May 1, 2010

HIGHLANDERS SEASON COMES TO A PREMATURE END
 
This one hurts. It hurts bad.

The Highlander Varsity squad took the field Saturday against a SFGG team that came ready to play. Overall, the game was a see-saw battle and we had our moments, but for the most part we just couldn't finish. Several times we were one miss-fire away from either scoring or preventing a score. It was not the finale that we as a team had considered, but that 's the great thing about sport; sometimes the better team loses because the other team has a great day. On Saturday, our opponents had a better day. That's all.  Gate are a good team, let's not take anything away from them. They deserved to win Saturday, so congratulations to them and best of luck going forward.
 
On the day, though there were some outstanding individual performances. Marshall Diaz has completely overwhelmed the coaching staff and his teammates with his play the last half of the season. If he continues to develop, our backline next year, while graduating three amazing players and even better young men, in Rob Spurzem, Kyle Sorensen and sure high school All American Jake Anderson, is well positioned to strike fear into opponents lines. Returning Starters Grant Collins, Holden Youngert, Gaetano Mason and Matson Carver will group nicely with Diaz and a host of other up-and-comers like Bob Hoeber, Henry "Chopper" Swisher, Stewie Vaughn and possibly the very young and talented Skylar Whiting. 
 
On the day in the forward pack, Sophomore Jeff Calzaretta and Juniors Brendan Hardiman and Connor Smith again stood out. (Yawn) These three guys always seem to get into these write-ups. Calzaretta and Hardiman will compete for All American roster spots, while Smith is just a step behind (this year.) Youngster Louie LeMerle impressed all season and will be a major component in our success next year. A great season was had by Owen Werner and  Noa Namatesere, too. However Noa's various injuries have hampered him a bit. It is my hope that in the off season his body heals and he is able to return to form for next year.
 
And in thinking about forwards for next year, we are loosing several special players. The first that comes to mind is Sam Naranche. Once Sam (and the others for that matter) "came back" his game really began to take off. Sam will contribute almost immediately to the Cal Maritime program next year. We are also loosing Chase Neeley. Chase is as special as he is quirky. No Chase, I DON'T have any peanut butter! The most difficult task I will have next year is replacing my engine room. Luke Becker and Joey Starr really came on in their Senior year.  Both are fine young men, too. Luke is a quiet leader who lets his play do all his speaking while Joey is a bit more, shall we say "entertaining." Joey provided some of our most memorable moments this year.
 
Losing those quality players is difficult for me personally and as a coach. However, with returning boys such as Chase Rastegar, Demetrius Borge, Robbie Lewis along with youngsters Keegan Horton, Schular Freeman, Brandon Kenlivort and possibly a couple of incoming freshmen, our forward pack won't miss a beat.
 
I want to thank all of the players for their efforts this year. It was difficult at times, but I believe that we overachieved. Without the great coaching staff I have, none of this would be possible. Mateo Medrano, Kurt Scagliola, Jeremiah Bornstien, Paul Cingolani, John Van Der Wal and Kevin Coyle all contributed greatly to the success of the highschool program this year. Of course I can't forget  the youth coaches also. Coaches Wright, Moore, Farley, Rowell, Silviera and any others I missed, you are the backbone of this program. YOU get the boys hooked. Thank you.
 
Dick Gunn and the entire Board also have to be thanked for their tireless efforts. With out them, well the Club doesn't really exist!
 
If there is anyone I forgot to thank, I apologize. We all do this for the love of the boys, the club and the game of rugby. Lets build upon this for next year. Speaking of next year we have some exciting things happening, so stay tuned.
 
All in all a pretty good season. Funny how just a few years ago we were just happy winning one game; now we are extremely disappointed by an undefeated season that saw an early exit from the playoffs.
 
Awards Banquet on May 26, Golf tournament in June, 7's this summer...lots of goings on so stay tuned.
 
Coach Cingolani

 

2010 Vancouver, BC Tour, April 15-18

It is paramount that we begin by expressing our gratitude to Melissa and Gerry Hardiman for their hard work on this tour. First, had it not been for Melissa’s tireless efforts this tour would have never happened.  On Tour, Gerry worked hard to keep us on schedule and provided the details that we needed to know.

We arrived in Vancouver on Wednesday night, loaded the vans and headed to the Sylvia Hotel, which is directly across from English Bay. The hotel had all the old world charm of a turn of the century bed and breakfast. At first glance I thought that staying here might not have been the best idea. More on that later. A quick meeting to go over the itinerary, some rules and expectations and it was off to bed, because we had our first match Thursday afternoon.

Thursday morning wakeup call had the boys assemble in the lobby in their training attire. We walked across to the beach for some team building exercise to get the blood flowing. (I kept hearing something about the water being really cold.) After the event, back to the hotel for breakfast, a meeting and some free time before heading to beautiful Stanley Park and our match at the fabled Brockton Oval.

The Oval has been changed from the 12,000 seat stadium that it once was. The best way to think about it is to compare it to the old Kezar Stadium in SF. The history remains the same as does the pitch, but the surrounding structure has been altered a bit. None the less, the boys got a kick out of the setting and got ready for what was going to be one of the best games this team has ever been a part of.

