THREE NORCAL CHAMPIONS:
COLLEGE FINALS AT STANFORD
Division Two Women:
UC SANTA CRUZ 22 – Plymouth State 10
Division One Women
STANFORD 45 – Navy 12
STANFORD 15 – Penn State 12
Division One Men:
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA 30 – Utah 11
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA 29 – Brigham Young Univ. 26
We know that the touch judges included Pete Smith and Jim Crenshaw. We believe that John Pohlman and possibly others were involved but have not received any reports from anyone in NorCal about this event.
Scott Wood ran the scoreboard.
FEEDBACK FROM THE HEAD REFEREE
Kevin McCaslin, who got to do a close Cal – BYU final, sends along some thanks:
“Pete Smith did a fantastic job [coordinating touch judges], I am sure as you expected. All the referees from NorCal were fantastic and worked hard on both days. The efforts even ramped up for the championship matches. Great society and crew - thank you again for being such good hosts to the referees over the past several years for the premier event in the USA.”
THIS COMING WEEKEND AT STANFORD
This Saturday and Sunday will be the second annual Pacific Coast High School Invitational at Stanford. There will be several featured matches and a barbecue in the grove late Saturday afternoon.
On Saturday there will be three Grizzly Shield matches for Under-23 women.
On both Saturday and Sunday, Crawshay’s Welsh will be playing at noon: on Saturday their Bs will play Jesuit’s developmental squad; on Sunday their As will play Golden Gate U-23.
Crawshays is something of the Welsh Barbarians. They are playing in Albuquerque this Wednesday and in San Luis Obispo next week.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crawshays_RFC
These games will be refereed by Pacific Coast B panel referees from NorCal, PNW and Utah, but plenty of touch judges are needed and will be greatly appreciated. Please let us know if you can be there either or both days.
BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL PLAYOFFS
TIER ONE
Semifinal:
VACAVILLE 10 – Elsie Allen 5 Referee: Jim Crenshaw
Final:
JESUIT 36 – Vacaville 15 Referee: Tony Latu
Touch Judges: Dave Miller, JC van Staden
Both teams already have reservations for the National at Dartmouth’s new pitch on the East Coast. The winner will play at Tier 1, loser at Tier 2. I think that the Top 4 teams in NorCal should all be at the Tier 1 competition. Anyway, Vacaville was the under-dog, but Jesuit didn't take that for granted.
Jesuit first dotted down at the sixth minute and they didn't look back. They won the game 36-15. Thanks to the T/J: Dr. Miller and JC.
TIER TWO
Saturday, May 6, Semi-final:
RIO RUGBY 41 – Sonoma 0 Referee: Kat Todd-Schwartz
At Rio Americano (Sacramento)
This was a fairly fast Tier II play-off game. I had hoped for a close game, and made sure we were all in agreement on what would occur if we had a tie game at full time. However, such contingency plans were not needed as this was a one sided game at the end of the day. Sonoma was early and organized before the game, but were outplayed by the Rio backs. Two yellow cards were issued to Sonoma players for dangerous tackles. The second player reportedly commented that he thought he should be given a warning first (e.g. one 'free' take-the-other-player's-head-off tackle). Rio played well, but Sonoma should be commended for a strong season overall.
TIER TWO FINAL, NOT SURE WHEN:
Burbank – Rio Referee: ?
Once we know the time and place we’ll get a good Pelican on it!
OTHER RUGBY GAMES
Saturday, May 5
Rocca Field, SFGG Grounds, Treasure Island
San Francisco-Golden Gate 36 – Swords RFC 36Referee: Joe Leisek
Touch Judges: Mike Gadoua, Paul Berman
A great rugby Saturday started with my arrival at the SFGG grounds on a sunny, cool day. The first place I went was the referee's room. What a great room it has turned out to be! A very warm, inviting feel: newly-painted, a sofa and two chairs, framed photos and jerseys, and a framed photo of someone who looks like Bjorn Stumer issuing a yellow card to a Humboldt State player. Bjorn is project manager for the renovation of this room, and he deserves our gratitude for his work. The photo is a fine tribute to his efforts.
I walked outside and joined SFGG player Brendan Dobel who was watching Mike Gadoua referee the curtain-raiser, SFGG U23 v. USF. Well, Brendan might've been watching the players, but I watched Mike. He looked great and showed flashes of his sevens speed.
Soon a few cabs and shuttle vans drove up and deposited an Irish rugby club. Four or five of them were even dressed as leprechauns. I was soon told by a club representative, however, that these were the Englishmen on tour with the Swords club, and that their garb was punishment for being English and for freeloading off the Irish.
Swords is the capital of the county of Fingal and is near Dublin. I did a bit of research on Saturday evening (Googlin' on a Saturday night!) and found an interesting story about the club's history:
http://www.swordsrfc.com/clubinfo-history.htm
The match was great fun. With Mike and Paul on the touchlines, I felt very comfortable. Both teams wanted to run, and they did. Swords featured more tactical kicking by the experienced and skilled flyhalf. They also managed a rolling maul that was astonishingly effective. The first half ended up deadlocked at 17, both teams scoring three tries with one conversion.
(So I suppose I refereed two draws.)
The second half started to look like the game would go SFGG's way, but the tourists simply re-charged their mauling engine and came back to very nearly win the match. A penalty kick awarded to Swords in the last minute, about 25 metres out and about 15 metres from the left post, faded just to the left.
This was a very competitive match between two sides that played hard.
The after-match social featured a great atmosphere (with a few English leprechauns), as the tourists looked forward to a few more days in San Francisco before heading back to Ireland.
Saturday, May 6
SILVERHAWKS 71 – Fog B 0 Referee: Chris Fisher
The only thing to really standout in this game was a move I've never seen before. A Fog player jumped six feet in the air and did a flying karate kick over a Silverhawk player. He barely hit the player in the face. I blew my whistle not knowing what to call. Is there a law against six feet high karate kicks or not? In the end, I called a penalty for dangerous play and awarded a scrum on the advice of the Silverhawk captain, Kenny Bousfield, who said, "A penalty is a little excessive since the player didn't know what he was doing." And since everyone was cracking up with laughter I awarded the scrum.
The question begs: have other refs been confronted with a situation where they didn't know what to call? What happens if a dog runs onto the field and grabs the ball and runs off with if?
