West Potomac

Chad "Sleeves" Weikel's Last Days

2012-01-06T10:37:00.006-05:00

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the departure of Chad "Sleeves" Weikel. Sleeves was an interesting man who, beneath is rugged exterior of tattoos, alcohol, and large trucks, was a bit of an ass. But I think it is very accurate to say that we as a club will miss his laughter, smile, and large truck.

That truck was a reliable piece of equipment and allowed us to move goal post pads, tents, tables, and other game day necessities. Without it, we could have lost goal post pads or worse, a tent. To the truck, I bid thee adieu. To Sleeves, I can only provide advice. Please get tatoos like this

We would definitely miss you more if you do.

So please come out to Jay's Saloon in Arlington this Saturday night around 8 pm to give him a proper send off.

And now some of my favorite Chad Weikel moments caught on camera...

This picture says, "Hell no I'm not rucking."

This picture says, "Yes I'm adorable."

Happy Valley Match Date Changed to 10/1

2011-09-10T17:11:00.002-04:00

Match versus Happy Valley was postponed due to impassable roads. The new match date is 10/1/11 at Happy Valley. Plan on making a trip out of it so change your schedule accordingly.

2011 Fall Season Has Begun

2011-08-23T12:05:00.002-04:00

West Potomac's fall campaign began with a discreet, stealthiness on Saturday at Gravelly. We attempt such things again this coming Saturday on 8/27/2011 from 10 am to 12 pm. Schedule for the fall is posted below:

10-Sep: @ Happy Valley
17-Sep: HOME Pax River
24-Sep: @ Renegades
1-Oct: BYE
8-Oct: HOME Winchester
15-Oct: @ Quantico
22-Oct: @ North Bay
29-Oct: HOME Rappahannock
5-Nov: @ Chambersburg
12-Nov: @Warrenton
19-Nov: BYE

Washington Pick 7's Tournament

2011-06-05T20:05:00.002-04:00

West Potomac entered the "social" division of Washington 7's tourney. After a tough loss to Georgetown Law in the first match, the team responded with a victory of Washington's 2nd side. Some friends joined up for a contest versus Washington's 1st side in the Semifinals but the squad ran out of time in the come back after giving up a few easy tries early.

The 3rd place match featured a rematch versus Georgetown Law to the delight of West Pot. The team wanted to post a shutout and put down 7 tries. Only one of those happened, but winning 49 to 5 to take 3rd was a great finish to the day.

Good work fellas.

Roster:
Brent
Mike
Steve
Sean
Scott
Beard (fandom only)
Bible
Fred
Henry
Anwar
Josh
Trevelle
Chris

Tweet from Try For Others (TFO) (TryForOthers)

2011-03-03T15:26:00.001-05:00

Try For Others (TFO) (TryForOthers):
Who says PROPS can't sidestep? http://fb.me/U5IRkd8z

http://twitter.com/TryForOthers/status/43406131661516800

(Sent via Seesmic http://www.seesmic.com)

2011 Spring Schedule

2011-02-20T21:57:00.003-05:00

West Potomac has a full schedule this Spring. Dates and various points about some dates are below.

March 5 - Spring Thaw - Our 26th annual Spring Thaw tournament. Given Global Warming, expect this weekend to be freezing
March 12 - At Chambersburg
March 19 - Warrenton
March 26 - 4 Leaf's 15s @ NYC - Hostels, gang violence, needles, and the risk of contracting the Clap from the Hudson
April 2 - South Pittsburgh
April 9 - At Rocky Gorge
April 16 - At Virginia RFC
April 23 - Bye Week - Relax, praise Jesus.
April 30 - TBD - Likely to be the PBR cup.
May 7 - Winchester Beer Tournament - Rugby and Beer
May 14 - Old Boy vs. Young Boy Weekend An annual tradition where Old Boys bitch and Young Boys win.

2011 Officers

2011-02-13T17:02:00.002-05:00

West Potomac RFC held elections for 2011 once again proving West Pot is better than Egypt

President: Dave "Bible" Gedeon
Match Secretary: Marc Tucher
Treasurer: Paul "Old Man" Gessner
Recruiting Chair: David "Beard" Rogge
Social Chair: Jason Hewgley
Governor: MIke "the Man" Graul

Thanks to all who voted.

Six Nations Rugby at Biergarten Haus on H St Saturday!!

2011-02-04T13:29:00.006-05:00

West Potomac RFC is hosting a Six Nations viewing Party at the Biergarten Haus on H St starting this Saturday at Noon. Join us for $.50 wings and $5 dollar drafts of select beers, click on the flyer below for more details.

Robb & Jo at the Atlas Holiday Market

2010-12-18T09:53:00.001-05:00

Howdy all,

I am sure that we have mentioned this to a lot of you -- and maybe even emailed a few of you already -- but Jo and I (aka Highway to Hill) have booked a booth this Sunday at the Atlas Holiday Market. The market runs from 2:00 - 8:00 and is in the lobby of the Atlas Performing Arts Center on H Street NE. The Atlas is screening White Christmas a couple times during the day (for free, but you need tickets first) so it will be a nice day to roll out to H Street, get some brunch, and check out the movie and vendors. Here are the details:

Atlas Holiday Market

2-8 pm @ The Atlas Performing Arts Center

1333 H Street NE | Washington D.C., DC 20002-4446

http://www.highwaytohill.com/atlas-holiday-market-preview/

This is the first retail endeavor that we have gotten ourselves into -- after a couple years of planning/stalling -- and we are pretty excited and extremely nervous. So, we are calling in all of our markers, favors, blackmail threats, blood oaths, life debts, and latent Manchurian Candidate-style psychological programming: come out and bring a friend and both of you buy lots of stuff that you really don't need and will probably get for free if we don't sell it to other people.

Your pals,
Robb & Jo

+ + + +

PS. Because it's the fourth day of Christmas and to sweeten the deal (that's some fancy marketing talk), here are four reasons to come out on Sunday:

1. If you don't, the terrorist whine. Seriously, they get all bitchy about how they were hoping that you would come so that they could mock your consumerism and your tepid observance of an infidel religious right. Don't get me wrong, they might win too but they would just be really poor sports about it and complain about how the field conditions were sub-par or that they really prefer a seeded bracket tournament set-up over pool play. But let's be honest, I really doubt that they will win. The terrorists have had trouble recruiting since the NCAA-CIA cracked down on their fund raising practices and they are going to have a big personnel mismatch trying to line up against The Jo, who is having the type of season that makes the pro scouts take notice (she is borderline-unstoppable in the paint). Either way -- win or lose -- I promise you that we will not be inspecting bags but we WILL be selling bags. Also, none of the pat-downs will be random: I know EXACTLY who I want to grope.

2. Help Set Us Up For a Sophomore Slump. The only way that we can disappoint fans and critics with our second booth is if we do outrageously well our first time out. We have been wood-shedding design ideas, played a stealth show or two to generate some buzz, and just want to wreck it with our debut. That is the only way that we can sell out on our second booth or get seduced up in the whole craft festival groupie and organic yarn scene, only to show up 15 years later on the QVC version of Hollywood Squares. Ever since I was a little boy, I have wanted to be the Harper Lee of handmade retail: run one booth that was timeless and enduring and then never design again. That, and hang out with Truman Capote.

3. HHHH(2H): Holidays + H St. + Handmade + Highway (to Hill) = Random Coincidence? I think that it's safe to say by now that there are no coincidences when dealing with an organization as cloaked in secrecy and deceit as the 4H, only patterns. As everyone knows, the 4H Club is an elite faction of the Masons, organized as an American counterpoint to the Illuminati-controlled monarchies of Europe and the Vatican. We also know that the Masons built this city, and they built this city on Rock & Roll. Now, this Sunday is also the annual Rock and Shop Garage Sale at the Black Cat and if one were to follow the trail of clues criss-crossing the city he would discover a plot so sinister that it would shake the foundations of our society: the Pope and loyalists to the English Crown have co-opted 4H and Masonic symbolism in an attempt to convince the unwitting masses that the real Rock can be found in Northwest. Can non-Harvard designologist Robert Stout and his beautiful assistant uncover the truth in time to convince enough people that the true rock is in NEDC? Maybe so, maybe not, but I should be able to convince people that I am a better writer than Dan Brown...

4. We Will Actually Be Selling Some Cool Stuff. Jo and I are really proud of the handmade merch that we have lined-up for Sunday. We culled down a long list of ideas and decided to focus our efforts on some designs and products that will make good gifts for friends, family, or just yourself. We also brought in Illustrator/Designer/Maker extraordinaire Susan Meyer who gave us some hip illustrations to use and is knitting up some awesome craftnuss that will be for sale. I don't want to tip our hand too much, but you can check out some design teases here and our product lists includes: handmade soy wax candles with etched glass votives, letterpressed desk calendars, a variety of screenprinted tote and messenger bags, custom tea towels, and A Christmas Story-inspired gift/thank you cards.

Market Research for a Rugger

2010-12-02T09:38:00.001-05:00

Posted for a former George Washington University Rugby player:

Hello all,

I'm in the home stretch of a graduate school program and am working on my culminating project: a hypothetical business plan for a U.S.-based and focused rugby website. One component of the plan is a market research section, and this is where I am requesting your assistance.

Please take a minute or two to fill out this quick survey (9 multiple choice questions and should literally take only a minute or two); this really would be a big help.Click here to jump to the survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/LYXXMBD

Thank you very much and I hope everyone is well!

Jeff Morgan
GWU '03

Upcoming Social Events

2010-11-29T13:28:00.001-05:00

Gents,

I hope that everyone had a swell Thanksgiving and that the travel and turkey both went down easy. I wanted to pass along the details on a couple social events going down this week and I hope to see guys out at both to support our sponsors! Also, it's never too early to start recruiting for next year so bring out a couple rookies to these social events so that they can see how we get down and have a chance to meet the guys before we even start practicing again.

Your pal,
Sideshow

+ + + +

Tuesday 11/30 -- Blue Ribbon Art Show
8 pm - 11pm @ The Rock & Roll Hotel
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=177029645646209&index=1

In addition to some funky PBR-inspired art and $2 PBR tallboys, this will be Dan VanHoozer's last official huzzah before moving down to North Carolina. For those of you who don't know, Dan is one of our PBR sponsor reps and he has been a huge supporter of West Potomac so swing by to help see him off and have some cold beers.