Match VS. Vancouver College Prep Fighting Irish

While the boys were taking in the sights and views of the pitch, our administrators and coaches took the opportunity to meet the other coaches. They were a great bunch of guys as was the Head Master of the School who also came to the game.

The match began with some hard hits from the kickoff. Then five minutes in, Center Jake Anderson put up a perfect chip-kick to the corner. Wing Kyle Sorensen tracked it down, picked up the ball in stride and sprinted into goal. Try! Highlanders, 5-0. The play went back and forth for 10 minutes or so, until Anderson found his way to the tryline with a perfectly executed crash-ball. Highlanders, 10-0. A couple of minutes later, some sloppy play in our red zone led to an Irish try and the half ended 10-7.

The second half started with the Irish dotting down after repeated attempts in our red zone. We defended brilliantly for many phases, but just wore down. The conversion was successful, and the Irish had a 10-14 lead. Five minutes later the funniest try of the season was carried out. Joey Starr had been on the sidelines for approximately 4 minutes while we looked at his collar bone. He had delivered some big hits in the previous goal-line stand and one caught him wrong.  As play continued, Coach Medrano was telling Joe to return to the field. Joe was slow to move and began walking onto the pitch. As he did, play came toward him. The ball was passed to Sorensen on the outside. Starr waited for him to run past, jumped in line, yelled for the pass, which Sorensen delivered perfectly at about the 20m line then Starr carried three defenders the last 10m to dot down in the corner. Our sideline burst into laughter, as did Starr. Now the Highlanders were back on top 15-14.

Three minutes later another perfectly placed chip kick was gathered by Jake Anderson and he touched down for his second try of the match. Anderson hit his own conversion and the score was now 22-14 Highlanders. However, our fortunes began to change. Even though we were stealing a lot of their ball in the tackle, we were also losing a lot of our own. The Irish scored two quick tries to take the lead 26-22 with only about 9 minutes to play. Because we were on tour, the decision was made to play most every player on the bench. Much to the dismay of some of the starters and others, many substitutions were made. The play went back and forth, but in the 65^th minute, flyhalf Mike Dupar found his way to the line and dove over for the try. Anderson hit the sideline conversion and we were back on top 29-26 with less than 4 minutes to go. The Irish attacked violently, but we withstood their charges, several times thwarting their advances. Robbie Lewis, playing at prop, held up one of their players in-goal. Stu Vaughn delivered a devastating positive-grade tackle on their wing at the goal line; Henry “Chopper” Swisher was cutting down ball carriers like Paul Bunyan with his axe. The game ended with the Irish deep in our red zone. Jake Anderson and Jeff Calzaretta were voted men of the match by their coach. Scrumhalf Holden Yungert was also mentioned by their team as having an outstanding game. Of special note, Brendan Hardiman, Marshall Diaz and Charlie Smith all stood out for the Highlanders. A TERRIFFIC win for the team. The rain started, but it couldn’t dampen the spirits of the players. They ALL participated in a true team victory.  And as our fearless leader Dick Gunn stated, “…Highlanders: 1 and 0 at the Oval.”

We changed and walked through Stanley Park to the historic Vancouver Rowing Club to be hosted by the Irish. After a meal we headed back to the hotel for some free time and early bed check as Friday was going to be a long day.

Friday: Off to Whistler and Monkido

The early wakeup call was very difficult for most of the boys; seems that there was lots of fun being had the previous night. But we jumped into the vans and were off to Whistler Mountain for a fun team activity at the Monkido ropes course. The boys had a great time and it is still up for debate how far I got on the course. Some say only a quarter of the way, but I say a third. Oh well. There were several snowball fights during the day, and Connor Smith needed to be reminded how NOT to construct a snowball, according to Matson Carver. After the ropes course, we went back down the hill to beautiful Whistler Village. The atmosphere was stunning and the boys had a great time acquiring free shaving cream by hula-hooping. We had a team meal at the Old Spaghetti Factory and celebrated Jeff Calzaretta’s birthday by having all of the wait staff and other patrons sing him “happy birthday.”  For some reason, I really don’t think it was his birthday, though….  Anyway, back into the vans for the two and a half hour drive back to Vancouver. The boys had a great time in Whistler and the talk was that they want to come back. One highlight I forgot to mention was seeing a small bear walking on the side of the road on the way up. Very cool to see wildlife somewhere other than a zoo.

Back at the hotel and a quick meeting then an hour of free time before bed check.  We had a long drive to the game on Saturday.

Match Saturday in Delta, VS the British Lions U-19’s

Breakfast and departure for Delta was early Saturday morning. The rain had begun late the night before and the boys thought they were in for a soggy game. After several attempts to find the pitch, we were led into the park by one of their coaches. Think “Field of Dreams” when you picture this setting. Nothing around for miles but flat, farm and cattle land then in the middle of it all a 15 acre rugby complex. Very, very cool. The fields were in tremendous condition, because, according to tour Manager Gerry Hardiman, they had been properly designed and constructed with great drainage and sand as a turf base. So, even though the rain was falling, the ground was still in PERFECT condition for a game.