Tuesday, May 2
Arnold Field, Sonoma
SONOMA HS 10 – Santa Rosa HS 7 Referee: Bo Rodman
Touch Judges: Joe Leisek, Larry West, Calvin Rodman
The annual Rugby Under the Lights fundraising match between Sonoma and Santa Rosa high school boys teams was a great event, as it is every year. Congratulations to Kevin Brown, his coaches, players, and volunteers, for staging another success. The game itself was entertaining, as Kevin's boys came back to edge the visitors in a very tight, exciting defensive contest.
Tuesday, May 2, at Cougar Rugby Complex, Carmichael
Freshman/sophomore playoff semi-final:
COUGARS 39 –Rio 15 Referee: Ray Schwartz
Touch Judges: Michael Taylor, Rob McVicar
A tale of two halves, as CRC scored first but was matched by Rio Rugby. The half ended 17-15. Cougars ran away with the second half as Rio stopped tackling just as the Cougars stepped up their pace. The Frosh/Soph competition in Sacramento is a key factor in explaining the depth and stability of these many clubs.
Wednesday, May 3, Cougar Rugby Complex
Varsity friendly
COUGARS 41 – Christian Brothers 21 Referee: Ray Schwartz
Tapped for games two days in a row by Cougar head coach Joe Cavallaro, how could I say no?! Similar story, with a tales of two halves. CRC scored first, tallying 2 tries, but Brothers Rugby, featuring a number of Cordova Lancers, come back to draw the game to 10-7 at the half.
Scoring opened up in the second half, lead by the Cougars senior wing Tyler Harrison, who showed extraordinary strength and balance to go with his blistering pace. I was relieved to find out Tyler would be attending UC Davis this coming fall! The Cougars pulled away as Christian Brothers seemed to stop tackling, though CB's sophomore flanker Polo had a blistering and bruising long run for a try, and flyhalf Joe Malm outraced all others on his own gutsy chip ahead.
Only after the match was I told the reason for the friendly was a tune up for the upcoming Pacific Coast Invitational High School Tournament, this coming weekend at Stanford. Cougars are looking good, but Brothers Rugby announced that they simply couldn't muster the numbers to make the Mother's Day weekend trip worthwhile.
Friday evening, Jesuit High, Sacramento
JV Final
JESUIT 10 – Golden Eagles 5 Referee: Ray Schwartz
I arrived to see a huge crowd gathered and fixated on JC van Staden as he was calling the F/S Final between Cougars RC v Jesuit. I kitted up, strapped on my knee brace, and trotted down the Jesuit sideline to check on the next group of gladiators readying for battle. Jesuit looked calm and organized, led by Fred Khasigian and Greg Joseph. The Golden Eagles, led by Tom Chute and David Bentley were being led passionately thru the paces by Mr. Bentley.
I met the captains at the center stripe just before kickoff, Jesuit's Alex a sharp looking #8, and the Golden Eagles' A.J. a scruffy little hooker. It seemed like two very different sides indeed. I wondered inwardly how the Golden Eagles could ever hope to contain the Jesuit juggernaut. But Jesuit would self-destruct a bit as they were called repeatedly for hands in the ruck, twice in a row early on, before they finally executed a perfect poach just before a ruck could form.
I appreciated that they were trying to gain possession, and did so legally several times, but too often they were seen fighting for the ball while physically on the ground. Leading 5-0, and just before halftime, I had seen enough and felt the need to yellow card the Jesuit 12, as he was prone, diving over a tackled player, and slapping at the ball, just two meters away from a possible try. He couldn't understand why he had to sit, the concept of 'repeated team infringements' being lost on this rugby neophyte. But his captain understood, and rightfully was frustrated that his teammates would not listen to him or me.
Jesuit scored again early in the second half as the Golden Eagles could not capitalize on the man advantage, but they would soon pounce on a rare Jesuit mistake, a ball tossed backwards to no one was then fly-hacked by the Golden Eagles 14 who won the footrace to dot the ball down less than a foot from in touch in goal.
The rest of the game was played at a furious pace and with great passion, but without further scoring. After the match it was made clear to me that the Golden Eagles have a full Varsity side that will heading to Stanford. And, of course, Jesuit had a big game to play versus Vacaville the very next day.
SVHSRC Frosh/soph Final on May 4, 2006
COUGARS 26 – Jesuit 24 Referee: JC van Staden
I picked up the level off urgency from both teams before the match started, where both team was ready to take the field 20 minutes before the scheduled time. Cougars were starting with all out from the kick-off, but Jesuit put a damper on their assault with good tackling and a great interception try just 7 minutes in the 1st half. Cougars were rattled, and Jesuit step up to the plate with another try about 15 minutes later, which put them in the lead by 12 points. There was no kicking for position from either team at a penalty. Cougars did not let go, which resulted in a Mexican stand off. Tries were flying in from both teams, tackles where roofless. Key players where sub by injury, just to be replaced with better once. It was rugby the way it should be!
With 2 minutes to go Jesuit was in the lead with 3 points, and Cougars were attacking like there was no tomorrow. Two times Cougars run it to the in goal, just to be called back for a forward pass and a penalty for hands in the ruck. Still they kept beautiful composure and hanged in there. With the clock on the end and quick reaction by Cougar’s captain, a quick tap ended in an unconverted try, sealing the game for themselves @ 26-24.
These kids understand rugby. To have U/17 rugby like this will be the first for the USA. If we can build a rugby culture in the USA the way Jesuit and the Cougars are doing it, we will be ready to take on the rest of the world in no time. Good luck coaches, players and managers. You guy’s are doing a great job.
05/07/06
Davis 0 – Alameda 8 Referee: Kat Todd-Schwartz
The Lady Devils hosted the Alameda team on a beautiful Sunday afternoon in Davis. Alameda scored one try in the first half and ended the game with a successful penalty kick. It seemed the players were not overly motivated until the last 10 minutes of the game when both teams played aggressive rugby with multiple occurrences of stolen ball. However, it was a little late for Davis, and, although they had decent scoring opportunities, they did not recover.
PELICANS IN ALL DIRECTIONS
HIS FIRST TEST MATCHES: PAUL AND MARY BRETZ IN THE CAYMANS
Thursday April 30th: We arrived at Cayman airport Thursday evening and were met by Jeremy Channon a local referee who proceeded to drive us to our vehicle that was donated by one of Alasdair Robertson’s partners. Alasdair is a talented referee who has represented the NAWIRA (North America - West Indies Rugby Association) referees at the LA sevens tournament. Jeremy then proceeded to drop us off at our condo, a two-bedroom condo, the Corals Sands, overlooking the ocean on the west side of the island. There are 8 referees in the Caymans and all of them are either lawyers or accountants.