Friday 12/3 -- Hamilton's 4th Anniversary Party
11:00 am - close @ Hamilton's Bar & Grill
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=175961845753275

Drink Specials + PBR Sculpture Contest + DJ's = Drunken Shenanigans. In years past, these parties have proven to be epic and -- at least according to facebook -- Virgil is on the guest list.

The Dark Arts of Rugby; Competing at the Breakdown

2010-10-14T14:08:00.001-04:00

HOOVER FUNDRAISER TONIGHT!!!

2010-10-09T18:35:00.003-04:00

I suck, I really do, this should have been posted days ago. -KJ

Help Bill, Help Firefighters, Help Yourself

2010-09-23T09:46:00.001-04:00

This just happens to fall on our bye week so this is a good opportunity for a team event to support a good cause.

On Sunday, October 3, the City of Fairfax Fire Department Benevolent Fund is hosting their 1st annual Firefighter 5k to raise money for their fund .

This fund is being established to assist City of Fairfax firefighters who have been injured in the line of duty.

If you are looking for a way to get some exercise and to support a good cause, this is a way to do both.

I have been a volunteer firefighter with this department for 3 years and I can attest that this fund is supporting a great bunch of folks who do lots of good for our City and County.

If interested, you can get your registration form and payment to me and I will be happy to hand deliver it.

I live close to the race course and invite you over for burgers, beer and football after the race.

The registration form and further info can be found at this link:

www.firefighterfund5k.com

Thanks,

Bill Evans

Visit With Hoover

2010-09-14T13:28:00.005-04:00

During the opening kickoff on Saturday, newly elected Back line selector and rugby transvestite (a forward who plays in the back line or vice versa), Paul Hoover went down with a serious neck injury while making a tackle. Thankfully our fly-half on Saturday (Jake) is a doctor in training and one of Rappahannock's Old Boys is an EMT, so they were able to keep him stable and calm while we waited for Stafford County Fire & Rescue to arrive.

Without knowing how serious Hoover's condition was, play resumed with a slight pall over the field. West Potomac honored Hoover by winning a back and forth shoot-out 45-33.

The next day we got the bad news: Hoover's spinal cord was injured by herniated discs at C4-5 and C5-6, a vertebral fracture, and ligament damage. When I spoke to Hoover at the hospital today he said the MRI revealed that he has a congenitally narrow spinal column and should not have been playing contact sports. He said the doctor told him that it was wonder something like this hadn't happened sooner.

Hoover's parents are now in town and providing him with as much comfort and assistance as they can.

He's in pretty good spirits considering the circumstances but he is thoroughly enjoying his morphine drip.

Hoover's mom has created a web page for him, you can check it out here. Hoover is concerned that the guest book is getting a little too sappy, so he requests that you all go there and spice it a little bit.

Practice Tonight/Thursday at Benning-Stoddert

2010-08-31T15:50:00.001-04:00

Gentlemen,

Good turnout on Saturday and I hope to see even more folks out this evening! Just a reminder that for the rest of the season we will be practicing on Tuesday/Thursday from 7:00 - 9:00 at Benning-Stoddert Recreation Center in SE. A link to Google Maps is below, but keep in mind that the entrance to the rec center is on East Capitol St. (Google sometimes tries to send people to the neighborhood that backs up to the field).

Also, PBR is hosting an event this Sunday for anyone who is going to be in town over the long weekend. It should be a good time (free BBQ, live music, cheap beer), below is a flier with more details.

Your pal,
Sideshow

+ + + +

Benning-Stoddert Rec Center:
MAP (click on the green arrow for directions, not the red circle)

+ + + FALL PRE-SEASON SCHEDULE + + +

Tuesday 8/31 - 15s Practice at Benning-Stoddert (7-9pm)

Thursday 9/2 - 15s Practice at Benning-Stoddert (7-9pm followed by Hamilton's)

Saturday 9/4 - Off
Sunday 9/5 - "PBRBQ" Social @ Solly's U St. Tavern (noon-8pm; 14th & U St. NW)

Tuesday 9/7 - 15s Practice at Benning-Stoddert (7-9pm)

Thursday 9/9 - 15s Practice at Benning-Stoddert (7-9pm followed by Hamilton's)

+ + + FALL SATURDAY MATCH SCHEDULE + + +

9/11 @ Rappahannock

9/18 @ Winchester

9/25 Washington Renegades

10/2 BYE

10/9 Quantico

10/16 North Bay

10/23 @ Chambersburg

10/30 BYE

11/6 Happy Valley

11/13 Warrenton

11/20 @ Pax River

Potato Gun Pix

2010-08-30T11:19:00.002-04:00

From Saturday's post practice drink up at Murray's house.

Murray loading up.

Bible preparing to fire.

Manlier Than Rugby? I'm Not Sure. Stupider? No Doubt.

2010-08-23T10:56:00.003-04:00

Thanks to the Reuben "The Sandwich" Baris for this link on "Fight Football"

Practice Tonight > Hamilton's After > Happy Hour Tomorrow

2010-08-19T15:07:00.001-04:00

Gentlemen,

Just a reminder that we have touch practice tonight from 6:30 - dark at Gravelly Point followed by a couple cold beers at Hamilton's. If you can't make it out tonight, should definitely try to swing by after work tomorrow and meet up with the club at Hamilton's for happy hour and $1 PBRs (all night long). Bring a friend, bring a coworker, bring a potential scrumhalf (hint: recruit!)...

For those of you who can't/won't come out for touch, make sure you are working on your conditioning. As you know, getting ready for the season requires more than low rep/high weight work in the gym and 30 minute jogs so plan accordingly. Returning players know the exercises that we work in practice and they can easily be done at home with no equipment so here are a couple suggested workouts:

5 rounds for time

20 push ups | 30 sit ups |40 squats
(alternately, complete as many cycles of these as you can in 20 minutes)

Sprint repeats at maximum effort

100 meters x 10 | 200 meters x 5 |400 meters x 5

4 rounds of 400 meter sprints and 40 air squats for time

150 burpees (squat thrusters for the lame) for time

100 each for time

push ups | pull ups | sit ups | squats

Cheers,
Sideshow

+ + + +

FALL SCHEDULE

Thursday 8/19 - Touch 7s Practice at Gravelly Point (6:30-dark followed by Hamilton's)

Friday 8/20 - Happy Hour at Hamilton's - $1 PBR

Tuesday 8/24 - Touch 7s Practice at Gravelly Point (6:30-dark)

Thursday 8/26 - Touch 7s Practice at Gravelly Point (6:30-dark followed by Hamilton's)

+ + + FALL PRE-SEASON BEGINS + + +

Saturday 8/28 - 15s Practice, Team Elections, and Watermelon Run (Practice: 10:00am - Noon; Watermelon Run to follow)

Tuesday 8/31 - 15s Practice at Benning-Stoddert (7-9pm)

Thursday 9/2 - 15s Practice at Benning-Stoddert (7-9pm)

Saturday 9/4 - Off

Tuesday 9/7 - 15s Practice at Benning-Stoddert (7-9pm)

Thursday 9/9 - 15s Practice at Benning-Stoddert (7-9pm)

+ + + FALL SATURDAY MATCH SCHEDULE + + +

9/11 - @ Rappahannock

9/18 @ Winchester

9/25 Washington Renegades

10/2 BYE

10/9 Quantico

10/16 North Bay

10/23 @ Chambersburg

10/30 BYE

11/6 Happy Valley

11/13 Warrenton

11/20 @ Pax River

Scavenger Hunt July 24 - Alert your friends

2010-07-24T00:08:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the late posting. -KJ

The Scavenger Hunt is this coming weekend. Forward this email to your friends and start building your teams!!! Any questions email me at bensalisbury (at) hotmail (dot) com.

July 24th 2010 Scavenger Hunt

WHAT: The 6^th Annual West Potomac Scavenger Hunt will take place on the afternoon Saturday July 24^th.

We are adding a wrinkle this year – there will be two divisions, a Champion's division and a Social Division. Teams in the Champions division will dash around the city "capturing" photos of various items and trying to solve challenging clues. The social division will allow participants to compete primarily from the comfort of the bar by creatively accomplishing tasks and challenges. (This is perfect for the lazy and in the event of adverse weather.) A great time is guaranteed for all.

The Champions Division will kick off at 1pm at Hamilton's. The Social Division will start at 2ish also at Hamilton's. The Hunt will conclude at Hamilton's at 6pm followed by scoring and awarding of prizes.

WHO: Teams of 4. Individuals are also welcome and we will pair you up with a team.

DONATION: The recommended donation for each 4 person team is $40 with $20 per player for each extra player. (Hint: Smaller teams are better).

WHY: Proceeds from the donation will be split between Men Against Breast Cancer and West Potomac Rugby club.

PRIZES: We will have a variety of outstanding prizes for winners in each division as well as other fun stuff. Prizes include:

** Weekend Ski Getaway Cabin **

** Washington Nationals Tickets **

** Massage/Spa Treatment **

** Cigar Humidor **

SCORING: Scoring will be conducted by an independent panel of judges to ensure a fun and timely award of prizes and start to the after party.

WHAT TO BRING: The hunt is carefully crafted so that it can be enjoyed by the athletic and the lazy alike. It is all about being creative and having fun. Dress comfortably. Each team will need a digital camera with a fully charged battery and a way to get pictures onto a laptop. You can expect some sort of bonus for teams appropriately attired in Pabst gear or otherwise outlandishly attired.

HAMILTONS: 233 2nd St NW, Washington, DC 20001

TEAM NAME: Come up with a good team name. There will be a reward for the best.

Benjamin C. Salisbury

Rocky Gorge 7's Info

2010-07-08T12:33:00.001-04:00

Sirs,

Here is the info for those playing this Saturday at Rocky Gorge. The roster right now is

Sean, stefan, scott, chad, Firedog, and Rich. If you can do math, then you know we are a fellow short. Please come and play. That is all.

