Though it pains me, ALL PRACTICES -- U-13, U-15, AND HIGH SCHOOL BOYS AND HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS -- ARE CANCELLED TODAY (SATURDAY).

WATCH THE WEBSITE FOR INFORMATION ON PRACTICES TOMORROW (SUNDAY).

I will be working today on the Carolina trip room list and transportation plan. If you haven't turned in your Carolina form (or have provided partial information via email), I may be calling you over the course of the day.

Let's hope for a good day tomorrow.

Curt

1. PRACTICES THIS WEEKEND WILL BE AS FOLLOWS:

Saturday:

10 am to noon: All middle school players

Noon to 2 pm: All high school boys players

2 pm to 4 pm: All high school girls players

Noon to 2 pm: All boys, all ages

2 pm to 4 pm: All girls

Practice location is Pocopson Elementary School.

BRING YOUR MOUTHGUARDS!!!

Dress appropriately. Weather is supposed to be in the mid to high 40s.

2. IT IS NOT TOO LATE TO JOIN UNIONVILLE RUGBY. BRING A FRIEND.

3. BRING YOUR CAROLINA FORMS TO PRACTICE IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY TURNED THEM IN. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT!!!

See you all tomorrow.

Curt

It's finally time to begin!

I just returned from Pocopson. The field is soft, but playable. Expect to come home muddy.

Wear appropriate warmth. BE SURE TO BRING YOUR MOUTHGUARDS.

If you haven't already submitted your paperwork -- registration, spirit wear order, Carolina trip, volunteer -- bring it to practice today.

I'll see you all in a bit!

Curt

As you know, we had some technical difficulties at the annual meeting that prevented us from effectively sharing a slide show about Unionville Rugby. The show is now posted below as a .pdf document.

While the file does not have musical accompanyment from U2, I still think it important that each of you take a few minutes to step through the photos. (By the way, the file is large. You probably will want to download the .pdf onto your machine and watch it from the downloaded file. I found that the images are slow to load -- and occasionally don't load -- if you try to watch directly from the website.)

This message contains a ton of new information.  Please take the time to read it through.

Curt

1.                    MIDDLE SCHOOL SPECIFIC ITEM

Before covering the items of universal interest, I want you to know that there has been an important development for our MIDDLE SCHOOL families.  At the request of several programs, the Carolina Youth Rugby Festival will run its youth bracket as Under-14.   (Under 14 is age appropriate for Grades 6, 7 and 8).  This means that every player in our program is able to make the trip south.  This is a change from the information conveyed at our annual meeting.  AGAIN, EVERY MIDDLE SCHOOL-AGED UNIONVILLE RUGBY PLAYER IS AGE-APPROPRIATE TO MAKE THIS TRIP.  PLEASE JOIN US!!!

2.                   NORTH CAROLINA TRIP

The attachment to this email contains a sign up form for Carolina.  We will be using the information submitted on this form to secure room reservations and to assure that we have adequate transportation.  Please return the form to me by no later than Saturday, February 4.  YOU SHOULD RETURN YOUR FORM EVEN IF YOU CANNOT MAKE THE TRIP – OTHERWISE, I WILL CONTINUE TO HOUND YOU WITH THE FEROCITY OF A TELEMARKETER AT DINNERTIME.

For those making travel plans, we will leave early Friday morning (March 9) for the drive south.  Door-to-door is about 10 hours.  Both Principals are aware of the trip and have already notified the faculty and staff that a large group will be out that day.  THE AGREED RULE IS THAT THE LIST I PROVIDE THE SCHOOLS WILL BE THE APPROVED ABSENCE LIST.  (One more reason why your form is important.)

At this point, we have 4 teams entered in the festival:  2 high school boys teams, 1 high school girls team, and 1 Under-14 team.  (We have a narrow window to add additional teams if our numbers warrant such.)  Though the match schedules won’t be issued for a while, programs from across the south (NC, SC, TN, GA, FL) – and from as far north as Canada – have already committed to attend.  This is going to be a fantastic event.

Last year, we stopped along the way to play an exhibition match in Roanoke, VA and have a quick team dinner at a buffet restaurant.  We are in discussions for a similar arrangement this year.

For those of you who went south last year, you will understand the significance of this statement:  “Saturday night will be BBQ night.”  For those who didn’t go south last year, just know that a team dinner featuring Carolina BBQ would be worth the trip even if there were no rugby.