Friday: after enjoying the afternoon sun I coached Ian Beresford, a local referee who refereed the Cayman A Vs Canada under 21 A match. In addition to refereeing the Cayman vs. Bermuda and Cayman vs. Canada under 21 matches, the IRB asked that USA appoint a referee coach to help develop the referee society. In all I coached 3 referees, ran a field session, and ran a class session on tackle, ruck, and touch judge protocol.
The Caymans take their rugby seriously and are an active group on the Island. Two years ago the fields and clubhouse were completely destroyed by Hurricane Ivan. In order to get life back to a sense of normalcy the government asked all clubs to expedite the rebuilding of fields and facilities for all sporting activities. All of the rugby teams and referees joined in to rebuild the club-house and fields. Players and referees spent more than a month picking broken glass, furniture, housing materials, and everything in between from the field. They also rebuilt the roof and interior of the clubhouse. They were having games six months before the soccer or cricket clubs were up and running. The players are ex-pats from rugby playing countries around the world. Welsh, Scotts, Brits, French, Aussies, Kiwis all play for Cayman’s national side.
Saturday: USA referees, care of Ed Todd, purchased a series of training aids designed to help train referees on running lines and recognizing the tackle and ruck phases of play. These aids were used to help develop the Caymans Saturday morning. The field exercise lasted about two hours. We shared the field with the Canada team and about 50 kids who were playing under-6 rugby.
Sunday: Mary and I had brunch at the Ritz, knowing full well that I would only eat once for the day. There is no better way to commemorate a first international match then to spend the morning poolside eating fantastically prepared food with your wife. After the brunch Mary and I toured the island until it was time for the first match for the week, Cayman Vs Bermuda. Cayman demonstrated superior skill in ball handling at the tackle and were able to control the rucks with aggressive rucking. Cayman also had an explosive backline, which they used with proficiency easily beating Bermuda 37-17.
Monday: Mary and I spent the morning diving. The Cayman Islands offer some of the best diving in the world. The water is clear and warm, a nice contrast to diving in the cold murky waters of Monterey Bay. Monday afternoon was spent sight seeing-seeing and shopping.
Tuesday was a rugby day and I coached Alasdair as he refereed Bermuda against Canada Under 21. Canada is using this trip as a vehicle for selection to the U 21 team that will be visiting Ireland this coming summer. Canada’s Under 21 flyhalf is also the starting fullback for Cal. After the game players, fans, and referees watched the video of the match in the clubhouse.
Wednesday evening the referee society met in one of the law offices to discuss current issues related to tackle and rucks. Earlier in the day I went diving with Paul Deker, a rugby supporter who owns his own dive boat. If you ever get a chance to visit the Island look him up (94-SCUBA). I would also suggest you use a small dive operation as you will get more diving, a better experience, and individualized attention. Unfortunately Mary could not join me on this dive, as she had to return home. Had we known what the accommodations were we would have brought the kids. However I was only given 2 weeks notice to attend this ten day long event and thought there may be too much confusion to bring two small kids.
Thursday afternoon I coached Jeremy Channon, an English referee in only his third year of refereeing. Jeremy was very impressive and has a great deal of potential. Jeremy refereed a combined Cayman/Bermuda side against the Canada under 21 reserves. Canada easily won the match.
Saturday’s match between Cayman and Canada was the most eagerly anticipated match of the week. Word quickly got around the island that this was going to be a good match and I ran into lots of people on the island who mentioned that they were going to attend it. The grandstands were packed prior to the match and the sidelines held the overflow. It was also the hottest day of the week and both teams felt that the heat would take its toll. Cayman’s strength was their pack while Canada felt their backs were superior. In the end youth and fitness prevailed over experience. In the 70th minute of play, with the score 20-10 in favor of Canada, Cal’s starting fullback and under 21 flyhalf kicked the ball into space from the base of the ruck. Canada’s wing chased the ball down in goal and grounded the ball to make the score 25-10 and after the conversion 27-10. That kick sealed the fate of the game, as the score remained unchanged.
Saturday night was spent socializing in one of the many night spots. The Canadian coaching staff finally let the boys loose to enjoy the culture. NAWIRA and the IRB have set up a development program for referees to visit the US. Earlier this year I met up with a referee from Bermuda who was working in Southern California. In Late April I met up with another referee from Trinidad. The ground work has been laid for one of the referees from Cayman to stay in Northern California hopefully early next year if all the details can be worked out.
[Editor’s Note: This program unfortunately only came to the attention of the NCRRS board of directors too late in the season to effect our participation in it for 2006. Be assured that the Pelican Society will be adopting a NAWIRA referee next season. Tom Jones, the regional IRB representative, knows that we are fully aboard.]
MATT EASON TO THE POTOMAC SOCIETY
What a full weekend. I flew to Baltimore on Friday on exchange as a referee evaluator/coach. I arrived late Friday evening and spent what was left of the night with my host Pelicus Migratus, Skip Vaughn, and his new bride Barb. We reminisced about the good ole’ days, and turned in for the night.
The Chamber of Commerce apparently knew I was coming, as with the weather all weekend was spectacular. On Saturday, I was treated to a post post-season local friendly between two Division 2 and 3 clubs outside of Annapolis. After the match, Skip and Barb gave me a complete tour of Annapolis, and a blue-crab lunch. Later that evening, May 6, we went to a friend of Skip’s house for a Cinco de Mayo party.
Sunday was a hard core rugby day. I gave 5 coaching sessions, and 1 formal evaluation at the Rites of Spring Tournament. Perfectly hosted event by both the tournament, and the referee in charge. Caught the red-eye home last night, and now have a large pile of paperwork to type up. Overall a great exchange, and hopefully we can continue to take advantage of it.
I wish I could be more eloquent in my report, but I think I’m still asleep.
BJORN STUMER AND BO RODMAN TO THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
"Flocking Northwards"
I approached my very first exchange, up to the Pacific Northwest Under 19th Championship, with a degree of trepidation. Would all the arrangements fall into place? Will my left calf fail me again? Will I provide good service to the players and honor for our society? I packed all of these worries in my old kitbag along with plenty optimism and no rain gear & met up with Bo Rodman for our northern adventure.
