Joidan Thomas
The Germantown rugby team focuses on success- this season and beyond.
“We are mid-season and have several games left as well as our conference tournament and a hopeful trip to the state playoffs. My expectations are that we win our conference tournament, and play well enough during the state playoffs, providing us another chance to compete for the state title,” rugby coach Marc Holley stated.
While the goal of making it to the state championship game seems to be the goal, accomplishing that goal will not be easy.
“We are a small team, so it’s harder for us when we face bigger teams. I think we had one big team in our bracket this year and that’s Christian Brother, and that’s probably our toughest challenge this year. So far I think we’ve done well,” senior rugby player Chase Danis stated.
Despite the size disadvantage and the foes they face, the coach has found a way to inspire his players, keeping in mind their ultimate goal.
“Ever heard of Vince Lombardi? The Lombardi speech, ‘What It takes to be Number One’. I tell them when they step out onto the playing field that they have to decide in their minds if they are going to be a target or a tank. You have to play tough, but you also have to play smart. Be a warrior!” Holley stated.
This attempt to inspire his players is definitely working.
“Rugby has really taught me that hard work pays off, to never give up, and do your best always,” junior Aaron Boggan stated.
The goal for the remainder of this season is clear, yet the coach’s goal for his players goes beyond state.
“[I wanted them] to be competitive, to play their very best, not only with their athleticism, but also with their minds and their hearts. I wanted to teach them to respect the game, to respect their teammates, to respect their opponents, to respect the referee and coaches, but most important, to respect themselves and their family,” Holley stated.
The Germantown rugby team focuses on success- this season and beyond.
“We are mid-season and have several games left as well as our conference tournament and a hopeful trip to the state playoffs. My expectations are that we win our conference tournament, and play well enough during the state playoffs, providing us another chance to compete for the state title,” rugby coach Marc Holley stated.
While the goal of making it to the state championship game seems to be the goal, accomplishing that goal will not be easy.
“We are a small team, so it’s harder for us when we face bigger teams. I think we had one big team in our bracket this year and that’s Christian Brother, and that’s probably our toughest challenge this year. So far I think we’ve done well,” senior rugby player Chase Danis stated.
Despite the size disadvantage and the foes they face, the coach has found a way to inspire his players, keeping in mind their ultimate goal.
“Ever heard of Vince Lombardi? The Lombardi speech, ‘What It takes to be Number One’. I tell them when they step out onto the playing field that they have to decide in their minds if they are going to be a target or a tank. You have to play tough, but you also have to play smart. Be a warrior!” Holley stated.
This attempt to inspire his players is definitely working.
“Rugby has really taught me that hard work pays off, to never give up, and do your best always,” junior Aaron Boggan stated.
The goal for the remainder of this season is clear, yet the coach’s goal for his players goes beyond state.
“[I wanted them] to be competitive, to play their very best, not only with their athleticism, but also with their minds and their hearts. I wanted to teach them to respect the game, to respect their teammates, to respect their opponents, to respect the referee and coaches, but most important, to respect themselves and their family,” Holley stated.