The matched started, as did the previous one, with the Highlanders scoring in the fourth minute, when we stole their ball and launched several phases which culminated in a Matson Carver try. Highlanders, 5-0. Five minutes later, a penalty against us cost us three points and it was 5-3. That’s when things got a bit shaky. Flanker Louie LeMerle stole their ball and was attempting to clear when he hit the ground hard. As a precaution, he was taken for medical treatment and released a few hours later. Special thanks to Dick Gunn for going with Louie.

The boys were shaken that their friend and teammate was injured, but in a way it lit a fire under them. We scored at the 12 and 15 minute marks, (Carver’s second of the half and Rob Spurzem, who made a nifty move on a defender to dot-down in the corner.) The Brits came back to score two tries of their own at the 22 and 32 minute mark. That series of events may define this team for the rest of the season and well into next year. The half ended 17-13, Highlanders.

During halftime it was pointed out that we were snipping and chastising each other for our mistakes. What needed to happen was to pick up each other when we made a mistake. We needed to communicate better and play like a team, not 15 individuals. Well, the second half proved that they took the half time talk to heart. We scored two more Jake Anderson tries (who now had 5 tries and 6 conversions for 37 points in two days.) and won the game in which everyone got to play, by a score of 38-18. Of special note in this game were Prop Chase Neeley, #8 Brendan Hardiman, Center Marshall Diaz, Wing Henry Swisher, Flyhalf Mike Dupar (who has a great future in this game if he sticks with it!!!!) and Lock Chase Rastegar. Additionally, Freshmen Schuylar Freeman and Keegan Horton both contributed well on the field. This game also saw the return to the pitch of Wing Troy “That’s Not Water!” Gaub after a long recovery from injury. Jake Anderson and Jeff Calzaretta were men of the match…again.

We were graciously hosted with a BBQ and a presentation ceremony. Then back to Vancouver for some free time and the night’s teambuilding activity.

Dinner was at a nearby restaurant. And when I say nearby, I mean in Seattle. (At least that’s where it seemed we walked to.) The meal began with a toast to the team being undefeated in Canada, but I think it fell upon deaf ears as much more attention was being paid to the pretty waitresses!

The night’s team activity was kicked-off by a very, very heartfelt and inspiring speech from President Dick Gunn. I won’t talk about it here, because it was for the touring team only, but I know that the players and coaches all felt a little more special after he addressed the team. Anyway the team event was fun and it seemed like the boys had a great time.

Sunday we woke leisurely, had brunch and traveled to visit the UBC campus. After a couple of hours there we departed for the airport then our great flight home.

The tour was extremely successful, and a great time was had by all. Thank you to all the administrators, parents, players, and coaches who made it possible. I also want to point out that the boys conducted themselves like gentlemen at all times, both on and off the field. They represented themselves, their team, their club, their families and their country in a manner in which we all can take pride. It is my hope that we can continue to go back to Canada in the future.

 

April 5, 2010

Varsity/JV

22 March 2010

U14

as seen in the Marin IJ Youth Sports Blog:

MARIN U14 RUGBY REMAINS UNDEFEATED

In a busy week of rugby, the Marin Highlanders U14 team traveled to Mountain View to take two games Sunday from the Peninsula Seahawks, by a combined score of 80-10.

In the A side game, the Marin side ran in seven tries, with Matt Parks (Kent MS), Sam Chronert (Ross School) and Schuyler Whiting (Kent) all scoring twice. The game ended with a lopsided but redemptive score of 41-5, as Peninsula had torched Marin twice in league play last year.

In the second match, Marin's younger and less experienced team took the field against a large Peninsula side and completely overwhelming the home team, posting a score of 39-5. In a game dominated by Marin's forwards and marked by aggressive rucking and tackling, one try was scored by Anthony Ramirez (Novato Charter), two by Stephen Bohman (Lagunitas MS) and three by White Hill forward Oscar Garcia -- all forwards. Significant contributions were also posted by Damien Mush, Wylie Moore and Alex Herz of Hall MS.

Marin had to overcome some soreness on Sunday, as on Friday they faced what is considered to be the strongest team in Southern California: the San Diego Mustangs. The Mustangs were on a tour of Northern California, and Marin hosted them at the neutral site of Treasure Island.

It was a tale of two halves, as Marin was missing four starters due to Friday traffic, and San Diego -- undefeated on the season -- came out hard, setting Marin's forwards on their heels and disrupting the flow of Marin's backline. San Diego ran in two quick tries and in general dominated both possession and momentum. After halftime, with Marin at full strength, the tide quickly turned due to strong running in the centers by Felix LeMerle (Del Mar) and courageous tackling by Marcus Viscardi (Mill Valley MS).

Left wing "Blackhawk" Chronert put Marin on the board first with a feinting run that left San Diegans strewn across the pitch, and Schuyler Whiting followed up soon after with a score of his own.

Whiting inadvertently ended the match with two minutes remaining, as his tackle put one of the touring players out of the game; the referee whistled the game to a close and both teams remained undefeated, happy to play to a hard-fought 10-10 tie.

Marin, which is now 13-0-1, next takes on East Bay powerhouse Lamorinda, which boasts a 200-strong youth program, at St. Mary's College next Sunday.

14 March, 2010

U14

That was a terrific bout of rugby on Sunday.  Many thanks to the parents who devoted...oh, pretty much all of their weekend day to their kids' sports.
 