All arrangements went quite well, thanks to the hard work of new exchange officer Kat Todd Schwartz. The Oakland airport proved an excellent alternative to SFO & Alaska Airlines provided good & efficient service.
Lynn Howard, the Northwest Society's Development Officer picked us up at the airport and, after a fine meal of roasted meats & imported beer, deposited us at the comfortable & convenient Holiday Inn Express in Lacey, a suburb of Washington's state capital Olympia.
After a few beers at a nearby pub, and much trivia on the laws of the game initiated by Bo, we retired for the night and were picked up the following morning by local rugby figure and Kiwi expat Mark Sullivan (Solly).
Solly provided us with transportation & proved to be a stout companion on my Saturday night outing while Bo attended a Seattle baseball match with old pals. Solly also ran touch for us on a number of matches, and his knowledge of the game helped us make the "team of three' concept a veritable success thereby affording the best possible officiating for the young players.
Saturday was a full day of rugby, under a canopy of grey clouds, at the beautiful Rainier Vista Park in Lacey. There we met up with a few more referees who would honor the day, as well as with Union Allocator Craig Parish (Wags) whom Bo & I presented with a California musical bottle opener – it was a delight to see the joy in his eyes as the Cal's fighting song issued from the small yet smart device!
A quick run through the checklists & the rules of the day & the tournament was on! I did the first match that saw local contenders, and ultimate winners, Budd Bay see off Kent, from Kent Valley just north of Lacey, with a final score of 12 - 3. Budd Bay along with Chuckanut from Bellingham (just south of the Canadian border) were two high school sides that may be compared with our illustrious ones, and both impressed with their skill and organization.
I cannot say much about my following match, as my records of it were destroyed in the copious rain that saluted us the following morning. Both Bo & I stood shivering in the incessant cold rain, while the local crowd displayed items of wet wear never seen in California.
I got the final of Washington's Division 2 High Schools & Bo expertly handled the Girls’ final. Mine was a very even match in which Seattle saw off a determined Valley side by 5-0. A step in touch right before the touchline's flag, expertly identified by Wags at touch, prevented Valley from tying after a great run parallel to the line of touch.
Bo had the penultimate match after which we quickly repaired to the airport for our return home.
Did I mention the rain? Just to give you an idea, I had my kit bag under a tent and in it, surrounded by much stuff, the hard case of my sunglasses (obviously unused that week-end). When I opened it this morning on my way to work I found the small cloth I use to clean up the glasses totally soaked!! Never again will I complain about a rainy day in the Bay Area!! Sunny however was the disposition of our gracious hosts, as well as the good nature of the crowd of supporters, proud parents, and old rugger-heads. Official evaluations could not be given to us, as these were high school matches, but much useful advice was given as the local rugby & referee community embraced quickly & warmly.
Bo and I were proud to represent our society which, by the way, ably prepared us to officiate at a level that brought us instant respect. As with all foreign rugby experiences, after a matter of minutes we were at home among family. Having played for many years I expected this, but was pleasantly surprised at how much I learned that will help my game. It was a wonderful exchange, good sport was had, fun was guaranteed. A great thank you goes out to local officials who made this possible, and to the Northwest society which provided us with excellent matches, fan tasting hospitality, and good fellowship."
BRUCE CARTER TO FORT BENNING
A national appointment took me to The Home of the Infantry, Fort Benning, in lovely Columbus, Georgia, for the military club championships this past weekend.
My fondest rugby memories as a player, which means my fondest rugby memories of all, have to do with military rugby. And none shines brighter amidst my aging neurons than the effortless recollection of every minute of all four of our games on May 4-5, 1985, when Monterey Military won the USARFU National Military Championship in Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
To win it all and fall down delirious was something I’d never thought I’d do. It exceeded my expectations as a player, whereas my expectations as a referee were significantly higher than where my talent and my opportunities allowed me to go. So yes, those are the fondest days I shall ever have following the bouncing oval ball.
It was then with grateful pleasure that I received the assignment to work this championship event twenty-one years on.
Something about us rugby types – our schedules fill up quickly. A day off becomes busier than a hectic day at the office. The last minute is a generous allotment compared to our notion of packing for a trip.
I was scheduled to work twelve hours in Los Banos last Thursday, ostensibly getting off at 8 PM. Of course I scheduled a red-eye from SFO leaving at 11 PM.
A look at a map will inform that this is an optimistic assessment. A look at the patient who came through my waiting room door at precisely one minute until eight PM, holding her eye and clearly in agony, suggested that this was an impossible dream.
Heaven be praised! It was merely potting soil under the upper lid. Ultraviolet exam revealed a mild chemical conjunctivitis with no damage to the sclera. Some lavage, application of drops and a patch and Bob’s your uncle!
The red-eye allowed me to have lunch in downtown Atlanta with my father and three of four siblings before heading over to Columbus. My father and fourth sib had been in Pelicanland only one week previously, including a two-day trip to Yosemite, so the home fires were burning brightly.
In Columbus, Ray Davis had done his usual superb job of organizing an event. The commanding general attended Friday night’s social, Major General Walter Wojdakowski, who looks like and is indeed a former lock at rugby football.
With the reduction in US forces by more than fifty percent since the end of the Cold War and the increase in operations tempo since the advent of its successor global conflict, the military club championships have dwindled from almost fifty entrants in the eighties to eight now.
But the spirit and the spunk, the competition and the camaraderie, the on-field zeal and the off-field zaniness are all just as I remembered, and I was right at home.
The final was a very good game between a freshman/sophomore team from West Point and a team of mostly Air Force graduates, which the former Zoomies pulled out at the end.
There were of course old acquaintances to renew and new referees to coach, as well as plenty of barbecue to eat.
One note on Life Outside our Costal Enclaves:
A coffee run was made Sunday morning. Three refs and four various large coffees were involved. Cap Pelletier, who lives in San Diego, was in the lead at the checkout line.
The woman said, “That’ll be $3.96, sugar.”
Cap has been around enough not to say, “We don’t need any sugar, thanks”, but not enough not to say, “I’m paying for four coffees.”
And she said, “Is $3.96 too much for four coffees where you come from?”
CHRIS FISHER
“I'm going to be the commentator at the Churchill Cup at Santa Clara. I was selected because I can speak some Maori, referee games and I used to write the scripts for FOX Sports World rugby program.”
THIS WEEK'S PHOTO
HAIL, PELICUS!
