Just Kick The Ball Already!

When on the field, every player has an opportunity to make split second decisions regarding their positioning, what to do with the ball, when to lead and when to follow.  For the best players on the best teams, these decisions become second nature; an automated response and instinct as to what's happening on the field.  For the absolute cream at the top, there is a 6th sense about their actions, putting them ahead of the opportunity, like the great chess players they see the game 3-4 moves ahead of everyone else.  In those instances, fear and hesitation give way to the automatic response of their own bodies-they move without forethought play by play and get the ball down the field and across the try line.

Kickers face a unique perspective.  The game clock is still ticking but when facing the ball on the tee and taking that deep breath, lining up their shot and performing their paced ritual, there isn't the same pressure of tacklers, blocked kicks and fumbles.  These are the moments a kicker faces alone.  As they put out their hand and step into the kick, while their team is there in spirit, they are alone with their thoughts and confidence that the ball will go exactly where intended.

SMRC Lady Dolphin Ann Leese

We face the same situations in our daily lives.  In the hectic day to day, we know how to move around and field our positions, we know who's at our right and left, we know where the ball is coming from and exactly how to put it where we want it to go.  Is this something we can handle or something we have to hand off? In our respective lives, we know these situations and how to respond instinctively.

But what happens to you mentally when suddenly you feel yourself in the role of the kicker.  Something has happened to stop the game and provide you with the opportunity to catch up, lengthen the lead, take the lead or even win the game.  You face that moment with your supporters and team mates feeling the pressure with you and at your back, but you are the one who has to kick the ball alone.

That's the type of position I find myself in--on one knee trying to line up the ball at an odd angle to the posts I've never kicked before.  I've made many more than my fair share of these kicks through the posts and as much as I've prepared myself mentally and in practice, I've just never kicked from this angle.  Curiously, I find myself feeling something I've never felt in this situation, a little afraid.  I'd much rather it not be such a game changing kick. I'd rather it not be against this team.  And I'd really rather the clock just be stopped for five minutes while I take a shot of whiskey.  I know traditionally my mind and body respond like I'm a Wilkinson/Halfpenny at times like these, but damn is this what Priestland felt like?  Holy crap I'm sympathetic now.

USA Eagles Chris Biller v Ireland June 2013

I look at my teammates and I see no worries.  Their advice is just "put it through like you have a thousand times before.  It will go between the posts and we'll win this challenge before us."  On the sidelines, our supporters echo the same sentiments.  The problem is none of these people are in my head standing between me and my inner idiot who says, "maybe someone else should take this kick, maybe the Captain should have called for a scrum instead".   We've all faced that inner idiot before; usually our lives, like the game, just moves too fast for us to have that conversation--that voice is drowned out by our confidence, instinct and experience.  Looking at my team again, my only hope is that I don't let them down--this is a game changer.  This one puts us on the map, sends us to Nationals, World Cup semis here we come....   Yeah guys, I know the clock is ticking, but seriously I wanna make sure this is lined up right.  And if I miss it, are we still going for burgers and beer after? Of course we are.  But am I still going to be the go-to (wo)man in this situation?

I'm certainly not going to photograph kickers the same way again.  I have been critical of kickers in the past--very critical at times.  And I know I'm gonna be critical of kickers in the future.  But maybe, next time, I'm just gonna criticize their inner idiot.  And everywhere I can I'm gonna stand between them and that little voice.

In the meantime...in my world, my Vice Captain is giving me that look.  Ball is set, one deep breathe, four steps back to the left,  hunch down, fists to prayer.  Look at the ball, look at the posts, look at the ball, look at the posts.  Left arm out, step into it and....could someone streak across the pitch about now and distract everybody?

Support(er).

sup·port (er) [suh-pawrt] - to sustain (a person, the mind, spirits, courage, etc.) under trial or affliction

I've been absent for a few weeks.  The hustle and bustle of life has kept me pretty busy.  But I've had a couple of hours of time sitting on an airplane and I've had some time to catch up on my rugby news, read what others have been writing and to think.

So what I'm writing about here isn't so much about rugby as it is about life.  I've been sitting on this for awhile and I kinda need to get something off my mind.

I love my life.  I have been blessed with drive, grace, empathy and a sense of purpose.  This year I've watched all of those things collide time and time again.  I've been tested and lost my way, only to find myself surrounded by friends and guided by faith.  And now I find myself with a strong wind at my back and my new direction charted.

This is in sharp contrast to others I care about.

This year, two players, whom I'm blessed to call friends, have had leg injuries that not only upended their careers, but their entire lives.   Their stories are their own to tell and most of you who read this know them.  Their friendship has been part of what has guided me this year.  I've spent a lot of time thinking about them and the new courses they are charting.  They leave me speechless.  There is nothing I can say that would equate what I think of them or feel in my heart.  As my friends heal, I hope they see in themselves what I see.

