Pelham U13 team (in blue) playing Greenwich Sunday.
Pelham Rugby Club traveled to Greenwich for a series of scrimmages on Sunday. The U13 team kicked off with many players playing their first game of tackle rugby ever. They had a fantastic time and competed well. As might be expected, some of the players were a little confused, but fortunately some of the U15 players along with the coaches were there to encourage and cheer them on.
Playing in the game were Andrew Clausen, Christopher Davis, Conner Evans, Connor Fleming, Jack Fronce, Sofia Imperato, Quinn Jenkins, Conor McNulty, Reed O’Brien, Luca Phillips, Adam Razick, Tamio Shibasaki, Andrew Shulzhenko, Jean Vigroux, Cameron Ward and Patrick Zahradnik. The team was also supported by fifth grade veteran Justin O’Biern. Conner Evans was named player of the game.
The new additions performed very well, making tackles and passes and setting off on some good runs. This team will be greatly improved for the league season in the spring and will be exciting to watch in the future as they grow older and more confident.
The U 15 team decided to enter into a three-way scrimmage with Manhattan Youth Rugby and Greenwich U15. This was an exciting and fun game to watch. All three sides put on displays of great skill and fantastic tackling.
The Pelham team was led by Matt Biskup, Morgan Collins, Captain Kees Huisman, Whit Johnson, Alexander Oman, Luke Persanis, Nicholas Roll, Quinn Scanlon and helping out while resting from a football injury, North Westall. Kees Huisman was named player of the game.
After the game, the coaches from all three teams–Greenwich, Manhattan and Pelham–all commented about how aggressive and skilled the Pelham players were. Pelham looks to be a pre-season favorite to win the spring league again, coming off two consecutive undefeated seasons.
Players of the week (from left), Conner Evans (U13) and Captain Kees Huisman (U15).
These will be exciting times ahead for Pelham as rugby is now an official Olympic sport. Pelham next plays at home on Ingall’s Field on Oct. 14 at 3:30 for the U13 followed by the U15.
As always, Pelham Youth Rugby is open to any child grades 2-9 for flag and 6-9 for tackle. No experience is needed or required. It is not too late to join. If your child is interested, please visit the Pelham Recreation website or contact Matthew Persanis at mp@elefantepersanis.com.