Diablo was pretty overmatched against our older and more experienced players, but it was our younger and less-experienced kids who really shined on the day.  HUGE leaps forward were on display as a group of largely 7th-grade kids played their best of the year, matching (in fact, scoring more tries) a first-division first team in Pleasanton.

5 March, 2010
 

Varsity Match
Friday night's game was a return to old school rugby in almost every sense of the word. As the Highlanders arrived at Cardinal Newman High School in Santa Rosa, I was met by Lynn Meister, head coach of the SR squad. As we chatted in the parking lot he warned me that the field was "... in really bad shape" and we were in for a sloppy affair. Seems that Lynn, even though he has been coaching at Newman for at least 20 years, still fights the same battles we do with field availability!  The field was indeed a mess, but we caught a break from mother nature and she held off the rain.
 
The game started slowly, each team testing one another out. But a well-placed Grant Collins kick to space found us with possession deep in Rosa territory. Several phases later Noa Namatesere, debuting in the #8 jersey found paydirt. Highlanders 5-0. Five minutes later the hard-charging punched in one of their own and it was 5-5. The see-saw battle continued with hard running and tackling from both sides. Our team was playing stellar defense, led by Charlie Smith. Chuck was everywhere making tackles and poaching Rosa ball. At 24 minutes, Collins was binned for an elevation tackle and we were playing a man down. But that didn't stop the Highlanders. Pressure defense produced another turnover and Namatesere found his way to the line again. Highlanders 10-5. The half ended that way and all in attendance eagerly anticipated the second half.
 
The second half started with some temporary personnel changes. On came Chase Rastegar, off went Luke Becker. Rastegar's mobility made an immediate impact. At the 45 minute mark, Hooker Jeff Calzaretta touched down, and Rob Spurzem, who was finding the footing practically impossible, converted. Highlanders 17-5.  Approximately nine minutes of dedication to our defensive and offensive style of play netted us another try at the 56 minute mark, when center Jake Anderson sliced through the SR defense from the 40 meter line. Again, Spurzem was true. Highlanders 24-5. Seemingly, the game was in hand, but the well-coached Santa Rosa boys had other ideas.
 
Calzaretta was sent to the bin with nine minutes remaining. This meant no more leader of the forward pack for the rest of the match. With Jeff out, Rosa pounced. They scored a quick one that was converted at the 62 minute mark. Then seven minutes later they scored and converted again. 24-19 Highlanders with two minutes remaining. Kickoff to Rosa, turn over, four phases, penalty on Rosa. Kick to touch by Anderson. Highlanders WIN!
 
A very hard fought match on a field that was the "great equalizer." Several players stood out on the night. Luke Becker was superb. He did all the little things right, and some of those things saved the game. Noa Namatesere, although he did score twice, it was his late game, bone jarring tackle deep in our red zone that saved a try. Holden Youngert played probably his best game as a Highlander. Not because of doing anything spectacular, but he provided leadership to the forward pack all night, and gave great service to the backline in sloppy conditions.  Once again, our acrobat, Kyle Sorensen found himself leaping through the air to keep a ball in play. That play was the catalyst for one of our scores.  Also catching the coaches eye was prop Owen Werner. Werner was forced into duty due to some disciplinary actions and performed very well. Freshman first timer Louie LeMerle showed that he is going to have great success in this sport in both the near and distant future. Additionally it was good to see the rust chipping off of flyhalf Grant Collins.
 
Great win for the team. We now must prepare for Friday's HUGE game against Montgomery.
 
JV Match.
Immediately following the varsity game. We brought up a few frosh / soph boys to fill out the somewhat depleted roster. Of note were half back Andrew Denett and center Henry Swisher. Both had great games on both sides of the ball.  Keegan Horton and Schular Freeman were forced into duty in the forward pack. Their play was very inspirational and both are pushing for end of season call-ups. The final score was15-12 in favor of the Rosa boys, but we played hard and with courage for the entire 70 minutes of the game. The success of the JV's have the coaching staff excited for the future of the club.
 
U14

Yesterday's win was our most hard-fought and rewarding of the season to date.  San Francisco/Golden Gate is defending NorCal Junior High champions, and yesterday we again came out on top of a rugged 24-5 win.
 
It felt just a bit hollow, though, as for the first time this year I was unable to get playing time for some of our kids.  That's not a feeling I'd like to repeat, and while it was needed due to SFGG's size and aggression, I'm glad that's the last time this year we'll have to do that.  Many thanks to the parents who shlepped out to Treasure Island and supported all the boys.

28 Feb, 2010

U14 Update:

The Marin Highlanders Junior High rugby team thumped the East Bay Diablos Sunday, taking the Highlanders' record to 8-0 on the season. Significantly, the Highlanders played a split side on the day, with the team's first side running up a score of 40-5 in the first half. In the second half, the team's younger and less experienced players took over and though they were outscored 29-5, contributed enormously to the overall 45-34 win.

Man of the Match awards, voted on by the opposing team, went to Jose Baeza in the forwards for his punishing tackles and runs; and to Ross School's Sam "Blackhawk" Chronert, who ran in a hat trick of tries from the left wing. 