You see, when you watch a player, a friend, a brother be broken by the game, you get a new perspective.  A new perspective on your friends, your club and on yourself.  And then to watch them heal and rise....well, my God, it's breath taking. 

So when I read quote after quote and blog after blog about how sad it is that one person didn't make a roster or how sad it is to lose a player to French money or even long expositions about how expensive season tickets are in Europe, I find myself not caring.  I find my patience short with those who simply have not earned the right to complain.  For BOD, there will be another season.  For the Blues, there will be another center.  And for those who I hear complaining about those season tickets--I know you bought them anyway.  

I find my patience thin with myself as well.  Work is stressful and life throws little things my way and I find myself talking to people and laughing at myself as I moan about these ant hills.  I'm striving to change that.  

What drives me forward now is not just a love of rugby but a love of family.  I want to see my clubs (Eagles and SMRC) succeed not just because they're my team, but because I'm now part of something bigger.  I can see the success and the failures in the eyes of the people involved.  They are no longer just faces through my camera lens.  When you connect with people (players, supporters, family) on that level, it is a beautiful awesome moment.  

That connection is what will grow this game.  I hope every one who reads this makes connection with their team.   It will make you a better supporter. I hope that my fellow photographers make that connection as well.  See your teams as more than just the game and more than guys/girls on a pitch.  It will make you a better photographer. It will make you the best of supporters.

RWC Qualifiers...It's all fun and games until you face Canada....

I’m really torn about this week’s blog.  I spent a lot of time with the Eagles photographing practice and pre/post game.  No one can deny they play with some serious heart.  But it’s just not translating into wins.  Everyone and their uncle has or will be breaking down the game.  So I'm choosing to channel my inner psychic.  Let’s take a look forward and see how possibly the Rugby Gods did the USA Eagles a favor….?

Our road to the 2015 RWC was never going to be easy.  But, a 27-9 loss against Canada last week causes problems.  This gives them a wicked 18 point advantage going into the match on Saturday Aug 24^th in Toronto.  So to take our easiest road (Road 1), we now not only need to win, but win by at least 19 points.  And let’s be honest it means we have a lot of work to do this week.  But do we really want to beat Canada on Saturday?  Should we be so hell bent on hanging our hopes and prayers on beating the spread?  I argue that making it into the RWC by beating Canada may NOT be the best place for the Eagles.  Pool B gives us our best chance and we have a clear shot at it.  Now before you throw tomatoes at me, hear my argument.  Let’s break it down.

Don't look at me like that Todd - I have a valid theory....

Where the roads lead….

 Alright, we’ve got the 3 possibilities laid out before us.

Road 1 – Pool D as Americas 1 (France/Ireland/Italy/Europe 2)  

We beat Canada by more than 18 points Saturday and we’re into pool D – YAY!  Wait, yay?   France is gonna go forward no question, which leaves the Eagles to get past Ireland and Italy.  Now you can argue with me all you want that USA would be hard pressed to beat Ireland or Italy, but dammit-I photographed both those matches and I think we could.  Except, we have to remember the top Irish players were with the Lions this summer, so while I could see us sneak by Italy, Ireland will be formidable.   I think we would stand a solid shot at it.  Chances of going to QFs – questionable (50/50)

Road 2 – Pool B as Americas 2 (Springboks/Samoa/Scotland/Asia 1) 

We lose Saturday-BOO, so we face Uruguay-which we will win and then be in Pool B – Yay?  Hell yeah YAY!  We know the Boks will be QFinalist.   With Samoa and Scotland, we face some pretty tough roads.  Samoa is becoming a POWERHOUSE in rugby.  Beating them won’t be easy.  But they will take a pounding from the Springboks and if we play them later, could be a team we can beat.  Scotland can be pretty schizophrenic and with so many recent changes, they are just this year beginning a rebuild.  That leaves a large question mark as well.  Chances of going to QFs – (65/35)

Road 3 – Pool A as Repechage  (Aussies/England/Wales/Oceania Playoff winner) 

We lose Saturday to Canada-Boo, we some how lose to Uruguay-Ugh, so we play through the Repechage.  Ok so in terms of getting to the RWC it’s a boom boom boom win win win and we go.  But and this is a seriously Kim Kardashian size BUT—we end up in the pool of doom.  Aussies. England. Wales. Oh my!  It’s a no brainer that either Aussies or England will go through with Wales.  And we’re gonna take a beating no matter what.  Chances of going to QFs – don’t make me type it.

So there you have it.  Boo Hoo that Canada defeats us all you want.  I give it no nevermind.  We want Americas 2.  Let Ireland deal with Canada.   Besides the runner up in Pool D will in all likelihood face NZL in the QF!  So HA!  Ha ha? Wait.  I could photography USA Eagles v All Blacks? Dammit! Let's beat CANADA!!!!  Go Eagles!