THREE NORCAL CHAMPIONS:
COLLEGE FINALS AT STANFORD
Division Two Women:
UC SANTA CRUZ 22 – Plymouth State 10
Division One Women
STANFORD 45 – Navy 12
STANFORD 15 – Penn State 12
Division One Men:
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA 30 – Utah 11
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA 29 – Brigham Young Univ. 26
We know that the touch judges included Pete Smith and Jim Crenshaw. We believe that John Pohlman and possibly others were involved but have not received any reports from anyone in NorCal about this event.
Scott Wood ran the scoreboard.
FEEDBACK FROM THE HEAD REFEREE
Kevin McCaslin, who got to do a close Cal – BYU final, sends along some thanks:
“Pete Smith did a fantastic job [coordinating touch judges], I am sure as you expected. All the referees from NorCal were fantastic and worked hard on both days. The efforts even ramped up for the championship matches. Great society and crew - thank you again for being such good hosts to the referees over the past several years for the premier event in the USA.”
THIS COMING WEEKEND AT STANFORD
This Saturday and Sunday will be the second annual Pacific Coast High School Invitational at Stanford. There will be several featured matches and a barbecue in the grove late Saturday afternoon.
On Saturday there will be three Grizzly Shield matches for Under-23 women.
On both Saturday and Sunday, Crawshay’s Welsh will be playing at noon: on Saturday their Bs will play Jesuit’s developmental squad; on Sunday their As will play Golden Gate U-23.
Crawshays is something of the Welsh Barbarians. They are playing in Albuquerque this Wednesday and in San Luis Obispo next week.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crawshays_RFC
These games will be refereed by Pacific Coast B panel referees from NorCal, PNW and Utah, but plenty of touch judges are needed and will be greatly appreciated. Please let us know if you can be there either or both days.
BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL PLAYOFFS
TIER ONE
Semifinal:
VACAVILLE 10 – Elsie Allen 5 Referee: Jim Crenshaw
Final:
JESUIT 36 – Vacaville 15 Referee: Tony Latu
Touch Judges: Dave Miller, JC van Staden
Both teams already have reservations for the National at Dartmouth’s new pitch on the East Coast. The winner will play at Tier 1, loser at Tier 2. I think that the Top 4 teams in NorCal should all be at the Tier 1 competition. Anyway, Vacaville was the under-dog, but Jesuit didn't take that for granted.
Jesuit first dotted down at the sixth minute and they didn't look back. They won the game 36-15. Thanks to the T/J: Dr. Miller and JC.
TIER TWO
Saturday, May 6, Semi-final:
RIO RUGBY 41 – Sonoma 0 Referee: Kat Todd-Schwartz
At Rio Americano (Sacramento)
This was a fairly fast Tier II play-off game. I had hoped for a close game, and made sure we were all in agreement on what would occur if we had a tie game at full time. However, such contingency plans were not needed as this was a one sided game at the end of the day. Sonoma was early and organized before the game, but were outplayed by the Rio backs. Two yellow cards were issued to Sonoma players for dangerous tackles. The second player reportedly commented that he thought he should be given a warning first (e.g. one 'free' take-the-other-player's-head-off tackle). Rio played well, but Sonoma should be commended for a strong season overall.
TIER TWO FINAL, NOT SURE WHEN:
Burbank – Rio Referee: ?
Once we know the time and place we’ll get a good Pelican on it!
OTHER RUGBY GAMES
Saturday, May 5
Rocca Field, SFGG Grounds, Treasure Island
San Francisco-Golden Gate 36 – Swords RFC 36Referee: Joe Leisek
Touch Judges: Mike Gadoua, Paul Berman
A great rugby Saturday started with my arrival at the SFGG grounds on a sunny, cool day. The first place I went was the referee's room. What a great room it has turned out to be! A very warm, inviting feel: newly-painted, a sofa and two chairs, framed photos and jerseys, and a framed photo of someone who looks like Bjorn Stumer issuing a yellow card to a Humboldt State player. Bjorn is project manager for the renovation of this room, and he deserves our gratitude for his work. The photo is a fine tribute to his efforts.
I walked outside and joined SFGG player Brendan Dobel who was watching Mike Gadoua referee the curtain-raiser, SFGG U23 v. USF. Well, Brendan might've been watching the players, but I watched Mike. He looked great and showed flashes of his sevens speed.
Soon a few cabs and shuttle vans drove up and deposited an Irish rugby club. Four or five of them were even dressed as leprechauns. I was soon told by a club representative, however, that these were the Englishmen on tour with the Swords club, and that their garb was punishment for being English and for freeloading off the Irish.
Swords is the capital of the county of Fingal and is near Dublin. I did a bit of research on Saturday evening (Googlin' on a Saturday night!) and found an interesting story about the club's history:
http://www.swordsrfc.com/clubinfo-history.htm
The match was great fun. With Mike and Paul on the touchlines, I felt very comfortable. Both teams wanted to run, and they did. Swords featured more tactical kicking by the experienced and skilled flyhalf. They also managed a rolling maul that was astonishingly effective. The first half ended up deadlocked at 17, both teams scoring three tries with one conversion.
(So I suppose I refereed two draws.)
The second half started to look like the game would go SFGG's way, but the tourists simply re-charged their mauling engine and came back to very nearly win the match. A penalty kick awarded to Swords in the last minute, about 25 metres out and about 15 metres from the left post, faded just to the left.
This was a very competitive match between two sides that played hard.
The after-match social featured a great atmosphere (with a few English leprechauns), as the tourists looked forward to a few more days in San Francisco before heading back to Ireland.
Saturday, May 6
SILVERHAWKS 71 – Fog B 0 Referee: Chris Fisher
The only thing to really standout in this game was a move I've never seen before. A Fog player jumped six feet in the air and did a flying karate kick over a Silverhawk player. He barely hit the player in the face. I blew my whistle not knowing what to call. Is there a law against six feet high karate kicks or not? In the end, I called a penalty for dangerous play and awarded a scrum on the advice of the Silverhawk captain, Kenny Bousfield, who said, "A penalty is a little excessive since the player didn't know what he was doing." And since everyone was cracking up with laughter I awarded the scrum.
The question begs: have other refs been confronted with a situation where they didn't know what to call? What happens if a dog runs onto the field and grabs the ball and runs off with if?