Varsity Update:

6 Feb, 2010

.  

 

Sat. Saturday, January 23, 2010

 

The Marin Highlanders got into the win column today with a hard-fought match against a tough Peninsula Green side. The boys from the south bay were all business from the opening kick-off, and their hard hits proved it. After a rough first 15 minutes, the Varsity squad settled down and began to implement our patterned style of play. Offensively, things started to click and defensively, the Green were finding that there was no where for them to go.

 

The Highlanders got on the board at the 15, 25 and 30 minute marks with tries by Rob Spurzem, Jeff Calzaretta and Holden Youngert. The half ended 15-0 Highlanders.

 

The second half started with the Highlanders coming out a bit loose. The Green took advantage and scored at the 12 minute mark off a long run. The red and black settled down and took control again. Try’s were scored again at the 58^th, 61^st and 67^th minute marks by Jake Anderson (2) and Sam Naranche.  Several substitutions were made to get some of the reserves some time and Peninsula Green pushed one over at the 78^th minute. Final Score Highlanders 32-12 Peninsula Green.

 

Strong games by Calzaretta, Brendan Hardiman, Jake Anderson and new comer Brendan Henderson. Sadly, though Henderson, who had just figured this sport out sustained a shoulder injury that puts his season in jeopardy. The coaching staff will be hard pressed to find a replacement of his caliber. Heal fast, Brendan.

 

In the JV match, the Danville Oaks traveled to Redwood from the East Bay. The much larger Oaks squad gave our JV’s a good match. What we lacked in experience, we made up for in tenacity and courage. The JV’s executed the plan well and the coaching staff is excited for the future.  Of special note, Luke Becker, who starts on the Varsity squad in the engine room was called to duty as the numbers for the JV game were a bit short due to injury. Luke came in and played a second full match, this time in the back row. He was tremendous around the field, at the break down and with ball in hand. He led by example and the younger boys followed suit. 

 

In the backline, flyhalf Mike Dupar is this years biggest surprise (so far.) He ably guided the attack and defense against a larger, more experienced Oaks line. Mike has played his way onto the JV side and is pushing for time on the Varsity squad. He’s a sophomore!

 

There is a lot of work to do to prepare for next weekend’s KOT in Sacramento. We will be facing top competition in the Varsity International and JV brackets. There is plenty of rugby for everyone, so turn out to practice.

 

Coach Cingolani

 

 

Sat January 16th, 2010

Frosh/Soph side

Marin Highlanders F/S 7 - PITS 12

It was a close one this Saturday, playing 3, 20 minute periods in our first scrimmage against PITS. Every player managed to log playing time and all showed much promise as we kicked things off. I am looking forward to this season and working with the F/S team. Although rugby is a 15-man game, Dameon Reeder scored a try and Michael Dupar successfully converted.

 

2009 Season

May 18, 2009

A very, very hard fought game Saturday saw us come up a bit short. The closeness of the final score (27-30) was indicative of how close the game really was. There were six lead changes, big hits, long runs and just a tremendous display of heart from both teams.

Another typical game from Senior eightman Sam Sirell. Three tries, smothering defense and brilliant leadership. The biggest  challenge the coaching staff faces next year will be to replace Sam. His work ethic, leadership abilities, skills and desire to improve each week are traits all players should model. Senior Captain Matt Frederickson did not allow a stained hamstring to stop him Saturday. His attacking runs and hard hits set the tone for the backline, which was directed tremendously by Freshman Grant Collins. Another standout in the backline was Senior Will Johnston. He opened the game with a try, then aptly steered the back of the line. Brendan Hardiman and (when he finally arrived at the game) Noa Namatesere stood out in the forward pack and Omid Moayedi, also playing his last game in the Black and Red stripes was a difference maker each time he entered.

I could spend the next 10 pages talking about how each player on the varsity team (starters and reserves) has made a significant contribution to the success of the club this year. We have had players that were buried in the depth chart at the beginning of the season play incredibly well when called upon and we have had several "Iron Men" who have performed at a high level all season. The season was a marathon and the boys finished stronger than they started.

Not too shabby a season; Redwood Empire Conference Champions, San Diego Invitational Tournament Champions and Northern California Runners-up. Everyone from the parents to the board to the coaches to the players should be proud of what we have accomplished over the last six months.

I have said this many, many times and I will say it again. I have enjoyed having the seniors for the years they have played. It has been an honor being a part of their lives and I will miss them greatly. Next year will not be a "Rebuilding" year, rather a "Re-loading" year.

As I reflect on the boys we will be losing to graduation, I feel an overwhelming sense of sadness. But, as I look toward the future, I begin to get excited again because of the returning players and the development of the youth program. Marin Highlanders Rugby is on the the map around the state and across the nation. 

Thank you all for the gift of allowing me to coach this team.

