Dennis Storer Classic

At the beginning of this year I had the pleasure of joining the U of O men's rugby team in LA for the annual PAC-10 rugby tournament. Washington, USC, Oregon State, Oregon, UCLA, Cal, and Arizona were the team's that were present this year. To be honest when I was first invited to this it was a little unbelievable to me. Let me explain. It started with me taking a few classes at the local community college. Otherwise I wouldn't of even thought about trying out for the U of O team. I mean, I was very happy playing for a men's team in Eugene (I was into my 4th year of playing with them). So as soon as I made this decision I decided to chat with the Team Coordinator. My goal was to come out for the winter practices to meet the team. That way when the Fall term came around I would already be acquainted with everyone. So far so good. I just need to sign a waiver, and I can come out to practice.

This was going to be my 7th year of rugby so nervousness was completely out of the equation. There was no doubt in my head about why I was there. It was going to be a lot of fun playing with a new team, and meeting some new people...and it was...still is. Practice went really well; everyone was really cool. I thought I did pretty well, and explained to them how I was going to be playing in the fall. At the end of practice David (the team coordinator) came up to me, and asked if I had any plans in a couple weeks. Well since I had just gotten laid off from my job I of course did not. He goes on to explain to me the details of the trip down to LA, and asked if I would be interested in going with the team. I was hesitant at first, because I had no money to speak of at all and the money I did have was going towards the few bills I had. He went on to explain that the trip was basically already paid for (my eyes widen with excitement), and all I would really have to cover was the food. I mean, what would you do? You get offered a free trip to LA for 5 days. All you have to pay for is food. It was an easy decision to say the least.


So I spend the rest of the next two weeks practicing, and learning all of the plays. The day before I am supposed to leave my wonderful, wonderful, spectacular parent's wanted to talk to me a bit about the trip. They express their concern with how I will pay for my food (which I kind of agreed with them...it was an issue). Well they agreed this was going to be a once in a lifetime opportunity, and an amazing experience; they agree to pay for my food (WOW). I love you mom, and dad! The day I leave, I am super pumped. The team had chartered a bus for LA. I pack my bags, bring my DVD's, and homework. This is going to be a long trip...but the outcome will be one for the books. What a way to start the year. Stay tuned for the rest of the story...my hands are tired of typing right now.