Pitch Address:
10745 Route 108 (East Entrance)
Columbia, MD. 21044

Main Field is the Upper Field 7 and the secondary field is field 8.

From Baltimore Area
Take 95 S To Columbia. Exit 43B
Take Rt 100 towards Ellicott City/Columbia
Take 29 South
Take Rt 108 West. Exit 21B
Go 3 miles and the Fields are on your left.

From DC Area
Take 95 N To Columbia. Exit 43B
Take Rt 32 towards Ellicott City/Columbia
Take 29 South
Take Rt 108 West. Exit 21B
Go 3 miles and the Fields are on your left.

Teams so far:

BC Fat Forwards
Frederick
GODS
Rocky Gorge II
North Bay
Rocky Gorge I
West Potomac
UVA Alumni
West Louden
UMBC
UMD
Motley Side

Gessner's Pig Roast

2010-06-13T12:50:00.001-04:00

Pig Tasting Saturday, June 19, 2010

The annual Gessner Family Pig Roast is upon us. Perhaps the most important event of every summer, the Gessner Pig Roast is a great time filled with over eating, over drinking, and blackouts. Come on out for a good time. Show up around 1 to start drinking and to get good seats for the pig viewing.

Be a gentleman and bring your favorite side dish, salad or dessert. Roast pig and beer will be provided. Bring a bathing suit for swimming. There will be some small children so most of the tight forwards should remain totally covered. Volleyball and Bocci also provided. Feel free to bring your friends, families, and significant others to this festive occasional.

Practice Tonight and Tournament Saturday 6/12

2010-06-10T13:54:00.001-04:00

Good Day,

We are practicing tonight at 6:30ish to 8:30 at Gravelly Point. We had a good turnout on Tuesday so come on out and get a run in.

Saturday we are playing in Pick 7's hosted by Washington RFC. The tournament is at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD. I have not received a schedule yet but plan on our first match kicking off aroun 10 and the day wrapping up around 4. I will send out more info tomorrow with carpool info.

We could use a couple more guys this weekend so if you're interested bring out your boots and $20.

Current Roster

- The Bear

- Reuben

- Griff

- Army Allen / Mike

- Tyler

- Bible

- Stefan

- Beard

- Sean maybe

- Firedog maybe

Location of Practice:

Gravelly Point

Location of Tournament:

6336 Rosecroft Drive

Fort Washington, MD 20744-1921

Get Directions

(301) 567-4000

rosecroft.com‎

Couple of Pictures

2010-05-24T11:34:00.005-04:00

I'll get the rest of these into a legit photo album in the next couple of days, but here's a couple to get you started. -KJ

A whole lot of ugly.

Mustache, I will not be mocked by you!

Tyler, beating up on an old man. Shameful.

Running into space

2010-04-21T09:38:00.000-04:00

Another good clip showing what it means to “run at space”. We don’t want to be drifting, because that gives an upper hand to the defense. But, if we can alter our running path like the support runner does by arcing his run, he can decide whether to cut up field hard, or arc further out to get to the outside of the defense.

Putting your support player through the hole

2010-04-21T09:37:00.000-04:00

Here is a good little video talking about some of what we have been learning over the past month or two. Support runners have to be prepared to make moves without the ball and change gears to get the ball at pace. Not much more explaining to do, Ian McGeechan does it better;

Reds vs Bulls

2010-04-20T16:45:00.002-04:00

Here is a great match. Very competetive with big hits and hard runs.

Great flow and great emotion from every member of both teams. Remember our mantra, "support scores tries".

"There are two sides of Rugby; Defense is contact part"

2010-04-20T13:46:00.008-04:00

Defense is my motivation

Everyone gets motivated in different ways. I need to think about game time situations over and over in my head to get motivated. I think of stiff-arms that break clavicles and pooching a ball on a solo tackle on the 1 meter to save a Try. I think of going into battle with the strongest, fastest, and most intense men I know. I get butterflies thinking about taking a scrum against the head and hearing the oppositions props squeel when we fold them over themselves All I want is to break the motivation of my opponent. I want my opponent to run away from me, to slow down when running at me, to fumble the ball when I get close, and to show pain whenever we scrum.

The ONLY way to inflict these feelings in your opponent is by getting at them early and often. When you hit some one hard once, they get angry. When you hit them twice, they try to avoid you. But when you are on them every time they see the ball they just want to get out of the game. Sterling Mortlock is a feared man because he splits people in half when they run at him. You dont deserve respect unless you DEMAND respect.

Music, movie quotes, and speeches are great for pep rallies but we dont want you to be pumped up now. We all NEED you to be motivated, deep seated, anger filled motivation to go on a campaign of wrath against Lehigh Valley. They dont know us, they have no idea who the fuck West Pot is but come Saturday they are gonna wish they never put their boots on. We will break every will of every able bodied man on that team. I will except nothing but pain and suffering.

Starts tonight,
panic

Some Great Super 14 Clips

2010-03-31T16:19:00.007-04:00

Panic shot through a YouTube clip of Super 14 highlights that demonstrated a lot of the work we did on Tuesday night in full speed. Check out the embedded clip below and then peep after the jump for some of Panic's commentary.

Pay particular attention to the first two highlights, quick ball and offloading in the tackle. The ball carrier breaks the first line of defense then offloads to a support player coming at pace. This is exactly what we are teaching at practice.

Except for Joe Roccocko's try and an intercepted pass, all of these tries were scored by the support player. It is the support players responsibility to be with their teammates when they make a run for it. With that in mind, the ball carrier cannot act like a 7's super star and make a dozen cuts, make a hard move, hit the hole then offload. Think, always moving north to south.

Scrum half did a great job with the quick ball, when the forwards blew over the ball he did the grab and go, no hesitation. If that ball is out, its gotta move away from the breakdown.

Key Points:

Benson Stanley Try - full team support, break the line then look to set something up with your support

Johnathan Poff Try - Perfect offload by the hooker, EXACTLY what we are teaching in practice

Jacques Fourie Try - No. 12 hit the gap and made two defenders commit to him, which opened it up for No. 13

Joe Rokocoko Try - When we use the word, "finisher" we mean some one like this guy
Patrick Phibbs Try - From a standstill the 8man hit a hole and then popped the ball to a supporter coming in hard (perfect)

Karl Lowe Try - Nanu, No. 12 does a double stutter and it kills the forward progression (no good). One rucker and quick ball can create an overload where you have 10 men against 5. Quick ball=tries

Saturday's a Rugby Day

2010-03-26T11:21:00.003-04:00

We have a match on Saturday 3/27 in DC against the Washington Irish. Kick-off will be around 2:45 (after their match against Norfolk) at Hains Point. Carpool will be wheels up from the Eastern Market Dunkin' Donuts at 1:15.

We will most likely be running three 30's, so there will be plenty of PT for wveryone who makes it out. It is going to be a beautiful day, so get some friends and family to head out and join us!

First Round is on the Coach!!

2010-03-25T21:23:00.001-04:00

Words of Wisdom for Muhammad Ali

2010-03-24T11:21:00.000-04:00

I hated every minute of training, but I said, "Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion." -Muhammad Ali

2010 Spring Thaw Fundraiser

2010-03-01T12:33:00.001-05:00

Please join West Potomac RFC this Saturday after our annual Spring Thaw Tournament as we kick off the 2010 season and raise money for Men Against Breast Cancer (MABC).

Where: Hamilton's Bar & Grill - 233 2nd Street NW, Washington, DC

When: Saturday, March 6 from 8:00 – close

What: $10 donation to MABC gets you $1 PBR cans, give-aways, and other specials throughout the evening

Who: West Potomac and our guests from Quantico RFC, Winchester RFC, and Washington RFC

Why: Just about every rugger we know has a mom, sister, daughter, girlfriend, or wife that has supported his exploits on the pitch (or forgiven his antics at the drink-up). Helping MABC is just a small way to say "thank you" to the women in our lives.

About MABC

Steve Peck and Marc Heyison co-founded Men Against Breast Cancer (MABC), the first national non-profit organization to provide targeted support services to educate and empower men to be effective caregivers when breast cancer strikes a female loved one; as well as, target and mobilize men to be active participants in the fight against breast cancer.

MABC recognizes breast cancer is a family issue that devastates the entire family. Its philosophy is to leverage the support of the whole family to help the patient, with special emphasis on the important role of the husband/partner in caring for the woman he loves. At the same time, MABC recognizes and supports that the ultimate decisions regarding treatment and care are those of the patient.

Thank you to our sponsors for this event:

Pabst Brewing Company
Hamilton's Bar & Grill

Sunday Night Rugby - Six Nations Drink Up - 2/28

2010-02-24T12:08:00.008-05:00

Who: 5 pm Italy v. Scotland & 6:45pm England v. Ireland

When: Sunday, February 28th

Where: Capitol Lounge 229 Penn. Ave. SE

It is simple ... come on out have a beer, watch some rugby, and eat some potato products. Bring WPRFC business cards and represent.

All the Best,

Jimmy Ryder
jryder47@gmail.com

WPRFC Awards Banquet Tonight

2010-02-20T15:34:00.004-05:00

GAME ON !

7:00 pm 1300 & 1302 Longworth House Office Building

South Capitol Street SW Entrance

Black Tie Optional

Call Jimmy at

828-381-5649 with any questions.

FINAL CALL- 2010 Banquet

2010-02-17T12:43:00.005-05:00

Gentlemen,

I wanted to send out a final notice to all that we have to send our head count and guest list in to our caterer and the Capitol Police by the end of today. Please contact myself, Bible, or Rob if you are still planning on going and have yet to let us know. See the list below to see if you have made contact. We are looking forward to a nice evening at the Capitol and in order to make your transportation needs as simple as possible I wanted to recommend the following PARKING strategies:

1.) Cab directly to the intersection of S.Capitol St.SW and Independence Ave.SE and walk down to the S.Capitol St.SW entrance to Longworth.

2.) Park near the after party locale ( Hamiltons ) and walk or cab over to Longoworth at S.Capitol St.SW and Ind. Ave.SE

3.) Metro over to Capiol South Metro and walk over to the S.Capitol St.SW entrance to Longworth.