David Cingolani

May 9, 2009

Two playoff games down, one more to go to become NorCal Champions. The boys put forth another stellar effort against a tremendous opponent. Travel arrangement problems led to East Palo Alto (EPA) arriving just minutes before the scheduled kickoff. The Highlanders were warmed up and ready to go as the much larger EPA side dressed and stepped onto the field. Team leaders Sirell and Wrench had some inspirational final words for the team and we were under way at the Redwood football stadium; bleachers filled with parents and families, friends, league officials and general rugby fans. The EPA Razorbacks were a man short and the Highlanders took advantage almost immediately. Three minutes in after a series of phases in open play, Junior Sam Naranche touched down for the TRY. Wrench hits the conversion. Highlanders 7-0. Twenty minutes of hard, physical rugby passes, with both teams testing out each others strengths and weaknesses. Off a penalty, Junior Joey Starr punches it in. Wrench is true again. Highlanders 14-0 25 minutes in. Three minutes later, EPA punches in after a penalty. Highlanders 14-5. Wrench hits a penalty kick three minutes later for a 17-5 lead. At the 35 minute mark, a series of patterned play lead to a tremendous backline try, where starting flyhalf, Freshman Grant Collins, who was moved back to fullback after sustaining a rib injury, entered the line. Outside center Matt Frederickson took a wide miss pass from Wrench, skillfully committed two defenders and placed a perfect pass to Collins bursting into the gap. TRY! Wrench good again. Highlanders 24-5 at the half. Little did we know that the game was to be a tale of two halves. The second half started out the same as the first, with Sophomore Brendan Hardiman scoring a TRY off a weak side move from a turn over. Conversion wide. Highlanders 29-5. But suddenly the giant had awakened. EPA scored at the 44, 52 and 60 minute marks. Only one conversion was good. With 10 minutes left, the Razorbacks had clawed and scratched their way back in. The next ten were all the players, coaches and fans could handle. The Highlanders defense repelled attack after attack on our 5 meter line. The turning point was Junior Chase Neely holding up the MASSIVE prop from EPA as he was attempting to touch down. Neely grabbed the ball and the player and prevented the try. The whistle blew. Scrum to the Highlanders on the 5 meter line. Ball shoots out the back of the scrum, EPA halfback dives, Highlander halfback Holden Youngert makes a desperation pass to Collins. Collins kicks to touch. Silence. Referee checks his watch, inserts whistle into mouth. Three long blows. Highlanders WIN and advance to the Northern California Championship match. Stellar play once again from Noa Namatesere, Sam Sirrell, Brendan Hardiman and Fred Flinstone and his buddy Barney Rubble. Bertie Wrench, forced into duty at the #10 spot was incredible, as he directed the game with surgeon-like precision. Match for all the marbles this weekend at Redwood; time and day TBD. We have had a lot of success so far at the State level. This team has the ability to contend at the National level, but we need your help. Our annual FUNDraiser is Saturday night. I am told donations are way down. Please, if you have anything you can donate please do so. Got a cabin in Tahoe? Some extra airline miles? What about getting a couple of others together to host a Mothers getaway night at someones house, or some of the Dads volunteering some time as a "work day" someone could bid on? The Club REALLY needs your help. Funds raised at this event go toward field expenses, scholarships for financially challenged players, medical supplies, etc. Please check out the website for more information. Hopefully, at the event Saturday night we can boast about being NorCal champions! Coach Cingolani.

 

May 3rd, 2009

The theme at practice last week was to forget the debacle we experienced at the PCIT tournament. The boy's responded well and had the best practices sessions that the coaches had seen in at least a month. We ended the week ready.

From the kickoff, players, coaches and spectators knew we were in for a battle. The hits were ferocious on both sides of the ball. The rate of play was comparable to a high-level college match. There was no way the Highlanders could sustain it...or could they?

A see-saw battle continued for the first 12 minutes. then, an untimely penalty from the Cougar forwards gave us a penalty at the 35 meter line, as the team readied itself for a kick to touch, and the subsequent lineout, the coach called for points. Kicker Bertie Wrench, just back from a shoulder injury that kept him sidelined for the last four weeks looked awkwardly at the sideline. "Points?" he asked.  "Points, Bertie!" the coach responded.

Wrench tee'd the ball up, gathered his thoughts and struck the ball. The kick was high enough, straight enough, but did it have the distance? As it fell from it's apex, it lost momentum. Both sidelines held their collective breath. The ball came down and struck the cross bar and bounced over! 3-0 Highlanders.

The battle continued with Sam Sirell leading the way with tremendous tackling and leadership. Brendan Hardiman (who unknowingly was playing the match of his young career) was doing all the small things right, while Sam Naranche was proving that he has arrived as a legitimate force in the back row. The young pack (6 of 8 returning next year) was going toe to toe with the much larger, experienced Del Campo forwards and we were starting to wear them down.

At 30 minutes, we stole one against the head (if you don't know what that means-ask) kicked it ahead and Holden Yungert fell on it in across the line. TRY! Wrench conversion good and we lead 10-0.

The game pounded back and forth for the rest of the half and the entire second half. Del Campo knocked on the door several times but their attack was thwarted time and time again. The final whistle sounded and the Highlanders were victorious, shutting out a very powerful del Campo Cougar team that had an easy time scoring lots of points against very tough Sacramento Valley Conference teams.

Sam Sirell and Grant Collins were selected by the Cougars as our men of the match.