Could I take a moment and recommend starting Cam Dolan? Or at least put him in sooner?

Paul Emerick - Throwback for a legend!

Last week, USA rugby legend Paul Emerick announced his retirement from the pitch.  What an amazing career.  I can't wait to see where his road leads, it's going to be great.    I had the pleasure of interviewing him in 2011 after he got back from the RWC in New Zealand.  I was working on a blog for Wales Online and even though he isn't Welsh, there's a very devoted Welsh following here in the states who still see him as a Dragon.  So in honor of Paul and this weekend's start of USA Eagles road to RWC 2015, I'm reposting the original interview here.  And Paul, if you see this...I think it's time we did another one of these.  In fact, I think you should do a guest blog for me and share some of the awesome stories from your career ;)  (BTW I'm calling it - Eagles will defeat Canada tomorrow - 21-12)

Originally Posted @ WalesOnline & manpilez.com in November 2011

USA Rugby has a Dragon in their midst….

The Welsh rugby community in the USA has always been loud and proud; never more so than now!  And those of us who gathered to watch the Pool matches from RWC2011 sweated out not only the Wales games, but the USA matches as well.  We spent most of our time watching the experienced Center-Paul Emerick.  He’s a rugby star away from home for us Welsh fans who fondly recall his days in Wales with the Dragons.   The USA Eagles may not be in New Zealand in these closing weeks, but Emerick is already geared up for the challenge of his career.   I had the chance to talk with Paul recently and he had a lot to say about coaching, his teammates, and who’s walking away with the RWC trophy in a couple of weeks.

(R) You started your rugby career at college in Iowa?
(P) Its University of Northern Iowa.  I went to school to play football originally, then after my freshman year quit. And I kind of missed playing in a competitive sport and flag football wasn’t cutting for me so I learned to play rugby.

(R) You ended up in Italy playing for Italy.   How did you end up there?  
(P) When I’d started I didn’t even know there was a national team through rugby till after my first year and into my second year.  I graduated in ’03, went to the RWC and actually I stayed in Chicago and played a year of club rugby and signed my first contract in Sicily in the Italian competition.
[Writer’s Note: Emerick played for Amatori Catania and then Overmach Parma]

(R) A lot of fans on twitter were quick to tell me you are fluent in Italian.  Is that correct?
(P) *laughs*  I’m not gonna solve any international incidents but I can get through my day without speaking any English and  you know watch TV with relative competence. 

(R) Is that something you just started learning there or have you always loved learning languages?
(P) Well there’s no Italian classes in Iowa *laughs* I’d taken a little bit of French in high school and college and when I moved to ?? I bought a self-teach book and I wanted to get assimilated with the culture.  Part of that was having to learn the language and being able to speak and learning all the day to day things. [Sicily] is pretty old school Italian and not a lot of English speakers down there, so it was good.  It made my time overseas more enjoyable.  I could sit down with my team mates and have a bit of banter in a language that everyone can understand. 

(R) You spent a few seasons with the Dragons in Wales, what was your experience there like?
(P) I enjoyed it a ton actually, it’s just nice to be in a country where rugby is such an important part of the culture.  My team mates and the club there were fantastic and I love the fans down there in Newport.  I was sad to leave.

(R) Would you want to play in Wales again?
(P) I would love to go back there for another season or two.  I left to chase another contract in France and that didn’t work out and I ended up back in Italy.  Hindsight is 20/20, looking back now I should have stayed for my last year of my contract, but I’d love to get back over there.  I enjoyed living in Cardiff, I enjoyed the culture—it was nice.
[Writer’s Note:  Blues, Ospreys, Dragons, and Scarlets--I’ve got his number and I’m willing to pass it along….I know at least one of you four needs it]

(R) You’re at Life University in Georgia now as a player/coach.  Is it hard wearing both hats?
(P) I’m only coaching the undergraduate team here and then I’m playing with the graduate team.  It’s good to have that separation.  I enjoy coaching and the kids are eager to learn and take stuff on board.   I think in the years down the road I’ll be involved in rugby and the coaching part of it.  It’s definitely different trying to be able to relay your vision and your point across to the kids. I can relate a lot to them, a lot of them are still 2-3 years into rugby.  I know what it’s like being that American who started the game late.  Hopefully, I do a good job coaching.  It’s still a learning experience with me; I’m still learning how to be a coach.  It’s very different.

(R) What was your favorite moment on the pitch at the World Cup and why?
(P) I think my favorite moment on the pitch was the try I set up for my teammate Chris Wyles against Italy.  That was my favorite moment, probably the highlight of my tournament there.