3.            VOLUNTEERISM

I’ve also attached a volunteer sign up form.  As we mentioned at the annual meeting, the Unionville Rugby program lives on the strength of parental volunteerism. 

In my view, game social is the most significant because (a) it is at the heart of the culture of rugby, (b) we’re feeding a LOT of folks, which requires many helping hands and some organization, and (c) it is probably the best forum for building parent-level relationships which is a big part of the fun at a family level.  Especially important with the departure to New England of Donna Woislaw (who magnificently led the game social effort last year), is the need for one or more volunteers to take the organizing lead.

Please complete the form and return it at the first practice so we can get things “organized.”  (“Organized,” of course, being a relative term – this is rugby after all.)

4.            SIGN UP FORMS AND CLOTHING ORDERS

A steady stream of forms are arriving – and for those who have submitted their paperwork, thank you.  For those who have not yet submitted their paperwork, please do so promptly.  We can’t have a player practice who hasn’t submitted paperwork, so it is vital that you get it in.

Regarding clothing orders, we have some long lead time items, so we need to adhere to the deadline.  Please get your orders in promptly.

5.            PRACTICE SCHEDULE

FIRST PRACTICES WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAY, JANUARY 29, 2012 AT POCOPSON ELEMENTARY.

Our regular practice schedules will be as follows:

Saturdays: 

10 to noon (U-13 and U-15)

Noon to 2 pm (High School Boys Varsity and JV)

2 pm to 4 pm (High School Girls)

Sundays: 

Noon to 2 pm (All Boys)

2 pm to 4 pm (All Girls)

SINCE SPRING SPORTS ALWAYS ENCOUNTER WEATHER-RELATED OR OTHER LAST MINUTE CHANGES, YOU ARE REMINDED TO ALWAYS CHECK THE UNIONVILLE RUGBY WEBSITE (www.unionvillerugby.com) BEFORE DEPARTING FOR PRACTICE. 

6.            MATCH SCHEDULES

Draft match schedules have been issued for most, but not all, teams.  They are being loaded onto the website today.  BE FOREWARNED, HOWEVER, THAT THESE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED “PRETTY CLOSE TO FINAL” AND MAY WEEBLE-WOBBLE AS WE GET CLOSER TO THE START OF THE SEASON.   I’ll do my best to notify you of changes when they occur.

7.            COACHING CERTIFICATION COURSES

For those who are interested in coaching and wish to secure or renew a certification, I am aware of two courses:

January 21-22 in Kutztown (http://www.epru.org/news/usa-rugby-coaching-certification-courses-january-21-22-2012-kutztown-u)

February 4-5 in Phoenixville (http://www.epru.org/news/usa-rugby-coaching-certification-courses-feb-4-5-2012-phoenixville)

IMPORTANT NOTE:  For those who attend (and graduate) Unionville Rugby will reimburse the cost of the training.  We want a deep bench of certified coaches.

8.            PLAYER CLINICS

For those who are interested, I am aware of two winter clinics for players.   Links are shown below.

January 29 & February 5 (Lafayette College – High School Boys):

http://www.epru.org/news/indoor-high-school-rugby-clinics-lafayette-college

January 20-22 (Penn State – Girls)

http://www.gopsusports.com/camps/rugby-day-camp-about.html

Here's the plan:

All players and drivers going to the STATE COLLEGE match should assemble at Pocopson Elementary at 11:00 am.  We will make ride arrangements at that time.

All players and drivers going to the CUMBERLAND VALLEY match should assemble at Pocopson Elementary at noon.  We will make ride arrangements at that time.

This seems the simplest and most effective way to get everyone matched up.

HIGH SCHOOL DIVISION 1 WILL PRACTICE AT POCOPSON FROM NOON TO 2 PM.

Curt

We're taking a risk here, but Roman Catholic and the referee are all agreeable.

We will play the Division 2 match vs. Roman Catholic tomorrow at the Unionville High School stadium. 

Kick-off is at 2 p.m.  Players should arrive at 1 p.m.

There is a chance that it may be in use.  If so, we're out of luck.  But everyone wants to get the match in, so we are going to try.

See you all at the field tomorrow!

NOTE:  DOYLESTOWN U-13 AND U-15 MATCHES WILL PROCEED AS PLANNED. 

GIVEN THE SEVERITY OF THE STORM HOWEVER I SUGGEST THAT EVERYONE CHECK THE WEBSITE TOMORROW MORNING. 