The battery of Holden Yungert and Grant Collins were playing well beyond their years and experience level. This combination will grow together over the next few years and become tremendous. The midfield combination of Joe Blum and Matt Frederickson (Fred and Barney) were steady and strong. Not a tackle was missed by either one. Blum's hard-charging runs up the gut of the defense were a compliment to Frederickson's wide-open slashing advances.

Phase after phase, ruck after ruck, tackle after tackle the tight five were tremendous. Jeff Calzaretta (only a FRESHMAN) who has started every game this year and his front row henchmen Noa Namatesere and Chase Neely attacked and defended as if this was the last time they would ever take the field. Namatesere was especially spectacular, as was his brother Illitia.  The elder Namatesere was surpurb in the lineout and in the loose. He gathered our throws as well as he disrupted the Cougar lineout. Joe Starr, back into the starting lineup after injury was the force we had been missing for a few weeks. When Starr needed to be spelled, Senior Tyler Woods entered and played superbly, putting the pain of a separated shoulder and a head injury in his pocket and going to work. Omid Moayedi entered and exited often; spelling front rowers and second rower. His solid play will be a key for our success going forward into the playoffs. Moayedi, Woods and I. Namatesere are going to be greatly missed when they graduate.

Last week, the coach contacted Ryan Wilson. Ryan, (a redwood graduate) has had a long and distinguished rugby career. Coach Wilson came out to help with the "deep three" (wings and fullback.) Starter Sorensen was injured eight minutes in. Santiago Criado Ros entered and played the best game of his short career, while Senior Will Johnston, (who has proved that hard work, practice and dedication leads to great success) was exceptional. Will displayed the skill and knowledge needed to be successful at the next level. What he lacks in speed, he greatly makes up for in tenacity, skill and game savvy. I am sure that he will have success next year if he plays at college in Wales. However, the difference maker was Bertie Wench.

Wrench, also back from injury skillfully directed the back of the attack from the #15 jersey. His skills are only matched  by is knowledge of the game. With him in the back, the backline had a sense of calm and confidence knowing he could correctly steer the ship.

Coaches Medrano, Scagliola and Van Der Wal should all be proud of the way the forwards played. Their coaching abilities have contributed greatly to the success of the players and the team. Coach Bornstein, as always has been a great asset both on and off the field. Our backline is better off because of him.

The Administration is owed a great amount of thanks. Their guidance and support has allowed 100% of our success. They allow the coaches to coach, the players to play and the parents to enjoy with all of their hard work.

Two more wins to go. 

April 20th, 2009 -- The Marin Highlanders Junior High program notched a surprising tournament victory in the year-ending California Junior Rugby Classic yesterday, outscoring their opponents 65 - 5. 

In only its first year of competition, Marin's junior high program fielded nearly 40 players from throughout the county, playing league matches against top competition such as San Francisco/Golden Gate and Peninsula Seahawks.

The first-ever California Junior Rugby Classic was organized by the Dixon rugby progam and attracted 16 teams from throughout Northern California.  The tournament was divided into two divisions containing two pools of four teams each, "Green" -- which was won by San Francisco/Golden Gate -- and "White."

Opening White Division pool play against a smaller Sierra Foothills squad, the Marin Highlanders raced to a quick 36-0 victory, highlighted by two long tries from Lagunitas Middle School 8th-grader Dameon Reeder.  The second pool match found Marin on the winning end of a 19-5 score against perennial powerhouse Lamorinda, a game highlighted by scores notched by Kent Middle School 7th-grader Schuyler Whiting and White Hill Middle Schooler Martin Birmingham.

The sweep of pool play put Marin into the Championship game against the rising program of Granite Bay at 3pm with the Sacramento heat edging past 90 degrees.

The flow of the championship match was almost completely determined by Granite Bay, as their strong forward play and precision kicking nullified Marin's dynamic back line, and the first-half whistle ended without a score.  Marin's forwards were largely responsible for holding territory with newfound rucking asperity and fierce possession tactics.

The intensity, already high due to the aggression and cohesion displayed by both teams, ratcheted up as time wound down in the game with no scores, and with only four minutes remaining in the game, Shuyler Whiting blasted through no fewer than six attempted tackles to score on a frenetic gallop that set off a spectacular celebration on the sidelines.

Marin added another score by Del Mar 8th-grader Louis LeMerle as full-time sounded for an incredibly hard-fought championship, 10-0.  LeMerle was named Forward of the Tournament for the White Division, and significant contributions were added by Mika Kakin (Lagunitas M.S.), captain Andrew Dennett (Ring Mountain), Will Wright (Lagunitas M.S.), Conor Rounds (Nicasio School), Keegan Horton (Marin Horizon) and Christian Gordon (White Hill).

The Championship game was the last of the season for the Junior High squad, and we're looking forward to building on the successes we've found this year, and to graduate to the Frosh/Soph program many outstanding players.  It also provides a coda for the successful integration of the Marin Youth Rugby Program and the Highlanders, as several graduates of the Youth program merged with the outstanding organization and resources of the existing Highlanders program.

We'd like to extend our deep thanks to the parents of our team, who took on a new sport with verve and enthusiasm.  Special thanks to Criss Calderon, who stepped up as Social Chair, and Pippa Vanderwal, who was instrumental in our registration processing. 