(R) What was your favorite moment off the pitch at RWC?
(P) We were down in New Plymouth with a day off, and James Paterson had organized a day out in Taranaki.  We went out and sheared sheep, shot some clay pigeons,  went on a jet boat ride and had a big barbeque.  It was a good day out, just spending time with the boys in a non-rugby setting.  That was one of the best days off.

(R) In general everyone has said that USA played serious rugby in NZL, was this the same thing you heard from other teams? 
(P) I think our defense really improved leading up to the world cup and during the world cup.  Other teams definitely knew they walked away from a physical match so we got the general consensus we got from our games

(R) What was the reception like from your fellow Pool teams?
(P) Everyone was very amicable, I’ve played with four or five of the Irish guys when I was up in Belfast and against some of the Irish in my time with the Dragons.  After the games we didn’t do any after match functions, it just didn’t work out.  We had to travel the next day or the other team did.  Even though we didn’t have any sit down stuff we did go to each other’s locker rooms, trade jerseys and just had a cool accord.  One of the great things about rugby, after the game is done everyone is quick to congratulate you and wish you luck for the next game.

(R) Who’s your money on to take it all in the RWC?
(P) I picked South Africa and Wales in the finals.  I picked Wales for a revenge win after the pool play.  But now I think Wales will come out of the top bracket there to go to the finals and probably pick New Zealand to make it to the finals.  I think probably New Zealand to win it.  They’re at home and if they can’t win the world cup in New Zealand, then I don’t think they can win it.   There are no clear favorites anymore and that’s what makes for exciting games.
[Writer’s Note: This interview was right before France vs. Wales.  And even if it’s posted after the final—I’m sure the All Blacks won. LOL]

(R) What’s next for you?  Pan American Games? 
(P) Definitely I’m going down to Guadalajara, Mexico to the Pan American Games and gonna try to win a gold medal down there.  Then, after that I’m gonna sit down and evaluate where I’m at.  See how my body feels and there might be a contract out there.  I’m undecided on the Sevens World Series right now.

(R) What’s your long term rugby goal?  How much longer do you think you want to play?
(P) I think that the playing aspect, my days are pretty number.  If I find the right situation with a professional club back in Europe then I would love to go back there and play another season or two.  I’m just assessing where I’m at with things and where USA rugby’s at.   I’m just gonna worry about the Pan American games now and then I’m just sitting back and seeing  where everything’s at and then will go from there.
[Writer’s Note: Paul is missing the Pan-American Games because of a knee injury.  He’s had surgery and is expected to fully recover and be back on the pitch in 6-8 weeks.  Definitely we will miss seeing him play, but wish him all the best for a speedy recovery!]

(R) Who’s the best/worst roommate you’ve ever had?  
(P) Best—JJ Gagiano  He’s a bit like me, we’re a couple of koala bears.  We like to just hunker in and bed down and take naps all day.  I like my sleep.  He’s a really great roommate     Worst—Ashley Smith of the Dragons.  The guy spent more time with hair spray and on his hair in the morning just making sure things were correct and proper even well before we had to travel and stuff.  I just thought that was incredibly weird.  But actually he looked good; his hair was never out of place.

(R) If you were stranded on a desert island which two team mates would you take with you and why?
(from any team)
(P) Alec Parker-he is probably one of the handiest dudes you’ll ever meet.  He could probably fish, hunt and build you a hut with just a knife so he’d be a handy guy to get stuck on a desert island with.  And for entertainment purposes I’d probably ask for Yusef, the Russian.  The guy is just full of stories, half of them probably aren’t true but entertaining none the less.

(R) Do you have any Pre-Match ritual or are you a show up get the kit on kinda guy?
(P) If we have an evening game, I like to get a little nap in.  I usually stay pretty low key before matches.  There’s no sense in getting all ramped up way before you need to.  I really don’t have any rituals or anything.

(R) Best tour moment?
(P) Probably just this last world cup with that play in the Italy match was probably one of the best moments I’ve had.

(R)What is your perfect day off? 
(P) Go to the beach and just hang out get some surfboarding in or get some wake boarding in.  Depends on where I’m at, gotta be something that’s not rugby related and some good scenery go on a hike.  Just being outside enjoying nature.

(R) What’s on your ipod?
(P) A little bit of everything, country music, big Zac Brown Band fan, a lot of 90’s rock and roll

(R) What was the last book you read?
(P) A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson  It’s about the Appalachian Trail, a fully entertaining read.

(R) Who is your Rugby Hero?
(P) I’m a big fan of Felipe Contepomi, the Argentinian fly half. I remember playing several games against him and just walking off the pitch thinking he’s the man.  Great player, he’s versatile hard guy great feet; he’s been playing well for Argentina.