Curt

1.  Under-15 match:  It is important that all eligible players come ready to play.  This includes (a) 9th graders, (b) 8th graders, and (c) 7th graders who want a game.  It is important that we turn out a full side.

Kick-off is at 1:00 p.m. vs. T/E (Conestoga) Tigers.  MATCH IS AT BISHOP SHANAHAN.  Players should arrive at noon.

2.  ALL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SHOULD ARRIVE AT BISHOP SHANAHAN AT 12:30.  We will practice for 50 minutes starting promptly at 12:30.  Do not be late!

3.  HIGH SCHOOL SELECTIONS

UCFSD HAS CLOSED ALL FIELDS ON SATURDAY.  AS A RESULT ALL PRACTICES ARE CANCELLED. 

CHECK YOUR EMAIL FOR IMPORTANT U-RUGBY INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SUNDAY GAMES!!! 

If you did not receive the email, please contact me at patrojan@aol.com so that I can get you a copy promptly.  The information is time sensitive.

Curt

All High School Division 2 players MUST bring the following information to tomorrow's match:

1.  WILL YOUR PARENTS BE DRIVING YOU TO THE MATCH ON THURSDAY AT HAMBURG?

2.  IF YES, DO YOU HAVE ROOM IN YOUR CAR TO TRANSPORT OTHERS?  HOW MANY?

3.  IF NO, DO YOU NEED A RIDE TO HAMBURG?

Conestoga has asked if U-15 wants to play a match at Conestoga in conjunction with the Division 1 high school match.  The schedule would be as follows:

5:00 p.m. -- Kick-off for Division 1 LEAGUE MATCH

Approximately 6:30 p.m. -- Kick-off for Under-15 match

If there is no Under-15 match, we would kick-off the Division 1 match at 5:30 p.m.

ALL DIVISION 1 AND UNDER-15 PLAYERS MUST LET ME KNOW THEIR PREFERENCE ON SUNDAY.

Curt

1.     UNDER-13

      All Under-13 players should report to Hillendale at 3:30 p.m. tomorrow.  Parents, please also come in attire where you can play a little rugby.  IMPORTANT:  U-13 PLAYERS SHOULD PLAN TO MAKE THEMSELVES AVAILABLE FOR THE U-15 MATCH IN THE EVENT THEIR PARTICIPATION IS REQUIRED.

2.     SUNDAY MATCH SCHEDULEHere are the kick-off times:

1:00 –   Salesianum 2 vs. Unionville 2 (DIVISION 2 LEAGUE MATCH -- AWAY). 

Directions are below.  All D2 PLAYERS MUST BE AT THE FIELD BY NOON.

ALSO, ALL D2 PLAYERS ARE TO RETURN TO HILLENDALE AFTER THE MATCH.

Directions to Salesianum’s field appear below.   Salesianum’s Head Coach wants me to be sure you know that the field where they play is a Delaware State Park.  He mentions this because there is a fee to park. 

2:00 –   Radnor at Unionville (DIVISION 1 LEAGUE MATCH AT HILLENDALE).  PLAYERS ARE TO REPORT AT 1 P.M.

3:30 –   Radnor at Unionville (Probable B-side match at Hillendale). 

5:45 --   West Shore U15 at Unionville U15 (U15 League match at Hillendale)  PLAYERS ARE TO REPORT AT 4:45 PM. 

3.     REMINDER:  HIGH SCHOOL SELECTIONS

Selections for Sunday’s matches are listed below:

DIVISION 1 MATCH AT HILLENDALE

BOTH OUR DIVISION 1 AND DIVISION 2 HIGH SCHOOL TEAMS HAVE LEAGUE MATCHES NEXT WEEK ON THURSDAY (APRIL 7).   

DIVISION 1 PLAYS CONESTOGA AT CONESTOGA.  KICKOFF IS AT 5:30 PM. 

DIVISION 2 PLAYS HAMBURG AT HAMBURG (NEAR READING).  KICKOFF IS AT 6:00 PM IN LIGHT OF THE LONGER DRIVE TO GET THERE. 

IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE GET FULL TEAM PARTICIPATION AT BOTH MATCHES.     

5.     SUNDAY MATCH FIELD SETUP

Hillendale is set up and ready to go.  We will NOT be meeting on Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m.    

