2010
2010 celebrates 25 years of Greenwich Cardinal Rugby! With the graduation of twelve starters, there were many positions to fill and a question of how strong we would be. Led by captains, James Utton and Jack Zimmerman, the team came together quickly and played top-level rugby: posting 11 wins and 3 losses. Impressive wins were earned at the Cherry Blossom Tournament as the team beat three Canadian sides to advance to the final for the second straight year. The Cardinals would not repeat as champions as a very talented Barrie Central from Ontario upended the Big Red. After a slow first half, the team played their best 35-minute half by scoring 31 points against Xavier. Qualification for the Northeast Championships came down to Greenwich vs. Fairfield Prep: the boys battled for a 30-29 decision and once again proved to be one of the stronger sides in the Northeast. They went on to capture their third straight state title. Dennis Schmeiler and Ryan Pitassi joined the crew along with coaches John Porter and Joe Petrone. This team played above and beyond our expectations and executed a potent attack averaging 34 points per game. The team was sad to lose one of our brothers, as Coach Bob Ingalls passed away in March. This year we will recognize and induct two tremendous players into the Greenwih Hall of Fame-Rich Nightingale and Brandon Margolis. Rich and Brandon captained the 1999 team that beat Xavier and placed 2nd in the nation. An finally, the author of this history page for the last twenty years will be stepping down as head coach to spend more time with family.. I have cherished the experiences, and I am very proud of this program.. The torch is passed but the Cardinals will still go forward improving every year and playing clean, hard rugby that we can all be proud of. Peace.
Respectfully, Steve Lapham
Respectfully, Steve Lapham