2005

2005 would bring the longest season in Cardinal history as the team ventured out on a pre-season tour in February to hopefully get a jump on the season.  After a couple weeks running around in the snow, the boys toured England which included a day in Wales and a tour of the locker rooms and pitch of the world famous, Millennium stadium.  Though no wins were posted in three matches (Keynsham RFC, Penryn RFC, Queen’s Elizabeth College) the team was treated to some very sharp training sessions with top level English coaches.  Much was learned and expectations for the season grew.  As with all of our touring years, the season was exceptional as Greenwich won all league games except for one, yes it was Xavier.  The team went on to the Northeast tournament eager to get another shot at Xavier.  Greenwich got its wish by beating Keio in the quarter’s and dismantling the New England #1 seed- St. John’s Prep, 41-3 in the semis.  The showdown was a battle, but a couple costly errors and a strong wind found Greenwich on the losing end to Xavier 26-12.  A number two finish was still a great accomplishment and secured the team another trip to the National Championships; this time at Stanford University.  Captains Frank Gianchetta and James Lawrence had their hands full leading this fiery bunch that played with a lot of energy and passion.  Coaches Joe Petrone and John Porter were back again and the team benefited greatly from their instruction.  Our Hall of Fame inductee was “Coach Bob” Ingalls.