $62 per player by the time USARFU, WRFU, and ERRFU get done sticking their grubby little hands in our wallets. Each player should anticipate being touched up for at least the CIPP portion of their dues in the next couple of weeks as ERRFU is being pretty anal with its enforcement policy this year (go figure). Basically ERRFU is saying that no one will be allowed to play without having a confirmed (paid) CIPP registration on record at least one week prior to their first match. This means all players will need to be registered no later than 2/19 in order to be eligible for the match against the green slime the following weekend. Bryan Ellsaesser will be providing more details on what we need to do to get registered once he gets it sorted out with ERRFU (USARFU and WRFU are making it easy to get their parts of it done online but apparently ERRFU has so far missed the bus to the electronic age).

In other news, the Old Boy's party on Jan. 15th looks like it was a resounding success. The club essentially broke even on costs so the many pledge forms that are still oustanding should be gravy for the Highlander legacy fund. It was really great to see so many representatives from all generations of the club in attendance. Sonny, Ranucci, Kelton, Snake, Skram, Marshburn, Aido, and Mud Duck are just a few of the fellas we haven't seen in a while that came out of the woodwork to join the usual cast of suspects for this one. Kudos to Tarr, Hojon, Howell, Sloan, Farmer and all the others who helped organize the event. I can do without seeing Warpig in any more mini skirts anytime soon though - can anyone say "Epi-Lady?"

Zweck-Bronner and Zilla have more gear than you can shake a stick at. The new kit bags look great by the way. If you are in need of a track suit, hoodie, #2 polo, etc., please get in touch with Steve. Zilla is still your man if you are needing a new kit bag. Also, if you have a track suit top that shed its screen printing in the washing machine, get it back to Zweckie and he'll get it taken care of for you (the manufacturer acknowledges there was a problem with the screen printing on the warmup tops and will correct it for you, gratis). And special thanks to Paulie Mason for helping us get the store off the ground.

[My Two Cents*]
I'm sorry but I'm feeling a real need to sound off on something here. The turnout for this meeting was, in a word, pathetic. The lack of anything remotely resembling a quorum made conducting any kind of elections to fill the remaining vacant positions impossible. It's too bad that we have a club that can get over 100 old boys and their spouses to pay $20 a head for a pasta dinner in a carpentry shop in the barrio - yet a mere 5 days later can only muster 20 or so active members to elect this year's governing body. This kind of apathy is nothing less than astounding to me. We all realize that rugby is a very time consuming passion but the success of this club depends on your participation off the pitch as much as it does on. Trust me, I know we all have lots of other things we could be doing in our spare time, but if the active members don't seem to care about the state of the club then why should one cranky old fart with an attitude problem give a sh*t either? I can only hope that the upcoming training sessions will be much better attended or you guys are liable to be in for a long season. As our ol' buddy Chief liked to say, "It's time for you guys to either defecate or discommode..."

St. Valentine's Day Massacre

01/24/2005
WHAT:  31st Annual St. Valentine's Day Massacre 10's Tournament
WHEN:  Saturday, February 12, 2005
WHERE:  Carter Park, Breckenridge, CO
WHY:  Because rugby and partying is what we do...
WHO:  Whoever feels like it

It's that time of year again. Blue Goose RFC has graciously extended us an invitation to this year's Massacre. The entry fee is $225 per side ($200 if paid before Feb 1st). This is not a club sponsored event so the entry fee will have to be provided by the participants. If you've never experienced 10's rugby at 9,000 feet in the dead of winter then you are in for a real treat. Stay over and ski on Sunday too if you are so inclined. This tourney is always a blast, if you are intersted please contact Clinton as soon as possible for more details.

Presenting the "Coaches Corner"

01/21/2005
Today we are happy to present to you a new section of this site called the Coaches Corner. There you will find rants, raves, and otherwise useful messages from the Highlanders coaching staff. The first posts in this section include the announcement that regular training for the Spring 2005 season is set to begin next week and also contains a preseason training guide to assist you with your off day conditioning programs. Our first match against the green slime is set for Feb. 26 (and rumor has it they began their training the first week of January - so the time for us to get started training is NOW!).

Margaritas on the Rocks

01/21/2005
WHAT:  Training run at Red Rocks followed by Margaritas at The Morrison Inn
WHEN:  Saturday January 29th at 3:00 PM
WHERE:  Meet at Old Hole At 2:25 PM
WHY:  FITNESS and Team Bonding
WHO:  Active Highlanders, Old Boys, Future Highlanders

Please contact Mike Herskowitz NO LATER than January 26th so we have an idea of numbers which should be high as we all need to work on our fitness. 303.771.0034 or 303.517.4996

Spring 'Shedyule' and Calendar of Upcoming Events Posted

01/14/2005
We here at DHRFC.org have added a new page to this site where you can now find the Spring 2005 match schedule and a calendar of upcoming events at the click of a button. Granted it's a bit thin right now but it can only be as good as the information that we have been provided. There's a whole list of other club officials you can complain to if you find the details to be a bit sparse.

'Tis The (Pre)Season

01/04/2005
Happy New Year - now get off your butts and start training. The following is a message from the coach:

In two months time we will be taking the field for the first game of the new season.

This coming season - as you all know by now - is my last season, couple that with the fact that we have a LOT of outstanding players - if we all start our fitness NOW - and work towards a common goal (playing to our potential) and push ourselves to get into the best shape (fitness - Zilla - not round) possible - we will have an amazing season...

Since this is my last season - I want to go out with a Bang - i.e. getting the Highlanders to the highest level possible - we have talked about sweet 16 - well thats a great goal - but lets look inside our team for success - lets make playing to our full potential and becoming one big cohesive unit our goal - lets make our strengths stronger - and make fitness our priority... I firmly believe that we have the players to have a HUGE season... if we all concentrate on getting our fitness to an appropriately high level - then we will ALL achieve.

I was really proud of the way that we finished last season and if we beat Boulder again our first play off game will be at home. So let's work together to become one cohesive unit and make sure we do not let our team mates down by not being fit.

I will being sending out a training play shortly - but for right now - start running at 60% or greater for 30-40 minutes, 4-5 times a week. Secondly - start thinking about your individual goals for next season- make them smart, measurable, acheivable, realistic and timely. I am so looking forward to the up-coming season and hope that you all are as well...

See you soon,
Nigel Smith