6.     REMINDER:  SUNDAY GAME SOCIAL

Parents:  Please come to the field earlier than your scheduled games and help out with the grills and tables so that all the volunteers are able to watch their son(s) play.   We intend to serve through the middle school games.  For that to happen, we need a couple volunteers from the high school families to help.   Here's what we need folks to bring:  

?  WATER

?  Coolers, labeled with name and filled partially with ice.

?  Gatorade (which is OK since we don't have to worry about the artificial turf.)

?  Dessert items, both store bought and home baked

?  Snacky items...whatever your rugby player likes

?  Fruit, any way that works for you, cut up or whole

?  Tables, labeled with your name. We have some tables,but this weekend we could use more. 

Please contact Donna Woislaw (donna.woislaw@gmail.com or 610-888-2682) if you can volunteer your time.   

7.     DRIVING DIRECTIONS (provided by Salesianum)

Directions to (Salesianum’s home pitch) Alapocas Run

*there is a state park fee of $3 to park

Via 202 South

·         202 South past Route 141 (Astra Zeneca on corner)

·         Stay to the right and take the ramp leading to 141 spur/Foulk Rd.

·         At the light, turn left onto the 141 spur (this becomes Foulk Rd.)

·         Go under the 202 overpass

·         Make a right onto Weldin Rd.

·         You will see the field on your right, but park on the left

·         Be sure to use “Self Pay” envelopes 

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE HIGH SCHOOL DIVISION 1 SIDE FOR A HUGE WIN OVER CUMBERLAND VALLEY ON SUNDAY!!!

The following information should help everyone to plan for the upcoming weekend.

1. SATURDAY PRACTICES ARE AT POCOPSON ELEMENTARY

A. MIDDLE SCHOOL AND 9TH GRADERS

We’re going to try something a little different this week.

9:00 to 10:00 – Extra work on core skills for middle school players. If you are in 7th grade or younger – or if you are a middle schooler in your first year of playing rugby – please attend this session.

10:00 to 11:00 -- All middle school players should be present

11:00 to noon – 9th Grade players are to join the practice. The focus of this segment will be on Under-15 play. Players who attended the 9:00 to 10:00 session are welcome (indeed, encouraged) to stay, but the focus will be on developing next level skills.

The goal is to give better attention to the various levels of players that we have at the middle school level.

B. HIGH SCHOOL INCLUDING 9TH GRADERS

Noon to 2 p.m. – Our weaknesses were on full display this weekend. We’ll get that taken care of. It’s vital that our turnout be high for this practice!!!

Yes, I am aware that 9th graders are practicing from 11 am to 2 pm. Rest assured that it is because you are wanted, needed, and seen by everyone as truly wonderful people.

2.  SUNDAY MATCHES

In an event as rare as a full solar eclipse, ALL OF OUR BOYS MATCHES ARE AT HOME THIS WEEKEND. (For those of you who have forgotten where "home" is, our matches are played at HILLENDALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.)

Game social information will be posted on the website tomorrow night (Tuesday, March 21).

Here are the kick-off times:

12:00 -- Exeter at Unionville (High School Division 2 League match)

1:30 -- Exeter B at Unionville B (High School B-Side match)

2:30 -- Coatesville at Unionville (High School Division 1 League match)

4:30 -- Downingtown U13 at Unionville U13 (U13 League match)

5:30 -- Downingtown U15 at Unionville U15 (U15 League match)

ALL PLAYERS MUST REPORT 1 HOUR BEFORE THE SCHEDULED KICK-OFF TIME.

HIGH SCHOOL SELECTIONS WILL BE POSTED TOMORROW NIGHT (TUESDAY, MARCH 21) ON THE UNIONVILLE RUGBY WEBSITE (www.unionvillerugby.com)

3. FUTURE HIGH SCHOOL MATCHES AT IRREGULAR TIMES

a. THURSDAY, APRIL 7 (AWAY MATCHES)  

5:30 p.m. - Division 1 plays a League Match at Conestoga

5:30 p.m. - Division 2 plays a League Match at Hamburg (near Reading)

b. FRIDAY, APRIL 15 (STADIUM GAME EVENT IN THE UHS FOOTBALL STADIUM)  

5:00 p.m. - Division 2 plays a League Match against Valley Forge Military Academy

6:30 p.m. - Division 1 plays a League Match against Malvern Prep

c. HIGH SCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIPS (BOTH DIVISION 1 AND DIVISION 2)

The playoffs will commence in the week following the completion of the EPRU playoffs (May 1).