(R) Several female fans would like to know if you are single? 
(P) Currently I am.
[Writer’s note:  The queue forms behind me-stay to the right]

(R) Our Welsh crowd at Vegas 7’s always loves you, you think you’ll ever shake this welsh connection or are you stuck with us? 
(P) I wouldn’t say I’m stuck with the Welsh connection, I’m happy I’ve got the support of the Welsh community over here in the states.  The Welsh fans are some of the most passionate fans in the rugby community.  I’m more than happy to be a part of it.

Well, there you have it—a quick profile of one of the biggest names in rugby and definitely THE biggest name in USA Rugby.  With loads of personality, Paul Emerick is a great guy to chat with.  Thank you again Paul! 

And just to round it out, here are a couple of my favorite pics I've taken of Emerick.  (Side note: I've a serious love hate relationship with the one with me in it! It is from a few years ago!!)

 

To Those Going For The Gold....


For those of us who follow rugby around the world, it can get pretty hectic.  There's a lot of teams on a local, regional, national and international level to keep track of it all.  Not to mention all the tournaments and international events that can take the whole of the spotlight.  Personally, I've spent the last year trying to keep up with SMRC, Wales, USA Eagles, Lions....and frankly geesh I'm glad the international stage is clearing down a bit.


It's easy to get lost in it all.  It's easy to forget important events.  It's easy to not even know about them. 
But one event that I'm not forgetting is another team USA that's making a rugby stand over the next few weeks in Israel.  The Maccabi USA Rugby team is right now in Israel competing for gold medals in both 7s and 15s rugby at the 19th Maccabiah Games.  The opening ceremonies will air live July 18th, 1pm EST @ http://www.jltv.tv

The Games bring together players of Jewish heritage of various sports from countries around the world.   Resisting the urge to write a super extended long blog, I encourage you to go to their website and discover for yourself how they are impacting and bringing together not only those with Jewish heritage, but people from all cultures and sports from around the world.

Our Maccabi USA rugby team.  They look like gold to me!

Thanks to the surge in social media, a whole lot more of us know these games are going on.  And many more of us are going to be watching and waiting for updates and photos.  FYI - here's their schedule for 7s on July 17th.... And hopefully, there will be links to viewing the games. (These are local times so use noggin to figure out your time zone. FYI-they're 10 hours ahead of LA.) 

5.20PM Great Britain vs. Israel

5.40PM USA vs. South Africa

7.00 PM Great Britain vs vs. South Africa

7.20PM USA vs. Israel

8.40PM USA vs. Great Britain

9.00PM South Africa vs. Israel

10.00PM Bronze Medal Final

10.20PM Gold/Silver Medal Final

When we wake up tomorrow, they'll already be playing the 7s games, and USA will be playing South Africa at 7:40AM PST.  By the time those of us on the west coast are eating lunch, the gold medal game will be underway.

The 15s get started in a few days.  Here's Team USA's 15s schedule (again, do your own math for your own local time):

7/21/13 - USA v Canada 5pm

7/23/13 - USA v Great Britain 8pm

7/25/13 - play off to 5th/6th place match 5:30pm

7/25/13 - Semi Final 1  7pm

7/25/13 - Semi Final 2  8:30pm

7/29/13 - 5th/6th Place Match 5pm

7/29/13 - 3rd/4th Place Match  6:30pm

7/29/13 - Gold Medal Match  8pm

(A full schedule for all sports is here.)

I found out about these games earlier this year, through the blog of my friend and Vice Captain of Team USA, Aaron Davis. (You can follow his Maccabi Team USA journey at his blog.)  His story reminded me of a strange trip I went on through sport and subsequently I'm now wrapped up in following the USA Maccabi team.  More and more it's made me think about the tapestry of our lives.  How what we think and do affects so many others.  How one journey we go on impacts not only ourselves but the lives of those we've met and will meet along the way.

When I was little, and my father passed, the whole concept of rugby disappeared from my life.  By mere chance, I re-discovered it.  Then, fell in love with it again in the midst of tragedy.   I didn't know at the time that I would ever have a reason to reflect on that tragedy again.  I never thought I'd see those events as connecting me to something else in the future.  I knew I'd change course, but didn't think of how or where my potential was now headed.  Being a supporter has introduced me to new opportunities and friends that would have gone right past me.  It's changed my life, impacted my career, and given me clearer vision for change and growth across the board for myself and the world around me.  And it's because I lived those moments, that I live my life the way I do now.  