Tuesday, May 2
Arnold Field, Sonoma
SONOMA HS 10 – Santa Rosa HS 7 Referee: Bo Rodman
Touch Judges: Joe Leisek, Larry West, Calvin Rodman
The annual Rugby Under the Lights fundraising match between Sonoma and Santa Rosa high school boys teams was a great event, as it is every year. Congratulations to Kevin Brown, his coaches, players, and volunteers, for staging another success. The game itself was entertaining, as Kevin's boys came back to edge the visitors in a very tight, exciting defensive contest.
Tuesday, May 2, at Cougar Rugby Complex, Carmichael
Freshman/sophomore playoff semi-final:
COUGARS 39 –Rio 15 Referee: Ray Schwartz
Touch Judges: Michael Taylor, Rob McVicar
A tale of two halves, as CRC scored first but was matched by Rio Rugby. The half ended 17-15. Cougars ran away with the second half as Rio stopped tackling just as the Cougars stepped up their pace. The Frosh/Soph competition in Sacramento is a key factor in explaining the depth and stability of these many clubs.
Wednesday, May 3, Cougar Rugby Complex
Varsity friendly
COUGARS 41 – Christian Brothers 21 Referee: Ray Schwartz
Tapped for games two days in a row by Cougar head coach Joe Cavallaro, how could I say no?! Similar story, with a tales of two halves. CRC scored first, tallying 2 tries, but Brothers Rugby, featuring a number of Cordova Lancers, come back to draw the game to 10-7 at the half.
Scoring opened up in the second half, lead by the Cougars senior wing Tyler Harrison, who showed extraordinary strength and balance to go with his blistering pace. I was relieved to find out Tyler would be attending UC Davis this coming fall! The Cougars pulled away as Christian Brothers seemed to stop tackling, though CB's sophomore flanker Polo had a blistering and bruising long run for a try, and flyhalf Joe Malm outraced all others on his own gutsy chip ahead.
Only after the match was I told the reason for the friendly was a tune up for the upcoming Pacific Coast Invitational High School Tournament, this coming weekend at Stanford. Cougars are looking good, but Brothers Rugby announced that they simply couldn't muster the numbers to make the Mother's Day weekend trip worthwhile.
Friday evening, Jesuit High, Sacramento
JV Final
JESUIT 10 – Golden Eagles 5 Referee: Ray Schwartz
I arrived to see a huge crowd gathered and fixated on JC van Staden as he was calling the F/S Final between Cougars RC v Jesuit. I kitted up, strapped on my knee brace, and trotted down the Jesuit sideline to check on the next group of gladiators readying for battle. Jesuit looked calm and organized, led by Fred Khasigian and Greg Joseph. The Golden Eagles, led by Tom Chute and David Bentley were being led passionately thru the paces by Mr. Bentley.
I met the captains at the center stripe just before kickoff, Jesuit's Alex a sharp looking #8, and the Golden Eagles' A.J. a scruffy little hooker. It seemed like two very different sides indeed. I wondered inwardly how the Golden Eagles could ever hope to contain the Jesuit juggernaut. But Jesuit would self-destruct a bit as they were called repeatedly for hands in the ruck, twice in a row early on, before they finally executed a perfect poach just before a ruck could form.
I appreciated that they were trying to gain possession, and did so legally several times, but too often they were seen fighting for the ball while physically on the ground. Leading 5-0, and just before halftime, I had seen enough and felt the need to yellow card the Jesuit 12, as he was prone, diving over a tackled player, and slapping at the ball, just two meters away from a possible try. He couldn't understand why he had to sit, the concept of 'repeated team infringements' being lost on this rugby neophyte. But his captain understood, and rightfully was frustrated that his teammates would not listen to him or me.
Jesuit scored again early in the second half as the Golden Eagles could not capitalize on the man advantage, but they would soon pounce on a rare Jesuit mistake, a ball tossed backwards to no one was then fly-hacked by the Golden Eagles 14 who won the footrace to dot the ball down less than a foot from in touch in goal.
The rest of the game was played at a furious pace and with great passion, but without further scoring. After the match it was made clear to me that the Golden Eagles have a full Varsity side that will heading to Stanford. And, of course, Jesuit had a big game to play versus Vacaville the very next day.
SVHSRC Frosh/soph Final on May 4, 2006
COUGARS 26 – Jesuit 24 Referee: JC van Staden
I picked up the level off urgency from both teams before the match started, where both team was ready to take the field 20 minutes before the scheduled time. Cougars were starting with all out from the kick-off, but Jesuit put a damper on their assault with good tackling and a great interception try just 7 minutes in the 1st half. Cougars were rattled, and Jesuit step up to the plate with another try about 15 minutes later, which put them in the lead by 12 points. There was no kicking for position from either team at a penalty. Cougars did not let go, which resulted in a Mexican stand off. Tries were flying in from both teams, tackles where roofless. Key players where sub by injury, just to be replaced with better once. It was rugby the way it should be!
With 2 minutes to go Jesuit was in the lead with 3 points, and Cougars were attacking like there was no tomorrow. Two times Cougars run it to the in goal, just to be called back for a forward pass and a penalty for hands in the ruck. Still they kept beautiful composure and hanged in there. With the clock on the end and quick reaction by Cougar’s captain, a quick tap ended in an unconverted try, sealing the game for themselves @ 26-24.
These kids understand rugby. To have U/17 rugby like this will be the first for the USA. If we can build a rugby culture in the USA the way Jesuit and the Cougars are doing it, we will be ready to take on the rest of the world in no time. Good luck coaches, players and managers. You guy’s are doing a great job.
05/07/06
Davis 0 – Alameda 8 Referee: Kat Todd-Schwartz
The Lady Devils hosted the Alameda team on a beautiful Sunday afternoon in Davis. Alameda scored one try in the first half and ended the game with a successful penalty kick. It seemed the players were not overly motivated until the last 10 minutes of the game when both teams played aggressive rugby with multiple occurrences of stolen ball. However, it was a little late for Davis, and, although they had decent scoring opportunities, they did not recover.
PELICANS IN ALL DIRECTIONS
HIS FIRST TEST MATCHES: PAUL AND MARY BRETZ IN THE CAYMANS
Thursday April 30th: We arrived at Cayman airport Thursday evening and were met by Jeremy Channon a local referee who proceeded to drive us to our vehicle that was donated by one of Alasdair Robertson’s partners. Alasdair is a talented referee who has represented the NAWIRA (North America - West Indies Rugby Association) referees at the LA sevens tournament. Jeremy then proceeded to drop us off at our condo, a two-bedroom condo, the Corals Sands, overlooking the ocean on the west side of the island. There are 8 referees in the Caymans and all of them are either lawyers or accountants.