4.) Park in the neighborhood near Tortilla Coast and Congressional liquors and walk over.

Cabs will be available on Independence Ave. after the event to get us over to Hamiltons or you can brave the cold and walk over.

SIDENOTE: We will have access to the Longworth balcony so feel free to bring cigars etc.

Any and all information regarding this years banquet can be found online at http://www.dcrugby.org/events/2010Banquet.htm

or you can email myself, Bible, or Rob. Map of location attached.

Thanks Again to All,

Jimmy Ryder

Current Attendees

Andrew Panek
Dave Gedeon
James Ryder
KJ
Griff
Jeff Roberts
Patrick McNearny
Matthew Sickbert
Scot Alexander
Stefan Grosman
Dave Rogge
Paul Gessner
Bill Kissney
Ed Smith
Thomas Sorrels
Ben Salisbury
Jason Hewgley
Peter Judge
Michael Lilly
Lance Huelsmann
Reuben Barris
Damund Williams
Kyle Koz
Robb Stout
Kimmer
Brian Lapato
Matty Johnston
Maggie Gessner
Jon Moss
Paul Hoover
Stephanie Johnson( Ken's Sister)
Erik Johnson
Don Alley
Phil Dixon
Tyler Fish
Sean Lovitt
Matt Cochran
Steve Dart
Andrew Payne

Practice Cancelled for Saturday 2/13

2010-02-12T15:00:00.003-05:00

As you have probably guessed, no amount of melting today is going to make the field usable for tomorrow so we are once again forced to cancel practice.

We are planning to get together on Capitol Hill Saturday evening to watch the USA Sevens tourney live from Vegas at 8:30. I will post details here as soon as the location is confirmed.

**UPDATED**

We are getting together at Capitol Lounge to watch sevens on Saturday. Coverage starts at 8:30 but I think some folks will be getting there a little earlier than that. Make sure to wear your team gear and bring some business cards for recruiting.

Sign Up Now 2010 Banquet

2010-02-11T00:46:00.003-05:00

Congressional Hearing Room + Balcony + 3 Hours of Booze = PayPal

We are half way there and have just 2 weeks left. Signup soon so we can lock down our head count. Much thanks to those who have already signed up. Visit the link in the details below for more information.

Saturday, February 20th

7:00pm - Longworth House Office Building RM 1300

After Party at Hamilton's

2010 Banquet Update 2/8 PM

2010-02-08T17:01:00.002-05:00

Today we reached 30 people for the banquet on Saturday, February 20th. Our goal is to turn 60 folks out. Thanks to those who have contacted myself, Bible, or Rob, we appreciate it. For those still waiting to take the plunge, get after it ! 80.00 per person, open bar, US Capitol, pay with Paypal or check, details below:

Saturday, February 20th

7:00pm - Longworth House Office Building RM 1300

After Party at Hamilton's

Silent Auction Items in Demand ...

2010-02-04T09:47:00.003-05:00

A quick reminder to all that we will be having a spirited silent auction at this year’s banquet and to do so we need kick ass items to bid on. Anything that you think someone else would want. The proceeds from our auction are crucial in order for us to throw down like this every year. Let me know what items you are donating so that I can make a placeholder for it.

Thanks

Jimmy Ryder at jryder47@gmail.com

Past Items have included:

Assorted Liquor Baskets
Airforce 2 Schwag
WPRFC Fan Appreciation Basket
Tickets to Local Sporting Events
Assorted Reach Arounds
Weekend Getaways ( wine country crap )
Rugby Gear
Slightly used sex toys
etc. etc. etc.

WPRFC is in Session: Team Banquet at the U.S. Capitol 2/20

2010-02-03T21:26:00.008-05:00

When: Saturday, February 20th from 7-10 pm with after party to follow
Where: The House Agriculture Hearing Room -- Longworth House Office Building (map | additional location details)
Dress: Formal, Black Tie Optional
After Party: Hamilton's Bar and Grill, 233 2nd St NW (formerly Sully's) 10:30 till they run out of PBR and Tater Tots.

Event Fliers: Banquet Invitation | After Party Invitation

Tickets/RSVP

Tickets for the event are $80/each and can be purchased in a couple ways:

Tickets via PayPal: Go to www.PayPal.com and make payment to Bible's email address: davegedeon@gmail.com

Tickets via old-timey methods: If you have not RSVP'ed or don't like Paypal and would like to attend, please contact Jimmy Ryder via email:jryder47@gmail.com

Dinner Menu

Crudites w/ Dressing & Tortilla Chips w/ Salsa
Grilled Beef Sirloin w/ Horseradish Sauce
Grilled Salmon w/ Cucumber Dill Sauce
Steamed Asparagus w/ Parley & Walnuts
Fresh Spinach w/ Goat Cheese
Assorted Deserts

We will have an open bar from 7-10.

Location Details

Longworth is Metro accessible via the Capitol South metro station. Street parking is available throughout the Hill neighborhoods surrounding the office building. All guests will enter through the South Capitol Street entrance of Longworth (this is the entrance between the Longworth and Rayburn office buildings). The Capitol Police will be aware of the event and all guests will simply need to go through the metal detectors to enter. Jimmy Ryder will be present to address any issues that may arise.

Taxi service after the event is available and Hamilton's is within walking distance for those looking to stretch their legs. Please plan ahead to join us for a night cap at Hamilton's after the event.

View Larger Map

Silent Auction
We are need of silent auction items. Please contact Jimmy Ryder jryder47@gmail.com asap to reserve a spot for your silen auction items. Lets get creative and come up with some sweet Silent Auction items. And no we can't auction off Tiny's pants......

Walker, we hardly knew ye

2010-02-03T12:40:00.003-05:00

Folks,

A member of our team, Andrew "Charlie" "Texas Ranger" Walker, is departing out midst to start a new journey. To celebrate his departure he is hosting a celebration of his life at February 5th. The evite link has more details. Try to make time Friday evening to stop by and give Walker an ole hoorah before he plunges into Marine Bootcamp.

Bible

Link once more: http://www.evite.com/pages/invite/viewInvite.jsp?inviteId=AASQBVNJPBJIRZRZMZRP&li=iq&src=email&trk=aei6

Other info:
February 5th, 7 to 10 pm at Ragtime Bar in Arlington

Ragtime
1345 N Court House Rd
Arlington, VA 22201 US
View Map

Practice this Saturday - 10:30 AM

2010-01-07T11:10:00.006-05:00

We are practicing Saturday at 10:30 AM at Gravelly. I know it's going to be cold, but I don't care. Show up, run around, play rugby, and then go to Rocklands to have BBQ and PBR. We are getting ready for MARFU. Who knows, it could be cold in April, Global Weirding can wreak havoc.

Gravelly

View Larger Map

Rocklands

View Larger Map

Hamilton's Third Birthday

2009-12-01T14:15:00.003-05:00

Hamilton's is rockin' its third anniversary party this Friday night (specials actually start at 11:00 AM). It should be a really swell time and a great chance to do some recruiting for the Spring Season. Details after the jump, but first download some West Pot business card templates and print 'em off (on any Avery 8-up business card paper) so that you can keep a stack in your wallet.

Here are the event details from Hamilton's Facebook page:

Three years ago we decided it would be a good idea to open a bar and in honor of that poor decision making we throw a bash every year. If you've been before you know these are not to be missed and if you haven't here is the deal...

The Specials:
$1 PBR's
$3 drafts and bottles (all of the them)
$3 Call drinks (not the cheap stuff and not the top shelf)

These run all day and night and on top of that we have all of our distributors come in to give away free booze and prizes.

We've also got our boy Sharkey coming thru to drop some classics so there will definitely be some rump shakin...

If those aren't enough reasons for you to get off your couch and get blackout drunk then you must be a communist, because what we are really celebrating here is the American dream but I digress...

West Pot + Crossfit

2009-11-25T20:58:00.003-05:00

Start following this website, CrossFit Football. Today's picture should look familiar. We will also be incorporating more of these workouts into training.

When it needs to happen...

2009-11-23T15:17:00.001-05:00

This came over from Steph Johnson-
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/6560971/Man-uses-remote-to-control-his-bionic-bottom.html

Final Game of 2009

2009-11-13T11:38:00.001-05:00

Gentlemen,

We have our final matrix match this coming Saturday at 1 pm vs Chambersburg. We have been lax the past couple of weeks, but we still need a win and a bonus point, so this weekend should not be taken lightly. Spread the word so we get a good turnout of fans. We are playing at our home pitch, Accokeek park (google maps link below). Be at the pitch by 11:45 to be sure you are kitted up by noon. We will set up a carpool from the Dunkin Donuts at 8th and Pennsylvania SE (Eastern Market Metro) - be there at 10:45 with wheels up at 11.

As per usual, let me know if you are in for the match and also if you plan on coming to the carpool.

Huzzah
Sunshine

Directions to the pitch

What really happened to Rich and I on Halloween

2009-11-12T17:32:00.001-05:00

These black outs are getting terrible.

I Need a New Kit Bag

2009-11-04T15:37:00.005-05:00

My kit bag is seven years old and has served me faithfully & well. There are a lot of memories in that bag; I've taken it to Europe to play in the Amsterdam 7's and too many road trips to count, but it's on its last legs. My bag has no strap, almost all the zippers are busted, and to say it smells like ass is an insult to stinking asses everywhere. So I need a new kit bag and since the last time we did a team run of kit bags was seven years ago, I suspect that other guys may need one too.

I'm volunteering to take the lead on getting new kit bags, but I'm soliciting input from the team. Here's what I'm looking at right now:

Since we have so much fresh gear from Canterbury, I thought we might keep heading in that same direction by getting a bag like this, but obviously we would have to get this customized with our crest and colors.

We could also go traditional and get the regular canvas roll kit bag.

I also like this bag 'cause it has a place for your wet boots and comes with a "free" ball.

We probably need about a dozen guys to commit to make it worth my time to mess around with this, so holla at your boy to indicate your interest and leave comments/suggestions. Once we've reached something resembling a consensus I'll post a follow up message with a drop dead date to place your order.

With You,

KJ

Old Boys Match - DETAILS

2009-11-04T14:45:00.004-05:00

Gents,

I received the brackets and logistical information today for Sunday's Old Boys Tournament. However, I have only heard for a handful of Old Boys - we need you all to show!