I am overcome with emotion about the people I know who are there playing these next few weeks.  Sure we have a two stellar teams there, playing for the gold medal.  But they are playing for so much more.  When they come back, there won't be endorsement deals, parades, banners and headlines.  But there will be a gold medal around their necks and the swell of pride in their hearts.  Even more, there will be their contribution to the growth of rugby, to the growth of the Maccabi games, to the growth of their local teams, to the growth of the people they've met, to the growth of their own lives.  There will be memories, friendships, photos and team spirit that they carry always.  I look forward to their arrival back in the states, they are missed.  Even more, I want to see what's changed in their eyes.  What's been sparked in them to change their world and all our worlds again.  United in their Jewish heritage, united as a rugby team, united as Team USA, united with all of us as friends and family.  United and connected to the world and the people around them in a whole new way.

Look for the hashtags #ForTheBoys & #MaccabiUSA to help support our team.

Finally to Dave, Aaron and Ross - Good luck, safe travels and get back here with the GOLD!!

UPDATE: 7/17/13 - Maccabi USA 7s team has won the gold medal defeating Israel in an awesome final match 17-14  Congrats to both teams!!  

UPDATE: 8/16/13- A LONG overdue update.  (forgive me my day job butted in LOL)  Team USA brought home the Bronze!  And while it wasn't the gold they went for, I can say without a shadow of a doubt that the trip was a huge SUCCESS!  I feel nothing but pride for these guys.  And Aaron-get your butt home soon we all miss you!!

Calm Down. It really will be ok.

For those of you thinking I'm going to be talking about the SMRC 7's tourney this weekend....you're in luck.  Aztecs won, we came in fourth, it's gonna be a showdown at the Belmont Shore corral later this month.  Dolphins will be packin' the heat, don't you worry.

But, I got bigger fish to fry this morning.  The Lions have announced their roster for the final test match against the Wallabies on Saturday morning (wee hours by LA time) and well, some people (not all Irish but Lions supporters in general) seem to be staring aghast, slack jawed and wide eyed.  Ireland's star centre and legend Brian O'Driscoll is not on the roster, not even on the bench.  What seems to be even worse than this (according to some of my Irish friends) is that Welsh standard, Jamie Roberts, appears to have been chosen in his place.  Outrage even has a hashtag #odriscollgate


Now this kind of thing can happen on Lions tours.  You get that many rock stars on one stage and sure enough you find that four bass players is a tad excessive and someone has to sit out on a few stops on the tour.  It happens.  Do we really need all the kerfuffle?


What also seems to keep many Lions supporters fuming is that with Sam Warburton out, O'Driscoll should have been the easy choice for Captain.  First, let me break down that last phrase for you, "easy choice for Captain".  Anyone who thinks picking a Captain for the Lions when your #1 is sidelined before the last game of the entire tour needs their head examined.  There is no easy choice for Gats this week.  Lions backs are against the wall and his butt is on the line.  So please don't sit back and presume that Gatland threw darts at a squad sheet after a few pints.

Roster choices are nerve wracking on a club level, imagine it on this level.  You've got an entire corporation ready to pop champagne bottles over all the merch money they're going to make "when" you win.  You've got malicious headline writers foaming at the mouth just waiting for you to blink wrong and so they can write about it.  And these are just the things I've thought of in the last few moments.  I don't even want to know what keeps Gatland up at night.

Second--for the select and scant few twitter-ites who seem to think Roberts = plague.  Or let me see how did one tweet put it -"Roberts should be ashamed. He should step aside.  He's a coward for not reliquishing and making Gats use BOD" (And that's by a Welshman!)  Really?  Really?  Stop it.  Just plain stop it.  Even the most adamant Irish friends of mine, who's blood runs green and their hearts are shaped like shamrocks, will step up and say Jamie is a good choice at centre against the Wallabies. He didn't pick the squad and I doubt anyone I know would give up a spot in a Lions jersey to one of their friends.  So sit down.  He's a doctor, he knows what he's doing.  And overly insane crying for attention twitter rants are starting to piss me off.  (There by the grace of Gods goes the unfollow button.)

Dammit Gats..I'm a Doctor not a...wait.....

Third, it seems bloodthirsty "kill em all" Lions supporters really do have huge mushy hearts, because it seems a large portion of outrage comes out of a need to say goodbye.  A need to have one last glorious run onto the pitch and score the game winning try at the last minute of the last lions game.  Guess what, we've seen it.  I hate to be so blunt, but didn't we get that goodbye moment last Lions tour?  Didn't we see the waving and the tearjerking gut wrenching tribute videos play over and over on BBC.   What about the 2012 6 Nations, the 2013 6 Nations, hell O'Driscoll has been retiring from Internationals almost as long as KISS has been on a farewell tour.  Yes I own that that last comment sounds crass and bitchy, but....

That's just it--the Lions Tour is not the Brian O'Driscoll Farewell Extravaganza--it's just not.  It's the LIONS TOUR.  It's bigger than the Welsh, the Irish, the Scots and the English.  It's bigger than one player or one game or one try.  It's bigger on a corporate level, sponsor level, player level and supporter level.  The Lions are even bigger than the corporation that runs it.  For six weeks every four years, the British and Irish are one - we are all Lions.  Look at the roster--it's not lacking in talent, skill, experience or leadership.

