MAKE ROOM FOR A NEW TEAM: RUGBY

Chaminade adds to its athletic program for the first time in over 25 years

Spring of 2023 marks the inaugural season of the Chaminade’s newly-formed Rugby Team. After much discussion, the decision was finally made to give this fast-growing sport a chance at the school. Moreover, the Catholic High School Athletic Association (CHSAA) has also approved rugby as an official sport, providing even more legitimacy for a program that is gaining popularity in the United States. The Rugby World Cup is already the second largest global single-sport competition. This decision is also a key step toward wider support of the game within New York State. It serves as a culmination of a long period of work by Rugby New York and those involved in the high school game. Matt Persanis, Rugby NY president, commented, “The acceptance of rugby into the CHSAA is fantastic news. The CHSAA is a very competitive league with natural rivalries all over.”

The outpouring of support since the announcement from both students and alumni has been overwhelming. Over 100 students across four divisions have already shown interest, and countless alumni who play or played in college offered their services. Ed Panzella ’90 agreed to be the first head coach, and his longtime friend and Stony Brook University coach Jerry Mirro signed up to be the director of the program. Chaminade has joined a league with Xavier High School in Manhattan, Fordham Preparatory School in the Bronx, and St. Anthony’s High School in what will hopefully be the start of a growing trend.

Head Coach Ed Panzella first encountered the sport in college at Fairfield University. He immediately appreciated the culture of teamwork and camaraderie that rugby offers its players. He continued to play in men’s leagues for many years after college as well.

He made particular note of the international community that rugby has fostered. “I now have friends all over the world. I can call up a guy in Ireland, tell him I’m visiting the country, and immediately have a place to stay!”

Starting any sport at Chaminade is not without challenges. The school already sponsors seven other spring sports, so logistical issues, such as practice space, transportation, and personnel, had to be addressed by the athletic department. Even matches cannot be held on an American football field, as a rugby pitch is considerably larger. Some concern was also raised about perceived safety issues with the sport itself. The coaching staff’s first task, in fact, is to teach the students proper techniques to minimize the risk of injuries. One of the first fundamentals to be taught will be proper tackling. “Soccer actually has a higher concussion rate,” Athletic Director Mr. John Honerkamp ’93 said. “When played properly, rugby is no more dangerous than other sports.” The sport also provides an enormous amount of physical conditioning to its players.

Coach Panzella also noted the fact that almost no student at Chaminade has any significant experience with rugby, so teaching fundamentals will be an essential undertaking in the beginning. He hopes that the new program will allow more students to earn more playing time in live competition, which might not have been possible with other sports. He also notes that, unlike other sports, a player’s size does not significantly impact his ability to excel in rugby. “Some of the best players in the world are under five foot eleven,” he says. Jerry Mirro sees nothing but positive outcomes from the school’s newest sport. “In my experience, football players and wrestlers will be naturally drawn to the game, but I hope everyone who is even slightly interested gives it a shot. Down the road, we may even see the school’s rugby players in major collegiate programs.” He truly believes that the discipline and athleticism fostered by the sport will enhance the entire athletic program at Chaminade. Be sure to follow Chaminade on social media for the most-up-to-date news on everything rugby!

VENMO