Details for our match are below (entire bracket is here)- subsequent matches that day are based on the outcome of that first match.

Alexandria Roosters Cup, Old Boys Tournament

Location: GW Middle School - Corner of Braddock Road and Mt. Vernon Street.

Map: http://www.acps.k12.va.us/maps/gwms.php

Match Duration: 40 Minute Matches (Two 20 minute halves)

Field 1, Kick Off 12:30: West Potomac vs. Roosters

After Party: O'Connell's, 112 King Street Alexandria (www.danieloconnells.com)

No alcohol at the field, please!

So ,after the Young Boys crush Pax River on Saturday, we will carry that momentum onto the Pitch Sunday against the French ex-pat side...and anyone else we face.

Call me if you have any questions

I'll see you all on the pitch Sunday - arrive early enough to get your boots on - looks like they're keeping an uncharacteristically tight timeline for matches.

Andy

Old Boys Match - Pay Attention

2009-11-02T13:55:00.004-05:00

Please see the below message from Andy Vonada:

The Poltroons, Western Suburbs, and the Roosters (a new club of French ex-pats) on Sunday, 8 NOV at either Gravelly Point or George Washington Middle School (Alexandria) and anticipated start time is 1:00 pm. This is the first step in a renewed effort to schedule additional matches for our Old Boys (other than our annual run against the Young Boys), and update the roster. Additionally, there are other touring and tournament opportunities we’re not currently taking advantage of. Therefore, I need all Old Boys to do the following:

- Update or add your contact information on the Old Boys Roster found on the club website. [editor's note: If you don't have access to the roster, leave a comment here with some way for me to get in touch with you and I'll get you set up. -KJ]

- Send me an email (alvonada [at] hotmail [dot] com) or call me (you can get the number via the roster) to confirm your ability to play on the 8th.

- Show up on the 8th! While I will gladly take on the French 15 by myself, I would like to share that opportunity with my mates. This is also a golden opportunity to re-establish our rightful position among the area’s Old Boys clubs.

I’ll see you all on the pitch and expect to hear from you soon.

Andy Vonada

Invictus Trailer-

2009-10-28T13:24:00.003-04:00

I am already getting excited about this movie- you should see my nipples.

Rugby in the New Yorker

2009-10-21T12:47:00.002-04:00

A brief article in the New Yorker about rugby's entry into the 2016 Olympics.

Mandatory Viewing

2009-10-11T12:47:00.003-04:00

Before practice on Tuesday I would encourage everyone to watch the following movie

Forever Strong, which is perhaps the greatest movie ever. I think in order of greatest movies it goes

1. Godfather
2. Rosemary's Baby
3. Forever Strong
4. Pulp Fiction

No question about it, Forever Strong is amazing.

2016 is a Rugby Year!

2009-10-09T11:50:00.003-04:00

Well, it looks like the US will get to defend it's back-to-back Gold Medals in the 1920 and 1924 Olympic games! That's right, Rugby Sevens was voted into the Olympics for the 2016 games in Rio with overwhelming support from the IOC. It looks like they are going to do a 4-day, 12-team tourney for both men and women.

They are also adding some fringe sport called "golf." I guess the easiest way to describe it is one-man curling without ice and metal field hockey sticks instead of brooms. Sounds a little too slow and obtuse for a global audience.

Check out the full USA Rugby press release after the jump. Pretty awesome for our sport and I was interested to see that the 2010 USA Sevens tourney is moving from San Diego to Vegas. Anyone else feel like watching international rugby in Vegas? Yeah, me too -- I am sure that is what Sweet Justice wants to do over the Valentine Day weekend (cue Rough Justice > yoke).

COPENHAGEN , Denmark - The global rugby family are celebrating the announcement that Rugby Sevens will be included at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro .

An overwhelming vote in favor of inclusion by the International Olympic Committee members at the 121st Session in Copenhagen means that the world’s top men’s and women’s rugby players will have the opportunity to compete for an Olympic Gold medal, the pinnacle of sporting achievement.

Bernard Lapasset, President of the International Rugby Board, said: “This is a historic moment for our sport and for the global Rugby community, who were united in support of our campaign.

“We are excited and honored to be joining the Olympic Games and I would like to thank the IOC members for believing in our Olympic vision and our values and recognizing that Rugby Sevens is a perfect fit for the Olympic Games,” Lapasset added.

“We are now looking forward to working in partnership with the IOC to develop and implement a Rugby Sevens tournament in Rio that will reach out to new audiences and inspire a new generation of sports fans around the world.”

The Olympic Games will be the pinnacle of the sport for rugby athletes, with the best men’s and women’s players in the world extremely excited to be able to showcase their talent on the world’s greatest sporting stage.

“Inclusion will provide a massive boost to the development of the game not only in the U.S. , but worldwide,” USA Rugby’s CEO Nigel Melville said. "Rugby has grown steadily in popularity across North America in recent years, but Olympic inclusion could attract thousands of new participants and crossover athletes.”

Presently there are 116 nations playing the Game, but the Olympic family currently stands at 205 nations, and through the platform of the Games, rugby could reach out to more nations and more men, women, boys and girls worldwide.

“The Olympics are deeply engrained in our sports psyche and the explosive, exciting, unpredictable and highly competitive nature of Rugby Sevens will be a huge draw for a whole new set of fans,” Women’s Sevens Team member Jen Sinkler said. “For the women’s game in particular, we could see the popularity grow in a similar fashion as women’s soccer did over a decade ago.”

"I don't think people realize yet how big this could be for rugby," said IRB Chief Executive, Mike Miller. "The Olympic Games is the biggest stage in the world for sport. It would be massive for the game."

The sport of rugby was actually included in four previous Olympic Games in 1900, 1908, 1920 and 1924. The Americans are technically the two-time defending Olympic gold medal champions, following wins against France in both 1920 and 1924. The last Olympic rugby match was played at Colombes stadium in Paris and the USA took the gold with a 17-3 victory before 30,000 fans.

"From an early age, Americans believe that the greatest success an athlete can achieve is becoming an Olympian and competing in the Olympics," Men's Sevens Coach Al Caravelli said. "With this inclusion, I believe we will see more athletes taking up rugby who previously played other American sports. The United States has a massive quantity of these untapped athletes and one of our goals will be to convert these athletes into rugby players."

Both the Men’s and Women’s U.S. National Sevens Teams are currently preparing for their upcoming international season, with their first international tournament held in Dubai , UAE. Currently, the U.S. Men's Sevens Team is ranked 11th in the world, while the U.S. Women’s side is third.

America is also featured as one of the eight IRB Sevens World Series stops and is the largest international rugby event held in the U.S. Bringing in a crowd of over 35,000 during the two days of men's and women's sevens competition in 2009, this upcoming year's event, which is set for Las Vegas on Presidents’ Day weekend, is looking to be bigger and better than ever.

For more information on the U.S. Sevens Team or to set up interviews, please contact Sara John at sjohn@usarugby.org or visit www.usarugby.org.

For more information on the USA Sevens, please visit www.usasevens.com.

SATURDAY IS A RUGBY DAY!!!!!!!!

2009-10-07T13:53:00.002-04:00

We are on the road Saturday at 1 PM against Quantico. The marines are always a tough squad who is, at the very least, strong, in shape and agressive. If we play our game plan though, we will win the day. Plan to be at the pitch, kitted up by 12 noon to allow for a proper warmup.

We are going to be playing on the Marine Base in Quantico (Google maps directions below). 95 traffic always sucks, so plan a little extra time to make sure you are there in time.

We will be doing our normal carpool from 8th and Pennsylvania SE (Eastern Market Metro). The carpool will meet at 10:15 am at dunkin donuts, with wheels up at 10:45.

Ryan will probably botch his ride situation....just to let you know.

Ken Johnson...is 37.

2009-10-05T14:29:00.003-04:00

Gentlemen, when you get the chance, please make an effort to reach out to KJ and wish him a happy birthday. Also remember to thank KJ for his contributions to the club on and off the pitch.

Caption/Comment Contest!

2009-09-25T19:58:00.001-04:00

Rugby Speech

2009-09-25T14:40:00.002-04:00

Post Match Festivities- 9-26-09

2009-09-23T19:59:00.006-04:00

This Saturday's match versus Winchester will be capped off with a lovely gathering of peers at Panek's home. Please remember dogs, children, the elderly, infirm, and lonely are all welcome to join at Panek's house. PBR and Rockland's will be on hand so plan to come out and have some fun.

Here is the map of the location of Panek's Home. Plan on attending after our match.

View Larger Map

Nelson Mandela/RSA Rugby Biopic

2009-09-18T10:59:00.004-04:00

Could there finally be a rugby-based movie worth watching? Clint Eastwood is directing 'Invictus' (formerly 'The Human Factor') — featuring Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon — that tells the story of Nelson Mandela, Francois Pienaar, and South Africa's underdog run at the 1995 RWC.

Here's the plot synopsis from the studio:

The film tells the inspiring true story of how Nelson Mandela joined forces with the captain of South Africa's rugby team to help unite their country. Newly elected President Mandela knows his nation remains racially and economically divided in the wake of apartheid. Believing he can bring his people together through the universal language of sport, Mandela rallies South Africa's underdog rugby team as they make an unlikely run to the 1995 World Cup Championship match.

I am not a huge biopic fan (especially when the characters are still alive) but the heady brew of rugby, Eastwood, Freeman, and Damon all the sudden put this movie on my must-see list for this fall/winter. The movie is set for a December 11 release and I am sure that we will organize a team event to check it out.

In the meantime, check out some pictures from the shoot and a delightfully cheesy concept poster that seems to be based on the artwork from such Eastwood classics as 'Every Which Way But Loose' and/or 'Where Eagles Dare':

Congrats Bible, Quinn is your starter.

2009-09-10T11:57:00.002-04:00

Congrats on the exchanging of the vows, your beloved Browns have given you...Brady Quinn.

Texas, well represented.