Friday: after enjoying the afternoon sun I coached Ian Beresford, a local referee who refereed the Cayman A Vs Canada under 21 A match. In addition to refereeing the Cayman vs. Bermuda and Cayman vs. Canada under 21 matches, the IRB asked that USA appoint a referee coach to help develop the referee society. In all I coached 3 referees, ran a field session, and ran a class session on tackle, ruck, and touch judge protocol.
The Caymans take their rugby seriously and are an active group on the Island. Two years ago the fields and clubhouse were completely destroyed by Hurricane Ivan. In order to get life back to a sense of normalcy the government asked all clubs to expedite the rebuilding of fields and facilities for all sporting activities. All of the rugby teams and referees joined in to rebuild the club-house and fields. Players and referees spent more than a month picking broken glass, furniture, housing materials, and everything in between from the field. They also rebuilt the roof and interior of the clubhouse. They were having games six months before the soccer or cricket clubs were up and running. The players are ex-pats from rugby playing countries around the world. Welsh, Scotts, Brits, French, Aussies, Kiwis all play for Cayman’s national side.
Saturday: USA referees, care of Ed Todd, purchased a series of training aids designed to help train referees on running lines and recognizing the tackle and ruck phases of play. These aids were used to help develop the Caymans Saturday morning. The field exercise lasted about two hours. We shared the field with the Canada team and about 50 kids who were playing under-6 rugby.
Sunday: Mary and I had brunch at the Ritz, knowing full well that I would only eat once for the day. There is no better way to commemorate a first international match then to spend the morning poolside eating fantastically prepared food with your wife. After the brunch Mary and I toured the island until it was time for the first match for the week, Cayman Vs Bermuda. Cayman demonstrated superior skill in ball handling at the tackle and were able to control the rucks with aggressive rucking. Cayman also had an explosive backline, which they used with proficiency easily beating Bermuda 37-17.
Monday: Mary and I spent the morning diving. The Cayman Islands offer some of the best diving in the world. The water is clear and warm, a nice contrast to diving in the cold murky waters of Monterey Bay. Monday afternoon was spent sight seeing-seeing and shopping.
Tuesday was a rugby day and I coached Alasdair as he refereed Bermuda against Canada Under 21. Canada is using this trip as a vehicle for selection to the U 21 team that will be visiting Ireland this coming summer. Canada’s Under 21 flyhalf is also the starting fullback for Cal. After the game players, fans, and referees watched the video of the match in the clubhouse.
Wednesday evening the referee society met in one of the law offices to discuss current issues related to tackle and rucks. Earlier in the day I went diving with Paul Deker, a rugby supporter who owns his own dive boat. If you ever get a chance to visit the Island look him up (94-SCUBA). I would also suggest you use a small dive operation as you will get more diving, a better experience, and individualized attention. Unfortunately Mary could not join me on this dive, as she had to return home. Had we known what the accommodations were we would have brought the kids. However I was only given 2 weeks notice to attend this ten day long event and thought there may be too much confusion to bring two small kids.
Thursday afternoon I coached Jeremy Channon, an English referee in only his third year of refereeing. Jeremy was very impressive and has a great deal of potential. Jeremy refereed a combined Cayman/Bermuda side against the Canada under 21 reserves. Canada easily won the match.
Saturday’s match between Cayman and Canada was the most eagerly anticipated match of the week. Word quickly got around the island that this was going to be a good match and I ran into lots of people on the island who mentioned that they were going to attend it. The grandstands were packed prior to the match and the sidelines held the overflow. It was also the hottest day of the week and both teams felt that the heat would take its toll. Cayman’s strength was their pack while Canada felt their backs were superior. In the end youth and fitness prevailed over experience. In the 70th minute of play, with the score 20-10 in favor of Canada, Cal’s starting fullback and under 21 flyhalf kicked the ball into space from the base of the ruck. Canada’s wing chased the ball down in goal and grounded the ball to make the score 25-10 and after the conversion 27-10. That kick sealed the fate of the game, as the score remained unchanged.
Saturday night was spent socializing in one of the many night spots. The Canadian coaching staff finally let the boys loose to enjoy the culture. NAWIRA and the IRB have set up a development program for referees to visit the US. Earlier this year I met up with a referee from Bermuda who was working in Southern California. In Late April I met up with another referee from Trinidad. The ground work has been laid for one of the referees from Cayman to stay in Northern California hopefully early next year if all the details can be worked out.
[Editor’s Note: This program unfortunately only came to the attention of the NCRRS board of directors too late in the season to effect our participation in it for 2006. Be assured that the Pelican Society will be adopting a NAWIRA referee next season. Tom Jones, the regional IRB representative, knows that we are fully aboard.]
MATT EASON TO THE POTOMAC SOCIETY
What a full weekend. I flew to Baltimore on Friday on exchange as a referee evaluator/coach. I arrived late Friday evening and spent what was left of the night with my host Pelicus Migratus, Skip Vaughn, and his new bride Barb. We reminisced about the good ole’ days, and turned in for the night.
The Chamber of Commerce apparently knew I was coming, as with the weather all weekend was spectacular. On Saturday, I was treated to a post post-season local friendly between two Division 2 and 3 clubs outside of Annapolis. After the match, Skip and Barb gave me a complete tour of Annapolis, and a blue-crab lunch. Later that evening, May 6, we went to a friend of Skip’s house for a Cinco de Mayo party.
Sunday was a hard core rugby day. I gave 5 coaching sessions, and 1 formal evaluation at the Rites of Spring Tournament. Perfectly hosted event by both the tournament, and the referee in charge. Caught the red-eye home last night, and now have a large pile of paperwork to type up. Overall a great exchange, and hopefully we can continue to take advantage of it.
I wish I could be more eloquent in my report, but I think I’m still asleep.
BJORN STUMER AND BO RODMAN TO THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
"Flocking Northwards"
I approached my very first exchange, up to the Pacific Northwest Under 19th Championship, with a degree of trepidation. Would all the arrangements fall into place? Will my left calf fail me again? Will I provide good service to the players and honor for our society? I packed all of these worries in my old kitbag along with plenty optimism and no rain gear & met up with Bo Rodman for our northern adventure.
All arrangements went quite well, thanks to the hard work of new exchange officer Kat Todd Schwartz. The Oakland airport proved an excellent alternative to SFO & Alaska Airlines provided good & efficient service.