Big props go to the coaches and administrators of the Highlanders, who provided our squad with unbelievable support, coaching help, facilities and administrative guidance in our first year. 

A special thanks and gratitude go out to our players, who grew and performed at a level I thought was, frankly, unbelievable.

Thanks to you all for the great season!

Highlanders Family,

It's been a long time coming, but I can now say congratulations to the 2009 Redwood Empire Champions:

                     The Marin HIGHLANDERS

Congratulations and thank you to the Board, the players and coaches and to all of the parents.

A side severely weakened by injury, college trips, illness as well as family and school obligations worked hard last week at practice and boarded the bus with nervous excitement for the traffic-laden trip to Montgomery High School last Friday night. The trip up was quiet while we relaxed by watching "Anchor Man" on the bus' DVD player. The movie is a classic, and Chase Neely' trademark cough-like laugh was heard approximately every 45 seconds.

We arrived to a deserted Montgomery campus. (I was later informed that they were on Spring Break) Their coach didn't have any keys to locker rooms, so a couple of the Montgomery players were kind enough to kick in a door so we could have access to the facilities. (Thank goodness for ingenuity!) As we dressed, several call-ups from the frosh / soph were announced as reserves for the varsity game. Congratulations to Ben Kern, Chase Rastegar, Bob Hoeber and Owen Werner, as their hard work for Coach Van Der Wal has afforded them an opportunity with the Varsity team. As such, at the conclusion of the Frosh / Soph season, those boys will be invited to stay with the Varsity for the duration of the season.

The team started quickly with a Joe Blum TRY six minutes in. Joe has been an amazing addition to this year's team. First-time flyhalf Collins converted and we were up 7-0. Sam Sirell scored the first of his two tries, four minutes later. 12-0. But, the best was just 12 minutes away.

In the barren bleachers sat a group of four adults. Two of whom were Santiago Criado Ros' parents who had flown in from Spain. At 20 minutes, "Santi" was subbed into the game. Two minutes later, he took a pass from multiple-phase play, beat his opposite to the sideline and raced 30 meters in for the score. I will be asking his parents to attend every game here on out, as we are going to need the points!  A couple more tries (Fredrickson and Noa Namatesere) and the half ended 27-0.

The Second half opened with a few substitutions inserted into the game. Six minutes in, Montgomery scored a try of their own off of a penalty and several missed tackles by us. Sirell scored his second try 12 minutes later and Collins added the conversion. 34-7. Five minutes later, several more missed tackles lead to another Montgomery score and conversion-31-14. Montgomery was gaining confidence, we were frustrated and there was plenty of time left on the clock for Montgomery, a young team short on experience but long, and I mean very long, on heart.

At the 65 minute mark, Senior and Captain Matt Fredrickson, playing in his final league match for the Highlanders scored off turnover ball. Collins' conversion, along with a penalty kick three minutes later were the final nails in the coffin.  As the final whistle blew, the well-refereed match was over and The HIGHLANDERS  were league champions!

The bus ride home was highlighted by some great videos of one of our players that moonlights as an actor. After a loud and physical, shall we say "objection" to the viewing of these videos, the uprising was put down by two former props now on the coaching staff. The shows were viewed in good fun and a good time was had by all.

Stellar play was turned in by Chase Neely, Will Johnston, Ilitia Namatesere, Tyler Woods, Jack "...really, Coach, I was only trying to punch the ball..."  Zimmerman (a.k.a "sin bin.")  Additionally, several boys showed that our Club has much to look forward to. Youngsters like Holden Youngert, Jeff Calzaretta, Noa Namatesere, Grant Collins, Brendan Hardiman, Zac Neiman and Ben Kern showed signs that this team is going to be good for years to come.

Being the league champions means that our first playoff game is at home, May 2 versus the Sacramento Valley conference #2 team. I have heard rumors that that is the day of the SAT. I will try to schedule the game for a later start (about 2pm-will that work?) but we need to move a lot of pieces around to get the field.

I am very proud of each and every boy. They have all worked hard to accomplish this goal. However, we still have work to do. We have a tournament in San Jose on April 25 & 26 and our first playoff game on May 2. Three playoff victories will result in us being Nor Cal champions. Let's get it done!

Stay tuned to the HOTLINE for practice time on Saturday, April 19.

Coach Cingolani

Highlander Family,

With regard to the game....

That was a great game to be a part of. We should feel good about the fact that we played poorly. Very poorly. Yet, we were still in control of the outcome! that says a lot about the heart and character of the team. No matter how bad things were going, they never quit. Never gave up. We kept fighting. Even when calls and breaks weren't going our way, we worked and worked to overcome the obstacles. the boys should be PROUD of the fact that they did not quit.

We learned a lesson today. That lesson is that we can't play this game as 15 individuals. We have to play as one TEAM. We were individuals today, and Elsie exploited it. Again, though, we still controlled the game until the final seconds. This should be a wake-up call.

The good news is that we are still solely in first place. We win Friday night at Montgomery, we are league champions. The bad news is that Montgomery is going to be ready to play. It would make their whole season to beat us. We have to be ready.

To do so, we are going to have to work hard this week at practice. I wanted to be able to give you Tuesday off; I can't now. We need to get back to basics. We need to put in some work. We need to be ready for Friday night.