Berkshire United Rugby Club has home opener this weekend
Local United Berkshire Rugby Club players work on a drill.
PITTSFIELD – Have you ever thought about playing men’s rugby? Well, anyone even with a notion for some head clashing and body sacrificing fun should head down to Crosby Field in Pittsfield this weekend to watch some guys – even in their 50s – tackle a team from Boston in the historic game.
Last week the men’s team lost a tough one to Bennington (Vt.) 31-24, but expect to regroup in time for this week’s clash against Olde Ironsides.
The rugby club, which has 25 guys signed on to play from all over Berkshire County – a mix of both new and veteran players, including first-year player and 50-year-old Mike Decoser (whose interest was spawned by watching his daughter play) – will be out there banging heads with guys in their 20s in order to prove that age is just a number.
The United Berkshire RFC, which competes in the Division 4 region, will be trying to improve on its 7-2 record last year and their tournament finals loss to Olde Gold from Boston.
Rugby President Dave Colli expects bigger and better things from this year’s crew as the group has taken on a slew of new players coupled with some veterans like Luke Bloom and James Hurley.
Justin Hoffman just moved to The Berkshires from Boston, where he was a trainer and teacher, and will help anchor a team against some of the best ruggers in the state.
Upcoming home games will feature the united rugby club hosting games against Black River (Vt.) on Oct. 13 and Cape Cod on Oct. 20.
All are welcome to attend the games at Crosby Field and meet the guys at Casey’s in Pittsfield afterwards for pizza and beer.
If you have even an inclination to see what this passionate sport is about, you have to check out one of their games – you won’t be disappointed.
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