2009-09-03T10:38:00.006-04:00

For those of us that grew up/went to school in shitty little towns, such as Corpus Christi/Nacogdoches, Texas; like I did. You went to one place for all things necessary in life, you know: food, drink, clothing, auto service, family portraits, a meal from MacDonalds, and of course Tax Preparation. That place was Wal-Mart, and the website below has become an online registry of the characters that frequent this grand establishment.

Enjoy.
*UPDATE* The ugly shorter version of me is famous.

Bible...watch out for the Bears.

2009-08-28T14:51:00.001-04:00

Caption Contest!

2009-08-24T19:06:00.002-04:00

The winner gets A SINGLE $1 PBR and a Tater Tot.

IOC recommends rugby for the Olympics

2009-08-13T11:40:00.001-04:00

Check it out, the IOC recommends rugby for the Olympics!!! Huzzah!!!

Random Rookie Picture

2009-07-19T15:49:00.004-04:00

I got an e-mail last night from a ~~guy~~ rookie named Kevin who didn't seem to have quite enough vowels in his last name and he asked me to post this picture.

He also said that the young lady who accompanied him to yesterday's tournament took a bunch of pix with Jimmy's camera and he would like to get those pix if at all possible.

Fall Schedule

2009-07-15T15:21:00.002-04:00

Here is the fall schedule for all of those interested in playing rugby in the fall.

Please note our only bye week is 9/12 which is before our first game so that will be a practice. Also, there are no playoffs this year so we have to be ready to win every game.

8/22/2009 - Friendly vs. Wash Irish
8/29/2009 - Saturday Practice
9/5/2009 - Saturday Practice
9/12/2009 - Saturday Practice
9/19/2009 - At North Bay
9/26/2009 - Winchester
10/3/2009 - Rappahannock
10/10/2009 - at Quantico
10/17/2009 - Wash Renegades
10/24/2009 - at Happy Valley (Road Trip)
10/31/2009 - at Warrenton
11/7/2009 - Pax River
11/14/2009 - Chambersburg

A note from Murray-

2009-07-14T10:27:00.001-04:00

Another fine example of why we play Rugby, courtesy of long time player, part time coach, RSAS Member and Attorney at Law; Murray Krueger.

For those of you that didn't see the last game in the Lion's test series, it was a major punch-fest . . .The following extract from a blog by Martyn Williams, the Wales and Lions flanker.

Saturday's game was one of the toughest I have ever been involved in. We had altitude to contend with, it was a wide open game and it was quite niggly.

To be fair, I was involved in a lot of that because it's part of your job as an open-side flanker.

I thought my opposite number, Heinrich Brussow, was outstanding and he's been a real find for the Springboks in this series.

We had quite a tussle; there was one moment in the second half when he picked me up and threw me on the floor. The Boks had been awarded a penalty and I was lying on the floor with the ball between my legs. Brussow didn't like that.

Then Pierre Spies got hold of me. He's absolutely huge and if I'd fought back, there would have only been one winner!

It was a feisty end to a full-on Test series, which is what everyone wants to see.

After the game we had a really good function with the South African boys, which was the first time we've been able to get together with them.

After the first two Tests it was back to the hotel by six or seven o'clock. This time we had a formal dinner followed by a few beers with the South Africa team.

John Smit spoke brilliantly at the dinner, saying the series could have gone either way. What a class act.

John, Victor Matfield and Bryan Habana each made a point of coming round and talking to all of our lads. They are absolute gentlemen.

People said there was needle between the teams but I think that was overplayed. We were both desperate to win and there were no hard feelings at the end of the series.

You could say we were unlucky to lose the series - and there would be some truth in that - but credit to the Boks, because they came up with the goods at the crucial times. They are world champions for a reason.

This is my third Lions tour and it has been the most memorable of them all by far."

Rugby League Saturday July 11 on the Mall

2009-07-08T18:21:00.006-04:00

This Saturday at 1 pm at 15th and Independence in Washington, DC Dain and Panek will be playing Rugby League. Come out in support our fellow West Potomacians. After the match, Hamilton's Bar will be serving Pabst Blue Ribbon and may or may not have the kit order ready to be distributed.

If you have any questions, e-mail one of those dashing individuals in the pictures above.

4th of July Parade: FAIL

2009-07-02T20:20:00.001-04:00

After initial conversations about West Pot entering the Capitol Hill
4th of July parade yielded much enthusiasm and grandiose plans of
securing a boat for a float, it is with great sadness that I admit to
an epic fail in securing a place in said parade. I'll post a link here
to the parade route later and hopefully next year I won't be
distracted from the important things in my life by a pregnancy and
impending child birth.

That Was a Joke,

Rugby on ESPN

2009-07-01T10:54:00.003-04:00

ESPN is going to be airing the USA/Canada RWC Qualifying match LIVE this Saturday at 4:00 pm. This is the first time that ESPN has aired live rugby on it's flagship station rather than giving us horribly edited rebroadcasts on The Ocho — so set your DVRs, tell you friends and family, and let's see if we can't show the network(s) that there is a demand for more rugby coverage. I mean, if we don't watch this who will!?

You can also pass along this article that ran in USA Today about The Eagles and the unique challenges facing our amateur players versus the monied programs from the top-tier nations. There is a good chance that rugby can piggyback on the recent exposure of the US Soccer program and help drum up interest in some of the "fringe" team sports being played at the highest levels in this country.

Who is this man...of steel?

2009-06-30T15:31:00.004-04:00

And now for my monthly post of "WHO IS THIS MAN?"

Please leave your guesses, along with a favorite quote or recent memory of them in the comments section, and remember, the person is a current member of the team; the winner will get a piece of WPRFC Memorobilia(used) or a free PBR from yours truly on Dollar PBR night at Hamilton's.

7s Recap and Practice Tonight

2009-06-30T11:12:00.001-04:00

Please e-mail Bible if you are able to attend practice this evening at Gravelley Point from 6:30 pm to Dark. -KJ

Recap of PAC 7s

First Match:
West Potomac vs. Exiles II – Exiles II forfeited so we played Exiles I in a shortened match. The outcome of 5-5 was not bad given Exiles I was playing in premier and the match was quite shortened. Strong defense prevented the strong exiles side from gaining any serious momentum. Their only try came due to some faulty try line reading.

Second Match
West Potomac vs. PAX – Pax River was coming off a big win versus Irish II and were quickly disappointed as West Pot opened an early lead that eventually became a large lead. The final was 31-0.

Third Match
West Potomac vs. UMBC – The closest match of the day came against the college youths of UMBC. The outcome of 17-12 was in doubt until Tiny came through and dominated a few 19 year olds.

Semifinals
West Potomac vs. Georgetown Prep Alum – Tiny scored off of the opening kick-off and West Pot didn't look back. 4 or 5 tries to 1 gave West Pot an easy victory. Again the defensive effort was very strong as the flat line contained any running attack. Also not really sure why anyone would try and maul against Tiny in 7s, but hey they went to Georgetown Prep after all.

Finals
West Potomac vs. the Horde – The Horde is a team from North Carolina. The Horde had a long drive home after getting smacked in the finals. The play of the match featured the Horde's tall, bearded captain avoiding a tackle and starting a breakaway. Inexplicably he stopped dead still and our Beard came from behind and crushed the clueless captain. West Pot's Beard 1, Horde's Beard 0.

Team:
Das Beard
Matt Reid
Steve the Bear
Jeff "Tiny" Roberts – aka Man of the Tournament
Jon
Stefan
Mike Kayembe
Calvin the Intern
Bible
Sean Giggity Lovitt
Sunshine
Vermont Jimmy

Evening Activity Invite - Beer and Breasts

2009-06-25T09:59:00.001-04:00

West Pot has been invited to drink some beers and raise money for Breast Cancer Fighting. Please see below from the Irish

-----

Details:

Tonight we are raising money to fight breast cancer. If you aren't going to 7s Practice/League we are starting at 6:30pm. Come by and have a happy hour drink and maybe win a gift card at Pool or Pong. If you are going to practice we'll expect to see you between 8 and 9pm when you're done. $3 drink specials and all proceeds go to support Emily Coccia's Susan G Komen 3-Day Walk.

Many of you who know how much effort Emily put in for Casino Night are asking how you can donate directly to Emily's walk. If you would like to do that, the link is: www.the3day.org/goto/emily.coccia

Summary:
What: 9-Ball tournament
Where: Motley Bar - 1318 9th St NW - Upstairs
When: 6:30pm, Thursday, June 25th.
Why: Support Breast Cancer research at the same time

British Lions South Africa Tour 2009: First Test

2009-06-23T11:25:00.005-04:00

Setanta has started airing the rebroadcast of the first Lions/RSA test match from the 2009 tour and it is definitely worth checking out. Without spoiling anything, the match comes down to the wire and is an exciting spectacle, but more than that we see a lot of what we have been practicing put into action.

South Africa makes the most of the ELV changes by dominating the lineouts and setting up an absolutely devestating maul. You can easily see how patience and coordination makes this move almost unstopable now that you can no longer collapse the maul. Just about every time they use it they get a) 20+ meters, b) a Lions' penalty, and/or c) a try.

On the other side of the ball, the Lions' centers create a ton of headaches for the defense with hard running into contact and great offload passing. There is nothing fancy about #12 taking the ball at pace and running through a tackle or two before dishing to a guy sprinting up on his hip. In a lot of cases, #13 takes the ball back inside looking to hook up with a forward rather than forcing something outside.

The kicking game from both teams is also worth noting, especially how the ball is contested in the air and the back three coordinate counters. All-in-all, one of the more instructive matches that I have seen in relation to the game plan we have been trying to execute.

I will try to find some good clips from the match and update the blog as well as figuring out how to get this on DVD so that people can check it out.

In the meantime, here is a little Brian O'Driscoll move from his club play that you can try out tonight at 7's practice...

7s and Vodka

2009-06-22T21:14:00.005-04:00

There is a tournament this weekend called PAC 7s which we have entered. Please let Bible know if you would like to play in it.

West Potomac RFC is now publicly discouraging the use of
Firefly Vodka in public.

Seven's

2009-06-16T21:38:00.001-04:00

Starting getting out to Sevens. We're practicing at Gravelley Point from around 6:30 to around 8:30.

Make it happen.

