The Barometer Online

Issue date: 5/6/09 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Cory Reed Oregon State rugby club president Kansas Mendelson looks to pass the ball during a team practice.

It is a sport unlike any other in the world. It is a sport that demands the stamina of a soccer midfielder with the mindset of a middle linebacker, a sport in which after bashing heads with an opponent you stand up, shake it off and make friends, it is truly the sport of gentleman.

This coming year, the gentleman of the Oregon State men's rugby squad look to make a big name for OSU in the world of rugby. The team features an array of talent, from lighting fast wings such as Anthony Newbold to seasoned veterans such as Cameron McDonnell.

The team even has three players who are traveling to Australia to learn from some of the best players in the world. With all the pieces of puzzle coming together, it looks to be an exciting year for the team.

"We are going to be a tough team this year," Kansas Mendelson said.

The men of rugby are putting in their hours and working hard to build for next season.

The team holds open workouts every Tuesday and Thursday on Peavy Field around 5 p.m. Newcomers are always welcome at the practices, and during the spring it is a great way to run off steam and take a break from the grind of schoolwork.

"There is a spot for everyone. If you put in the time and effort, there is some niche to be found that you can excel at," Sean Ostlund said.

The friendly atmosphere mixed with a competitive edge and comical bantering between the teams makes the practices and workouts an awesome time. As team president and longtime player, Mendelson exemplifies the spirit of rugby and put it best when he said, "We are just a bunch of full-grown men playing in the mud with our best friends."

The bonds and ties of brotherhood that come with playing any sport is common, but in the sport of rugby, the hands of friendship stretch across teams lines and even country borders.

Rugby is a sport that is played in most countries around the world and can be played with a variety of players, from seven-man games to 15-man games. Being a part of the rugby community is a like being a part of a worldwide club. No matter where you go, if there are other rugby players around, you will always have a home away from home.

Continued...

Page 1 of 2 next >

Article Tools