Rugby surpasses expectations

Jamie Albright
May 29, 2009
Filed under Sports

Determination is one word that fans use to refer to Beast Meck men’s rugby.  The team has once again achieved the highest title possible for its division, winning 12-10 over Myers Park on May 9 in the North Carolina High School State Championship. 

Last year, the team impressed fans by taking home the State Championship title in only their second year of existence.  That they were able to competitively participate in the Division I State Championships for the first time alone is an accomplishment; last year they competed as a Division II team.

After losing 10-0 to the Mustangs earlier in the season, one might expect the Eagles to feel less than optimistic about the Championship game.  But, as senior Samuel Kimber explains, the team never lets a loss affect them.

“We really try to keep up a positive attitude at all times, because we know that negativity won’t take us anywhere,” Kimber says.

Myers Park acquired a 10 point lead early in the first half of the match at Charlotte Rugby club, where the team plays most of their matches.  However, the ever-optimistic rugby players were not discouraged and turned the score around early in the second half.  After securing a two point lead, they held off the Mustangs for the rest of the match to secure their win.

The boys feel that this year’s season has been most successful in creating a strong bond between teammates, an aspect of the team that has been key to their performance.  The team participates in group meals before matches and make up nicknames for each other, which reflects their love for camaraderie. 

Sophomore Matt Anderson explains, “Some of the guys call me Rudy, like the football movie, which is kind of cool because it really gives the feeling of being a part of more than just a sports team.”

Junior medic Adriana Golindano feels grateful to be a part of the entire ordeal, calling the team a family.

“I can’t believe I’ve been able to see them win two State Championships in a row, and I can hardly imagine what they will accomplish next year.  I’m sure it’s going to be amazing.” she says. 

This sentiment resonates with most of the team’s fans, as the self-proclaimed “family” waits in anticipation of what next year’s season will bring.