Winter 2001 Meeting Newsletter
Spring 2002 Campaign
After a strong finish to the fall season there is a buzz of excitement around the Club of what could be, as we get ready for the Spring 2002 season. But, as we all know, there is a huge gap between dreams and reality. For our goals and expectations to be realized we have to work hard, together. That is why we are having this meeting so that we can look each other in the eye and actually see whether the determination to commit and succeed is there or whether it was just the beer talking. In the last 3 weeks a lot of stuff has been going on behind the scenes to make the Club more enjoyable, more competitive and more successful. Funny how those three things always go together! I will try to summarize the plans put into place that will be discussed at the meeting. These are just places to start - if anyone has good ideas either bring them up at the meeting or any time with me. If you buy me a beer I’ll listen to just about anything!
Squad Development: Back/Forward Leaders - Backs-Eric Aldinger; Forwards-Julian Reading
We will aggressively develop a squad this season. We cannot sustain a drive to the play-offs without depth. 3 areas: -
- The Back and Forward Leaders plus two more senior players will scout the B-side matches. A meeting directly after with the coach will be used to promote stand out players.
- The first 6 matches from Richmond to Gorge will be used to work in these players.
- The next 2 matches will be dress rehearsals working a 22-man play-off squad.
This means that some A-side guys will be playing B-side as we develop the squad. Your experience will really help the team so enjoy this part of the season!
We want to get you to practice and matches and to make sure that you feel part of Club decisions and successes. Get your schedules in and give us your commitment level. If you get frustrated (hey we all do at one time or another) get us to help you - that’s our job!
| IMPORTANT DATES |
| Dec ?? |
Dave + Troy Bowl |
| Dec 31 |
Art’s New Year |
| Feb 3 |
“Tool-Bowl” Party |
| Feb 16 |
Winter Banquet |
| Mar 9 |
First Match |
| Mar 14 |
SAVANNAH |
| Apr 20 |
MARFU |
| Sept |
ENGLAND! |
Commitment
This is essential for success. Players (especially senior players) need to lead by example. This means getting to practice on time and working hard. If you are injured, you are expected at practice to help out and keep up with plays. Everyone will be asked to sign his name to a letter of intent. This will bind you to the Club’s code of conduct and will show your teammates that you are serious about the season.
Winter Training
One day a week for indoor rugby training (SoccerPlex in Germantown) and one day a week at Gold’s (Bodypump session) through Jan and Feb.
Team Building
Over the winter we will have 3 outdoor sessions run by the Captain. These will be hard morning sessions in the snow, ice or 70F weather (who knows this year?) followed by a beer and college basketball. Dates will be posted very soon. There are also some fun things - Troy and Dave will set-up a football scrimmage in Baker Park then we’ll go back to their place for a cook out. Tool is having a Superbowl Party (and football rematch); Art is having a New Years Party and I’m sure we can fit in some Six Nations rugby sessions too.
Coaching
We are very fortunate to have Dave Gentzel come in as Backs Coach to assist Head Coach Jim Ford this spring. A game plan and playbook will be produced and circulated over the winter. Everybody will know what’s going on and what’s expected of him.
Club Structure
We are working to improve the Club structure. Allen Byrne will act as Governor to direct this. Don Briggs has taken on the role of Director of Rugby and I’m sure that our friends Chuck Bare, Dave Crome, Tommy and Mike Grunwell will figure into the plans.
ARE YOU IN FOR THESE EVENTS?
Please let Julian know ASAP!
- Banquet - Feb 16 $30
- Savannah - Mar 14-18 $140
- England Tour - Sept $700
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