2009 WPRFC PIG ROAST.

2009-06-15T23:19:00.003-04:00

Pig Tasting Saturday, June 20, 2009

Pig Roast. Please bring your favorite side dish, salad or dessert. Roast pig and beer will be provided. Bring a bathing suit for swimming. There will be some small children so most of the tight forwards should remain totally covered. Volleyball and Bocci also provided.
*UPDATE* The Dread Pirate Gessner, and my noble Beer Pong teamate, and Esteemed Dues Collector, has informed me that those not current on dues, will have to forgo pig. Pay up. Or KJ, Panek, Ben and I will have a few words for you, and Jeff(Tiny 2) will take his shirt off. Nobody wants that.

Here are the directions to 51 Slama Road, Edgewater, Maryland 21037

Beltway to Rt 50 East to exit 22, Aris T. Allen Blvd. (Rt 665) Follow the signs to Route 2 South, and turn right onto Rt. 2. Get into the left lane, go about 2 miles and cross the South River Bridge. Take an immediate left onto South River Road. Turn left at the stop sign, go ½ block, and turn right onto Leeland Road. Go 1 block and turn left. Go one more block and turn left again at the Gessner’s sign onto Slama Road. Turn right onto the 4th driveway at the Russell sign..Park on grass.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone! Please RSVP, so that we can plan refreshments. . Phone #:301-779-4928(home) and email at gessners@verizon.net Day of party, in Edgewater or, if no answer, call Paul’s cell at 30l-343-0107. .

Hope to see you soon, Paul and Beefa

"Gunshots!?!? Nah, Someone's German Car just backfired!"

2009-06-12T10:53:00.003-04:00

Ive done the Green Line bit...

Just moved to a new hood
and it's straight up gangsta
Let me show you around...
my town

People all around
better know the deal
that the people in this town
are ghetto for real

So when people tell me
Remy, where you calling from?
I say a straight up thug town
called Arlington

It's a real tough town
packing heat and boat shoes
my crib's in a rough spot
right next to the Whole Foods

I'm ducking gunfire daily
check to see if one got me
but that's just life in the hood
when I go get my puffed kashi

But we never do drugs
no, cuz that's not me
the only thing high up in here
are my condo fees

Welcome to Arlington
the town that never fizzles
Ballston, Rosslyn, Courthouse
the Clizzledizzle

So many places to choose
you're gonna like to pick
I'm in Courthouse so much that
they call me Michael Vick

And Rosslyn girls got money
they all can pay the bills
but that's all I'll film in Rosslyn
cuz I hate walking up these hills

and we kinda got a mall
yeah you know you can't stop us
got everything but nothing good, man
it's kinda like tapas

Just try to mess with us
I'll shoot you right in the foot punk
Just don't come on Tuesday nights
that's when I meet with my book club

Okay, I don't really read
when I buy books it's kinda causal
"Ah, you read Salinger?"
Nah, my kitchen table wobbles

Ducking down instictively
in gunshots we're mired
Wait nevermind, somebody's
German luxury car just backfired

Think you're leaving alive
yeah you do but I don't buy it
I'll gonna eliminate you
like I did gluten from my diet

Come and see me in an alley
Run'll be what you're wishing
Bustin out my fightin moves
like the fetal position

But first I need some cover
y'all gotta help me this way
Cover? You need backup?
Nah punk, it's for my duvet!

Straight thug hood
getting mugged on the go go
but muggings here is when
a stranger comes and gives you coco

Got a lot of bad girls
Got a lot of tough dudes
Our school of hard knocks
was written up in US News

We got dudes in brown flip flops
and dudes in brown flip flops
holy crap, why are all these dudes
wearing brown flip flops??

Welcome to A-town...

5pm hit the gym
even if I'm feelin crappy
But first I walk my tiny dog
with a little plastic baggy

Stretch in front of folks around me
so they know that I'm invested
and press the button for the lobby
even if somebody pressed it

I go jogging
At a reasonable pace
and when I get to intersections man
I jog in place

Up in Gold's Gym
gonna give it my all, son
So many dudes here
they should call this Ballston

Rollin one deep
so everybody can see us
Cruising down Wilson
all up in my Prius

Get out the car
check my shoe and sock a minute
Stand right back up
I got seven parking tickets

In DC from the get go
head to the metro
You heading to Whitlow's?
Hmm, maybe, I guess so...

Ride's never boring I say it's never better than
Riding on an orange line
train to Vienna

You better step back punk
that's your final warning?
You gonna punch me?
Nah, son, the doors are closing!

What's with this delay?
I can't wait for this
Why'd they pick today
to do this track maintenance?

Now we're stuck in the city
how we getting back son?
We could take the green line...
Ehh...

So we're taking a taxi
Back to our gangsta world
Where the sidewalks brick
and the streets are curbed

So if you think you got the cred
and you think your toughness got me
come and see me in my town
and we'll grab a cup of coffee

At the Starbucks, or the Starbucks...

7s Practice and 1st Tournament of the Year

2009-06-04T14:06:00.001-04:00

Sirs,

West Potomac sincerely apologizes for the bombardment of e-mails in the past few minutes.

For those interested there will be 7s practice tonight at Gravelley Park from 6:30 to Dark. If you have a rugby ball please bring it along.

On Saturday, June 13th West Potomac will be entering the Social Division of Washington’s Pick 7s tournament. We won the Cup or Plate or something last year at this tournament so plan on making it out to defend whatever it is we won. Scott Alexandar, mscottalexander (at) gmail (dot) com, will be organizing for West Pot. The cost will be about $20 per player, less if more people show up.

Bible

West Potomac Hunt Update

2009-06-04T13:59:00.003-04:00

Below is the Update for the HUNT

WHERE: The 5th Annual West Potomac Scavenger Hunt will take place this Saturday June 6. We will begin at 1pm at Chef Geoff’s at Metro Center 1301 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20004 (Hint, get a head start by enjoying a Super Mug)

The Hunt will conclude at Hamilton’s at 6pm so plan your transportation accordingly. Driving is strictly prohibited during the Hunt and public transportation is strongly encouraged.

WHO: This is an important chance to include your friends in a fun WestPot event. Everyone who has joins us has had a great time (actual fun may vary). Assemble teams of up to six members with no more than 3 WestPot players on any team. (Hint: Smaller teams are better). If you bring 10 unaffiliated friends, you get half-off your fall dues. If you need to be put with a team, email me at bensalisbury (at) hotmail (dot) com or show up early.

WHAT TO BRING: Each team will need a digital camera with a fully charged battery.

The hunt is carefully crafted so that it can be enjoyed by the athletic and the lazy alike. It is all about being creative and having fun. Dress comfortably. It goes without saying, rookies are expected to wear their silly hats. (Hint: You can expect some sort of bonus for teams appropriately attired in Pabst schwag, WestPot gear, Rocklands clothes, and or blue and pink MABC socks).

WHY: Proceeds from the $10 per player donation will be split between Men Against Breast Cancer and West Potomac.

Prizes include 4 premier tickets to a Nationals game of your choice (another good reason to keep teams small) among other fabulous prizes.

We are still looking for more prize donations (Weekend at your beach house, 21 year old scotch, backrub coupon) email bensalisbury (at) hotmail (dot) com. Your team will get one point for each approved prize donation (potentially more).

Chef Geoff’s

Hamilton’s DC
233 2nd St NW, Washington, DC 20001

First annual Furies Beer Run Relay at Hamilton's Bar & Grill (June 27 at 2pm)

2009-06-04T12:47:00.002-04:00

We have an invitation to the Furies Beer Run Relay. Even though there is too much physical activity and too many rules, there is beer!
-Grant

Plenty of rugby players are fast on their feet. And even more can quickly down a beer. But on Saturday, June 27, the Washington Furies will host the first annual Furies Beer Run Relay at Hamilton's Bar & Grill, giving area rugby teams, veteran hashers and their friends the opportunity to see who is best at both.

Each relay team is composed of five runners doing four laps. The first runner will chug a beer, run a lap around the block and return to the transition zone, where they will slap their teammate's hand to "hand off" to the next runner. When the fifth runner finishes, the first runner is next in line.

Teams must drink/run the relay in order, and each runner must drink four beers and run four laps (about 1.3 miles total). The first team to complete the four laps of the relay in each division wins. Cheaters will be roundly mocked at the after-party and may be assigned embarrassing or unpleasant tasks.

Race volunteers will be stationed to help runners navigate and answer race-day questions, but teams themselves are responsible for getting their teammates into the transition zone for the next lap. This could be complicated because drinking between laps is encouraged and will win style points with the organizers.

Teams compete in one of three divisions: Men's, Women and Co-Ed. Individuals may register and will be assigned to teams according to their estimated mile time and division preference. If you have just two or three friends who want to compete, but not enough for a full team, that's fine -- list each other's names during registration to be assigned to the same team. We'll round out your team with other runners.

Participants need to be at metro-accessible Hamilton's by 2 p.m. to get their numbers and listen to pre-race announcements. The race will begin promptly at 2:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded to the winner of each division and for Best Team Spirit, which can be displayed in the form of costumes, team names or songs/chants. All runners get a commemorative t-shirt, even if they finish dead last. Drink specials will be available to those who stay at Hamilton's after the race.

Team registration is $100 ($20/person) and includes five t-shirts and 20 beers. Individual registration is $25 and includes one t-shirt and four beers. All funds raised from this event will benefit the Washington Furies Women's Rugby Football Club, who invite you to drink, run and be merry.

Questions? Concerns? E-mail race coordinator Margaret McElligott at gotmce (at) yahoo (dot) com.

Post Removed for Content

2009-06-02T11:42:00.002-04:00

Post Removed for Content

RUGBY SUPER LEAGUE FINAL LIVE!!!!

2009-05-30T20:19:00.003-04:00

I'm sure everyone who cares about this got the same spam that I did from USA Rugby, but here it is anyway.

*WATCH LIVE*

LIVE ON ESPN CLASSIC at 7 PM (MST) on SATURDAY
TUNE IN TO CATCH THE RUGBY SUPER LEAGUE FINAL
featuring San Francisco Golden Gate RFC vs. Life University

Ahead of the Curve: Budweiser Chelada

2009-05-19T17:05:00.004-04:00

Looks like ABM and I were once again trend setters, this time with the Cheladas. The folks over at Onion AV Club showed up late to the party with this taste test.