14 EPRU high school teams and two western PA teams will qualify.  

Seedings and first round pairings will be announced on or before April 20, 2011. 

Round 1 will take place Tuesday May 3, 2011 

Round 2, the quarterfinal round, will take place on Saturday May 7, 2011.  An exception will be given to the EPRU champion, if it is a PA team.  That team will play its opponent at home on May 8 due to that team having to play on May 7th for the MARFU Championship.

The Semifinals will take place Saturday May 14 and the winners will play for the championship on Sunday May 15.

Events today (Saturday):

1.  Middle School Practice:  10 am to noon at Pocopson

2.  High School:  Matches at Kutztown University. 

Since there is some question now about attendance, I am asking that all players try to arrive by 9 am.  If you were originally assigned to the D2 side and cannot get there at 9, please do everything you can to arrive before 10.

3.  Field Set Up:  5:30 pm at Hillendale

If you did not receive the email, please contact me at patrojan@aol.com so that I can get you a copy promptly.  The information is time sensitive.

Curt

AS OF 10:53 A.M.

The radar suggests that the pause in the rain is just a "hole" in the storm front.  The most recent forecast is for calm to prevail until about 12:30, then heavy rains and thunder begin -- continuing through the evening. 

As a result, I am going to cancel today's practices.  (Of course, now that I've done so, it will turn out to be sunny and 68 degrees.)  It is the continued forecast for thunder as the front moves through that concerns me.

Please watch your email in the next day or two ... there will be final instructions and other information regarding the Carolina trip coming your way.

Curt

AS OF 9:30 A.M.

Please check the site at 11 a.m.

Though the weather right now looks promising, Accuweather (the service which I've had the best luck with) indicates significant thunderstorms from noon to 4 p.m.

If we are expected to have lightning, I will not convene practice since we have no safe haven available to move our players.

I will check the site at 10:45 and make the call at that point.

Four quick items:

1.  PRACTICE -- SATURDAY, MARCH 5

I walked the Pocopson field this morning.  It is still marshy (and, incidentally, well fertilized by the Canadian geese).  If we were to play there, we would tear it up.

Consequently, we will practice today at Unionville High School.

- Middle School Boys from 10 to noon

- High School Boys from noon to 2

2.  SPRIT WEAR

Most, but not all, of the spirit wear has arrived.  We will distribute it today.  THIS MEANS WE NEED HELP!!!  Parents who can assist, please be at Unionville High School for the start of today's 10 am practice.  We will sort the stuff and put it in bags.  If everyone pitches in, we can have everything ready by the end of the middle school practice.

4.  CIPP REGISTRATION

From this point forward, if you haven't registered, you cannot play in matches.  A list of all registered players was emailed to all families at about 5:15 p.m. yesterday (March 4).  IF YOU ARE NOT ON THE LIST, OR IF YOU DID NOT RECEIVE THE EMAIL, YOU MUST SEE ME ASAP.

Sunday's matches at Conestoga have been canceled. 

It is our desire for our players to have a match tomorrow.  Consequently, we will have a full scrimmage at Unionville High School.   Kickoff will occur at approx 5 pm, and we will be done before dark.  All players should wear jerseys or other shirts that are not blue (we will create 1 team with blue game jerseys and another team without them).  Side selection will take place at the field. 

Rules regarding the UHS artificial surface: 

1.  Clear liquids only -- no Gatorade

2.  No standing on the track

I apologize for the late notice.  Conestoga notified us last night that the match was canceled.

Curt

I'm sorry for the delay in getting logistics posted for the middle school program this weekend.  I just received the following and, because of field conditions, I must still label this preliminary.

All sorts of stuff: 

1.  Saturday practices. 

I need to move the time of the high school boys practice on Saturday.  I apologize for this change, but this is a rugby meeting in Allentown that I must attend.  So, the following will be our practice times:            

Middle School Boys:  (Normal time)  10 a.m. to noon 

High School Boys:  (Special time) 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

PRACTICES WILL BE AT UNIONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL 

2.  Sunday matches:  

Middle School Boys:  We are awaiting the final timetable for Sunday’s matches.  I will send a note as soon as I receive the times. 

High School Boys: 

All High School Boys Sunday matches are at Unionville High School. 

Players should arrive at least 1 hour before match time. 

HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER GAME ASSIGNMENTS APPEAR BELOW.  PLEASE NOTE THAT MANY PLAYERS ARE ASSIGNED TO MULTIPLE GAMES.  This is to give everyone a ton of playing time.  Be sure to check the games to which you are assigned. 