Lynn Howard, the Northwest Society's Development Officer picked us up at the airport and, after a fine meal of roasted meats & imported beer, deposited us at the comfortable & convenient Holiday Inn Express in Lacey, a suburb of Washington's state capital Olympia.
After a few beers at a nearby pub, and much trivia on the laws of the game initiated by Bo, we retired for the night and were picked up the following morning by local rugby figure and Kiwi expat Mark Sullivan (Solly).
Solly provided us with transportation & proved to be a stout companion on my Saturday night outing while Bo attended a Seattle baseball match with old pals. Solly also ran touch for us on a number of matches, and his knowledge of the game helped us make the "team of three' concept a veritable success thereby affording the best possible officiating for the young players.
Saturday was a full day of rugby, under a canopy of grey clouds, at the beautiful Rainier Vista Park in Lacey. There we met up with a few more referees who would honor the day, as well as with Union Allocator Craig Parish (Wags) whom Bo & I presented with a California musical bottle opener – it was a delight to see the joy in his eyes as the Cal's fighting song issued from the small yet smart device!
A quick run through the checklists & the rules of the day & the tournament was on! I did the first match that saw local contenders, and ultimate winners, Budd Bay see off Kent, from Kent Valley just north of Lacey, with a final score of 12 - 3. Budd Bay along with Chuckanut from Bellingham (just south of the Canadian border) were two high school sides that may be compared with our illustrious ones, and both impressed with their skill and organization.
I cannot say much about my following match, as my records of it were destroyed in the copious rain that saluted us the following morning. Both Bo & I stood shivering in the incessant cold rain, while the local crowd displayed items of wet wear never seen in California.
I got the final of Washington's Division 2 High Schools & Bo expertly handled the Girls’ final. Mine was a very even match in which Seattle saw off a determined Valley side by 5-0. A step in touch right before the touchline's flag, expertly identified by Wags at touch, prevented Valley from tying after a great run parallel to the line of touch.
Bo had the penultimate match after which we quickly repaired to the airport for our return home.
Did I mention the rain? Just to give you an idea, I had my kit bag under a tent and in it, surrounded by much stuff, the hard case of my sunglasses (obviously unused that week-end). When I opened it this morning on my way to work I found the small cloth I use to clean up the glasses totally soaked!! Never again will I complain about a rainy day in the Bay Area!! Sunny however was the disposition of our gracious hosts, as well as the good nature of the crowd of supporters, proud parents, and old rugger-heads. Official evaluations could not be given to us, as these were high school matches, but much useful advice was given as the local rugby & referee community embraced quickly & warmly.
Bo and I were proud to represent our society which, by the way, ably prepared us to officiate at a level that brought us instant respect. As with all foreign rugby experiences, after a matter of minutes we were at home among family. Having played for many years I expected this, but was pleasantly surprised at how much I learned that will help my game. It was a wonderful exchange, good sport was had, fun was guaranteed. A great thank you goes out to local officials who made this possible, and to the Northwest society which provided us with excellent matches, fan tasting hospitality, and good fellowship."
BRUCE CARTER TO FORT BENNING
A national appointment took me to The Home of the Infantry, Fort Benning, in lovely Columbus, Georgia, for the military club championships this past weekend.
My fondest rugby memories as a player, which means my fondest rugby memories of all, have to do with military rugby. And none shines brighter amidst my aging neurons than the effortless recollection of every minute of all four of our games on May 4-5, 1985, when Monterey Military won the USARFU National Military Championship in Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
To win it all and fall down delirious was something I’d never thought I’d do. It exceeded my expectations as a player, whereas my expectations as a referee were significantly higher than where my talent and my opportunities allowed me to go. So yes, those are the fondest days I shall ever have following the bouncing oval ball.
It was then with grateful pleasure that I received the assignment to work this championship event twenty-one years on.
Something about us rugby types – our schedules fill up quickly. A day off becomes busier than a hectic day at the office. The last minute is a generous allotment compared to our notion of packing for a trip.
I was scheduled to work twelve hours in Los Banos last Thursday, ostensibly getting off at 8 PM. Of course I scheduled a red-eye from SFO leaving at 11 PM.
A look at a map will inform that this is an optimistic assessment. A look at the patient who came through my waiting room door at precisely one minute until eight PM, holding her eye and clearly in agony, suggested that this was an impossible dream.
Heaven be praised! It was merely potting soil under the upper lid. Ultraviolet exam revealed a mild chemical conjunctivitis with no damage to the sclera. Some lavage, application of drops and a patch and Bob’s your uncle!
The red-eye allowed me to have lunch in downtown Atlanta with my father and three of four siblings before heading over to Columbus. My father and fourth sib had been in Pelicanland only one week previously, including a two-day trip to Yosemite, so the home fires were burning brightly.
In Columbus, Ray Davis had done his usual superb job of organizing an event. The commanding general attended Friday night’s social, Major General Walter Wojdakowski, who looks like and is indeed a former lock at rugby football.
With the reduction in US forces by more than fifty percent since the end of the Cold War and the increase in operations tempo since the advent of its successor global conflict, the military club championships have dwindled from almost fifty entrants in the eighties to eight now.
But the spirit and the spunk, the competition and the camaraderie, the on-field zeal and the off-field zaniness are all just as I remembered, and I was right at home.
The final was a very good game between a freshman/sophomore team from West Point and a team of mostly Air Force graduates, which the former Zoomies pulled out at the end.
There were of course old acquaintances to renew and new referees to coach, as well as plenty of barbecue to eat.
One note on Life Outside our Costal Enclaves:
A coffee run was made Sunday morning. Three refs and four various large coffees were involved. Cap Pelletier, who lives in San Diego, was in the lead at the checkout line.
The woman said, “That’ll be $3.96, sugar.”
Cap has been around enough not to say, “We don’t need any sugar, thanks”, but not enough not to say, “I’m paying for four coffees.”
And she said, “Is $3.96 too much for four coffees where you come from?”
CHRIS FISHER
“I'm going to be the commentator at the Churchill Cup at Santa Clara. I was selected because I can speak some Maori, referee games and I used to write the scripts for FOX Sports World rugby program.”
THIS WEEK'S PHOTO
Joe Leisek, Mike Gadoua and Paul Berman further decorate the Referee Changing Room at the SF/Golden Gate clubhouse with their number ones!
HAIL, PELICUS!
For the Senate
Pelicus Scriptoris