I don't really mind the stuff but I guess that I am in the minority (or the growing Latino soon-to-be-majority). All I know is that as soon as I can find a steady supply in bulk, Chelada going to replace the Colt 45's as punishment for losing bets with guys on the team. Either that or we have a Beer Pong From Hell tourney at Hamilton's.

Read some of the other tasters' reactions after the jump.

“It looks like beer mixed with menstrual blood.”
“It doesn’t taste as bad as it looks.” “No, it’s awful.”
“That is almost incomprehensibly bad. It’s like thin tomato soup that’s gone so rotten that it’s fermented into a vague approximation of alcohol. I can’t even taste the clams, just rotten, foamy tomatoes.”
“It’s like I drank a shrimp bucket at Red Lobster.”
“Oh, that’s fucking gross.”
“It’s like drinking tomato soup. And I would drink tomato soup if it got me drunk.”
“Can I get a grilled cheese with this?”
“It smells so much like rotten vegetables.”
“It has visible, chunky tomato particles in it!” “Beer should not be chunky!”
“I’m burping pure vile.”
“Cheap beer blendered with cheap salsa. Where are the cheap chips?”
“The tasting order goes tomato, then clam, then beer. It’s just that clam juice is really wretchedly awful stuff.”
“Ever taste MSG plain? It’s like a momentary heightening of your sense of taste, and for a second, your whole mouth tastes bitter and putrid. Reminds me a lot of this blamato thing.”

Music Vest

2009-05-18T20:23:00.001-04:00

The Pirates of the Potomac Set Sail on July 4

2009-05-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

Much talk at Hamilton's last night about entering a float in Capitol
Hill 4th of July parade. Skip came up with the idea of getting a boat
on a trailer for our float and seems to think that MJ can hook this
up. Naturally, we will be dressed as pirates riding on the boat. It
could be a recruiting and publicity coup or disaster.

Saturday's a (Big-Time) Rugby Day

2009-05-14T15:30:00.001-04:00

Gentlemen,

We have our last match of the Spring this Saturday as we roll up to Aberdeen to defend our title at the North Bay Cup. For those of you who played in this tournament last year, I don't need to tell you the amount of pride that we have on the line after playing ironman rugby -- through the losers bracket -- to cap off one of the best days of rugby enjoyed by this club. For those who were not there, I encourage you to ask your mates what it was all about and understand that this is more than just a toss away tourney for a lot of us.

As said in practice on Tuesday, we are at the point in the season where I doubt we are going to learn too much more but what we need to focus on is our team unity and collective will. That is what will win the day and has defined our success (and failures) to this point more than skill or strategy. That means everyone warms up together, drills together, heads to the bar together, meets up at the car pool together, etc., etc. There has been too much individualism and it's an unwanted distraction that negates our collective strength as a team.

If you needed any more reason to get up for practice tonight and the match on Saturday, this is the last 15's match that we will be playing with Pete the Rock and Virgil for the foreseeable future. These guys are two of the longest tenured active players on the club and have given West Pot a good bit of its personality both on and off the pitch. Let's see them off right and even if you can't make it on Saturday to ensure a repeat victory, hit up practice and Hamilton's tonight.

Details for this weekend are below. If you are not at practice tonight but intend to play this weekend, I have to hear back from you ASAP so that we have an handle on personnel.

Your pal,
Sideshow

+ + + +

Car Pool:
Meet @ 8:00; Wheels up @ 8:30 — Dunkin' Donuts @ 8th & Penn. SE (Eastern Market Metro)

Tournament:
First match is at 11:00; kitted up and ready to go at 10:00

Location — DeMarco Memorial Park:
979 Beards Hill Rd Aberdeen, MD 21001
That address is a little misleading -- the pitch is behind the Home Depot in that shopping center. Go around the right of the Home Depot and when you get to the back you will see a gravel access road that leads to the field parking lot.

Puppet King

2009-05-11T20:11:00.002-04:00

Keeping with the Cleveland theme on the blog, I present Puppet LeBron James

Come on Down to Cleveland-town Everyone!

2009-05-11T08:38:00.003-04:00

As promised, here are a couple great Cleveland tourism videos for our favorite son of Ohio. OSU Dart seemed to find these funny, but Mr. Gedeon did not see the apparent humor when I was trying to explain them. If you have ever visited Cleveland, these will be hilarious. If you have not, they will be hilarious and probably do a good job of making sure you never do.

Check out the first one here and the second after the jump. I am not sure what is considered NSFW these days, but be warned that the first one has a quick EffBomb:

"At least we're not Detroit."

Red House Furniture

2009-05-08T11:21:00.004-04:00

I thought I would be able to cite the Vern Fonk commercials as "The Best Local Advertisements Ever" until the End of Days, but -- while they are still top shelf -- the torch has been passed.

Finally, Micah and ABM can go shopping for a dinette set and sofa-sized artwork...Together.

(NOTE: there is some question about how welcome "expanics" are at Red House -- Ryan and Miguel should probably call first)

Awesome

2009-05-07T11:39:00.001-04:00

If you have ever been to a MD, Skins or Caps game you are familiar with the "Rock and Roll Vol. 2" tradition, even Ovi likes it.

New West Potomac Scrum Half

2009-05-05T22:30:00.003-04:00

At practice tonight West Pot unveiled its new starting number 9. Please welcome him when you come out for practice on Thursday

Enjoy

June 6 - Save The Date!!!

2009-05-05T10:46:00.002-04:00

Save The Date:

The 5th Annual West Potomac Scavenger Hunt will take place on the afternoon Saturday June 6. Tentative start time is 1pm. Details to Follow.

This is a great chance to include your friends in a fun WestPot event. Begin assembling your teams now. Teams can have up to six members with no more than 3 WestPot players on any team. (Hint: Smaller teams are better). The $10 per member donation will benefit the WestPot practice lights fund and Men Against Breast Cancer. The fabulous prizes are their own reward.

If you have a prize to donate (sports tickets, weekend at your beach house, 21 year old scotch, backrub coupon) or a hunt item suggestion, email: bensalisbury [at] hotmail [dot] com

Old Boy / Young Boy Update

2009-05-04T16:22:00.006-04:00

Once again the Old Boys went into Young Boy / Old Boy week expecting a win and once again they were dominated. No point in going over all of the gory details but one great highlight was Michael blazing past Virgil "The Older" for a try. The Young Ones put down an additional six tries, but it would take too long to detail each one. Unfortunately for the Old Boys speed, team work, defense, and the youth of the Young Boys were just too overwhelming for the West Pot Old Boys.

The sad news on the day is one of our rookies, James "Jimmy" Ryder suffered a fractured vertebrae after tackling Jackie "The Original Tiny" Kelly. Jimmy is currently residing in room C6311 of the ICU at Georgetown Hospital and is recovering from surgery which repaired the fractured vertebrae. Typical of Jimmy, his spirits are high and he is hitting on anything that moves in the ICU. Jimmy is now looking at the road to recovery, but thankfully it looks like that will be a road to complete recovery.

Visits are welcome and the team is already looking to help the Ryder family anyway possible during their stay in DC while Jimmy recovers. Please stop by the hospital if you can to say hi to Jimmy and his folks.

Of Course I Was Right, I'm an Old Boy

2009-05-01T12:17:00.003-04:00

As predicted, the young boys couldn't muster a full side at practice last night. It was truly a pathetic showing, the Young Boys were unable to even produce a front row. And the excuse generator is already in high gear with Ryan claiming to have "hurt" his ankle while he was "training" Thursday evening.

While discussing this sorry showing over a cold one; Grant, Marvin, and I came to the conclusion that the Young Boys just don't take us seriously.

Stay tuned for more smack talk as the afternoon continues and I decide to stop working.

Cowardly Young Boys Have Weak Numbers at Practice

2009-04-30T15:47:00.003-04:00

I predict that the Young Boys won't be able to field a full side at practice tonight.

After being abandoned to their fate in New York City by the feckless Dave Gedeon, the Young Boys have seen their numbers at practice dwindle each of the following weeks. In their usual style, the Young Boys have been full of excuses. There was something about Ben's pinky finger and the Beard's thumb.

Then Reuben "The Cuban Sandwich" Barris dropped off the face of the Earth and there was some cock & bull story about some other Baby Boy not having health insurance and where has Church been? Church must always be at church 'cause he sure hasn't been playing much rugby lately.

The Young Boys disrespect their coach with their continued refusal to train and the game of rugby with their shameful shenanigans both on and off the field.

Cheers,

KJ

OB / YB game this Saturday 1PM at Accokeek

2009-04-30T10:27:00.002-04:00

Gentlemen:

The time has come once again . . to make the young boys pay their respects to a superior group of manly men. We need to remind them that we can take their women any time we choose . . That we can burst their little bubble of rugby success with our vast experience and skill . . and it is only by our generous grace that they can even continue on the field.

Fortunately we do not have to wear the new skin-tight uniforms that are inadequate to cover our copious musculature . . but we need to be there en masse to represent West Potomac and the older fraternity. If we have good numbers, it will allow us to keep the standard OB complement of 17 on the field at all times as well as continuous subbing every 5 minutes. We will have enough OBs that can actually run to pass to, but we still need fillers to catch and pass, or kick, plus lean on the pack and/or fall down in front of attacking opponents. This we can all do well.

The time has arrived to put down the remote control, dust off all your rugby equipment that was declared obsolete a decade ago, and come to the game! 5 good minutes is all that is asked of you and an obligatory photo op afterwards. In 20 years I have never been to an OB/YB game that I didn't thoroughly enjoy . . and this will be no different. Be there you idle old bastards . . it will be a great day! Bring family and friends. BBQ to be served on site.

Directions to Accokeek are on the website at http://www.dcrugby.org/directions.cfm

Murray

PS - Here's a link for the Young Boys.

The Old Boys Have Taken Over the Blog

2009-04-28T11:01:00.001-04:00

Admin privileges for all Young Boys have been revoked until further notice!!!!! -KJ