Dollars to donuts, hand to Rugby Gods, we'll all be watching O'Driscoll final international game tribute videos during fall internationals and probably even 2014 6 Nations.  I, for one, wouldn't mind seeing another one sometime.  The man's a brilliant rugby legend that crosses all nations and all teams. He has had the most shining heart racing moments in the sun.  He will have another before it's all over. Saturday will not be one.  And it really is ok.

Personally, I'd rather O'Driscoll not been on the Lions tour--I might have had the chance to photog him in Houston.... Don't worry about your leadership going forward Ireland-you're in good hands. O'Mahony is also just fun to say.

If we lose to the Wallabies-well I expect all of you to be on here with a ton of "I told you so's"  and guess what - if the resounding chorus is that O'Driscoll would have given us a win, then I'll deserve it.  But we won't - Lions 21-Wallabies 18  

Always get gas in Blythe...and other lessons from Tempe

This week I've reflected on the road trip to Tempe's Sizzlin' Sevens Tourney and developed some fundamental rules for rugby road trips.  These differ slightly from your usual "let's hit Vegas!!" rules which I'll post in January.

1) Wake up call phone tree....  Everybody gets a buddy-you wake up, you call a team mate and make sure he's up, he calls the next and so on.  I'm not naming any names, but without a chase car, some teams might have been one man down.  Which brings me to....

2) Have a chase car.  Nobody wants to sit squished in one vehicle for 6 hours let alone be rested and ready for a day of rugby.  Also, run low on ice or water? Easy peasy in a car any supporter or supporting player can grab and drive so everyone else can remain focused.  And no players or the coach driving to the game on a long trip...let them focus and psych up.  Share some driving on the ride back.  Also, this car can wait for any delayed players at your road trip starting point and catch up.

3) ALWAYS STOP IN BLYTHE FOR GAS.... When heading east out of California, do not leave Blythe without filling the gas tank.  I'm sparing you the details, but we sailed into the station at Tonopah without incident, just our heartbeats going a little faster....  (Along those same lines, when heading east, stop at Tonopah!)

4) Make sure there's a good DJ in the chase car.  Pick your own poison for music when you are by yourself, in cases like rugby road trips let someone else do the music jumping.  My car got lucky, we had the power house of sound that was Phil as we floored it out of LA, the laid back podcasts of Zac as we settled into Tempe and the Boston mixology of the Big Cat for the road home.

5) Start hydrating for Saturday's 7s tourney the Monday before.... this is a no brainer if you're playing, but if your supporting...it's necessary as well.  That headache halfway through the day of games is your body telling you to drink--WATER.

6) Bring the "sisters" and other support crew when you can.  SMRC was fortunate to have two sisters with them the awesome Meghan and myself.  I drove the chase car while Meghan kept everyone in line in the van.  We also had former coach, the amazing Miles with us.  With Miles and I driving, our coach and team could rest, focus and hydrate.  The three of us were also able to organize the guys, set up base camp and keep the details of the day on track.  Our coach can focus on coaching, our players can focus on playing and our supporters could focus on cheering.   Also, little tip for opposing teams--flirting with a Sister by calling her a "team mom" will get you nowhere.

Now with some mad rugby skills, practice, a little luck, practice, some teamwork, practice, conditioning and a little practice-you can have an awesome rugby road trip with your team!  FYI - you can see all the photos from Tempe here: http://flic.kr/s/aHsjGkQ1xr

These guys.....

Dear Supporters....really?

I'd like to take a moment and talk about supporters....

I love supporters - in fact, let us be honest here - I am one.  And when I am in supporter mode, I am the loudest & proudest bitch in the room.  But even then I do my best not to go psycho on the other team.  The word "supporter" means "someone who supports" NOT "someone who degrades the opposing team with racial slurs and horrific disregard for their mom's reputation".

Do those people hear themselves?  I first noticed it at a Wales v South Africa match.  Near me sat what appeared to be an average British bloke, a few pints heavier on the day.  But pre-game, seemed as normal as the day is long.  Then when the players took the field and the Boks anthem began, I heard "fuck you" in a voice that seemed to drown out the music.   I didn't even know the guy and was several seats from him, but I was still embarrassed.  The other Welsh supporters around me were embarrassed.  From the faces of people who were working the event, who turned around from the pitch to glare in his direction, they were embarrassed too.

I cannot imagine being a player on a pitch and a supporter in my colors stands up and shouts like that at the opposing team during their anthem.  Imagine if this was your kid's club game.