GAME SOCIAL:  Donna Woislaw has asked that I request that HIGH SCHOOL FAMILIES bring some or all of the following to Sunday's matches: 

-           WATER Lots of it!

-           Gatorade

-           Desserts (all kinds, store bought and/or home made)

-           Coolers and Ice (Please put your name on coolers)

-           Chips/pretzels/snacky stuff

-           Anything you'd like to eat and share at the game

-           Portable tables (labeled with your name) 

Additionally, Grillmasters are wanted and appreciated. (We will grill in shifts so that parents can watch their son's game.)  Please e-mail Donna at donna.woislaw@gmail.com if you can assist so that she is able to plan better. 

3. MATCH ASSIGNMENTS

MIDDLE SCHOOL match assignments will be made when we have match times. 

HIGH SCHOOL player assignments appear below, by match. 

Again, be sure to check if you are appearing in more than one match!!!  IF YOUR NAME DOES NOT APPEAR, IT MEANS THAT I MESSED UP.  Please let me know and I will get you assigned to the proper match(es). 

a.        Noon to 1:30 (Players should arrive at 11):  Unionville vs. Cardinal O’Hara

Steven Annan

Zach Barnes

Spencer Dell

Derek Emlet

Ethan Fish

Ryan Hartley

Nate Henderson

Spencer Hendrixson

Alex Hill

Jordan Hodess

Perry Hopkins

Joe Kleschick

John Kleschick

Conor Lacy

Marshall Lane

Robbie McNew

Jamie McNew

Patrick O'Connell

Tyler Sanderson

Sam Scales

Bucky Stanton

David Stitz

Stephen Tryens 

b.      1:30 to 2:30:  West Chester vs. Unionville (Players should arrive at 12:30, unless already there)

Paul Anderson

Steve Annan

Sean Barnes

John Bradley

Mario Cotto

John Cronin

Spencer Dell

Ryan Hartley

Spencer Hendrixson

Alex Hill

Jordan Hodess

Joe Kleschick

John Kleschick

Marshall Lane

Jamie McNew

Darren O'Connor

Tyler Sanderson

Sam Scales

Hunter Scales

David Stitz

Stephen Tryens 

c.       2:30 to 4:00:  West Chester vs. Unionville (Players should arrive at 1:30 unless already there)

Chris Baker

Trevor Bloomfield

Tom Caswell

Dima Curtis

Bas deVries

Ryan Ford

Jason Hodess

Perry Hopkins

Stephen Lange

Daniel Mushnick

Griffin Norman

Stephen Olenik

Ryan Potts

Jack Raube

Connor Riley

Colin Roberts

Daulton Sanderson

Michael Silver

Beau Stitz

Troy Varrasse

Taylor Williams

Matt Woislaw 

d.      4:00 to 5:30:  West Chester vs. Unionville (Players should start warmup at 3:00) 

Zach Barnes

Sean Barnes

Spencer Dell

Bas deVries

Derek Emlet

Ethan Fish

Ryan Hartley

Nate Henderson

Jason Hodess

Jordan Hodess

Conor Lacy

Marshall Lane

Robbie McNew

Patrick O'Connell

Connor Riley

Tyler Sanderson

Sam Scales

Bucky Stanton

David Stitz

Stephen Tryens

Taylor Williams

Matt Woislaw 

There is more to come as the week progresses.  Let’s hope all the snow melts and that the weather is dry.  If you have any questions about the above, please drop me an email. 

Curt

Practices on Sunday will be held at their normal time at UNIONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL. 

We will continue our work on tackling and rucking ... so wear rugby gear and be sure to have your mouthguard.

Remember, we cannot take colored fluids onto the field ... Gatorade is a no-no.  Bring water!

All boys (Middle School and High School) will practice from noon to 2 pm.

See you all at UHS!

Curt

Our practice on Sunday, February 13 will again be at the Unionville HS parking lot.

All Boys -- Middle School and High School:  Noon - 2 pm

Be sure to bring your mouthguard.  Temperatures will reach 40 degrees!  Let's hope for some melt off.

For the high school boys:  We will introduce 15 man play.  After today's practice, we have only 3 more times together before our first match.  It is important that you be there!

 Curt

All possible fields have at least 2" of snow under a thin ice cover.  Great for penguins and polar bears who are interested in our sport.