More recently this year, my beloved SMRC played another SoCal squad in an away game. (for the sake of clarity, I'll call them--That Other Team -TOTS)  I've photographed TOTS squad before against other clubs, in fact they had someone who courted me to become a part of their family instead of SMRC.  Nothing would make me want to be a part of the TOTS family after that game.

All the players were cordial enough, friendly to each other across both squads and the game started well.  It was a HOT day and at some point the water guys for SMRC needed a little kick start getting their butts onto the field and the players yelled emphaticly more than once for "WATER!".
This became a sticking point for one TOTS supporter.  She laid into a particularly loud player from the stands: "What's the matter #_? Is it too hot for you guys out there?  Poor little players thirsty from getting your asses kicked?  Maybe you should be water boy & your team might play better. Fuck you guys"  She continued to call out this player's number and shout insults at him the rest of the game.  Other supporters around her would either go silent or turn their heads as did coaches and other players on the sidelines.   I was camera in hand and representing my team so no I did not turn and punch her in the mouth--also I was too far away. (Situation otherwise given the number she picked on.....) In fact, the only thing pointed out is her own issues and/or how bad her own team was that she couldn't find something positive to cheer them on about.  But, SMRC did go ahead and win that match so put that in your karmic pipe and smoke it lady.

Nothing beats what I heard most recently from Eagles supporters in the stands of Houston.  USA was behind most of the game and 99% of Eagles fans gave rousing shouts of "U.S.A." and "Let's Go Eagles".  But dammit if I didn't keep hearing random supporters yelling "pikey", "wankers", "nina", "bog jumpers", and several other racially charged irish insults.  Think these players were too far away to hear?  Imagine the shock on the shouter's face when an Irish player turned and looked him in the eye.  Now, does anyone think about what happens when we want Ireland to come back over and play us on our turf again?  Do you think that when we want to have Wales, England or Scotland over they won't have heard about the language and attitude of supporters here?

Fortunately, these people are far far far in the minority.  So no, I don't think it will matter in the long run grand scheme of things.  And let me be clear, EVERY club, local, national, international, youth through old boys, has that one supporter who just won't shut up.  That one loudmouth who uses the word fuck more than a, an or the.  The one supporter that the players hear from the stands where they go - "oh god that guy".  But that person, isn't the one I'm talking about.

I'm talking about the supporters who go too far.  Who instead of yelling - "GO TEAM" for their guys--yell - "Fuck you n------s" to the other team.  Yes, unfortunately I've heard that one from the stands...in Vegas...during 7s...shouted at the Eagles no less from a supporter in a different country's jersey.  And yes I was on the pitch photographing at the time so if I heard it, you can bet the players it was directed at probably heard it too.

Here's my point - there's always going to be that small percentage of rugby supporters who find it easier to pick out a target, point a finger and say something negative, often racially toned, at the opposing team.  But let's keep these guys in the weeds.  Instead of turning our heads or going silent, let's be the supporters we are and get these guys shouting for their team instead of against the other.  Let's truly support our clubs by supporting each other and making sure everyone is having fun and both teams are given proper respect - "OY mate! come on that's just too far. We as supporters are better than that.  Rugby is better than that."

                                                 (Be like this guy!!!!)

The End.

The End?

I always like starting that way....  People can make all kinds of assumptions about what the hell I'm talking about.   But here's what I really mean....

It's the end of me running silent online.  Those of you that know me, know that I'm not ever actually silent, but in terms of blogging about rugby I have been, but those days are gone.  Here are the days of my running off at the blog about rugby.  No longer will my friends roll their eyes as we watch a Wales match at the pub while I expound my infinite opinion on a kicker, a try, a non-try, etc....  You can simply turn to me and say "Morg, just shut up and go blog about it!"

Like any good venture, I've got a mission.  To present the game of rugby and the lifestyle encompassed therein, locally and internationally, Sevens and Union, from the perspective of a female American supporter.

There will be plenty of things about various matches, standings, plays and players, but also here you'll be able to read about training, diet, tickets, clothing, traveling, shopping, swag, etc--as they relate to rugby.  Who's got a new kit that makes your eyes bleed? What would Johnny Wilkinson do?  and Where are the best places to stay when you're in Cardiff?

I hope with this blog I'll be able to bring more attention to the local scenes.  Yes, SoCal will be my focus and you will get sick of reading about the best SoCal team, SMRC, but tough.   Start your own blog.

Hopefully, there will be dabbles in the future of interviews with some rugby legends, now and in the making and early on I'll be re-posting my classic interview with Paul Emerick from manpilez.com

We'll throw in some guest blogs, surveys, and whatever else I can think of....

Of course, there will be lots of photos.... And links to flickr....
http://flic.kr/s/aHsjFTXaMt

So thanks for taking the time to read this first post and I hope you'll be back!

Morg
(the nickname will be a blog I swear....)