Here's what we're going to do today:

1.  All boys (Middle School and High School) will practice at Unionville High School at our regular time:  Noon to 2 p.m.

2.  We will break into forwards and backs. 

Backs will practice entirely on the blacktop, so wear appropriate footwear. 

Forwards will move onto the snow for lifting and scrummage instruction.  (FORWARDS SHOULD WEAR RUGBY SHORTS, RUGBY JERSEYS, AND SHOES THAT CAN GET WET.) 

Also, all players should bring sufficient warm clothing to put on if they get cold.

If you don't know whether you are a forward or a back, dress according to directions for forwards so that you are suitable for both situations.

ALL PLAYERS MUST HAVE MOUTH GUARDS.

LET ME STRESS THE IMPORTANCE OF PRACTICES AT THIS POINT IN OUR PREPARATION.  WE HAVE A MATCH IN 21 DAYS -- I'M NOW EVALUATING FOR THE PURPOSES OF SIDE SELECTION.

I look forward to seeing you all at noon at Unionville High School.

Curt

We will be inspecting possible practice sites on Saturday morning.  Check the website one hour before practice for final location.

Curt

UNIONVILLE RUGBY SNOW BOWL AT POCOPSON ELEMENTARY (LOWER PLAYING FIELD)

ALL BOYS (MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL)

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30 ... NOON TO 2 PM

-- We will teach tackling

-- We will play snow rugby (We'll split the field ... one match will be Middle School, the other High School)

-- We will get wet (remember that for the ride home)

-- We will be tackling, so you MUST have your mouthguard

Parents and players:  I stress the importance of dressing appropriately (i.e., snow pants, snow boots, snow jackets, gloves).  The weather will be sunny and a balmy 35 degrees, making for a slushy playing field.  (There were 6" of snow or so on the Pocopson field today.)  Again, your mouthguard is mandatory.

This should be incredible fun for everyone ... but it also has a serious learning side.  The lessons in tackling are vitally important.

Please also bring any forms still outstanding to practice (registration, Carolina, spirit-wear).

See you at noon!

Curt

1.  PRACTICE

Given the cold temperatures, we will have an abbreviated practice today on the parking lot at Unionville High School.

Middle School Boys:  Noon to 1 p.m.

High School Boys:  Noon to 1 p.m.

Weather.com says it will be 23 degrees, so wear warm clothes, tennis shoes, gloves, and ear protection.  Bring water.

2.  REMEMBER TO BRING ...

If you haven't already turned them in, remember to bring:

a.  Your registration forms and payment

b.  Your spirit-wear order and payment

c.  Your Carolina trip confirmation form (to be turned in whether or not you will be going)

3.  COACHES AND WANT-TO-HELP-OUTERS ...

We will have a brief (30 - 45 minute) coaches meeting (which includes those who just want to assist during practice) immediately after practice.  We will convene at Giordano's in Kennett Square at about 1:20.  Please attend even if you are only thinking about it at this point.

Weather forecast says "too cold to play outside Saturday"

We will instead meet on Saturday at the Episcopal Church of the Advent, 401 N Union Street, Kennett Square.  We are sincerely grateful for the church allowing us to use a room in their facility.  Here is a link to the church website:  http://www.church-of-the-advent.com/

Saturday is important, because we may not be able to practice on Sunday (the call will be made Sunday morning and posted to the website)

Middle School Boys-- 10 am - Noon

High School Boys -- Noon - 2 pm

Girls -- check the girls website

We will cover rules, game strategy, and do some film work.  We will also finalize the schedule and Carolina trip planning.

Wear rugby gear -- if space permits, we will work on building a scrum and binding, which can be done indoors.

Please remember to bring your Carolina forms with you, as well as your spiritwear order if you have not turned them in already -- and your registration materials if those have been turned in.

I look forward to seeing you all on Saturday. 

This is a reminder to read the message below and respond.  If you have not already responded, please do so ASAP (and thanks to those of you who have!!!).  It is very important.

Three other quick items:

1.  Penn State Camp

Several players have expressed interest in the Penn State Winter Clinic, which will be held February 4-6.  Below is a link to the website:

http://www.outreach.psu.edu/psu-sport-camps/rugby-winter/

This is a terrific camp.  While absolutely optional, I can assure you that you'll learn a ton if you choose to go.

2.  Weekend

The current weekend forecast is not promising.  Please be sure to check the website on Saturday morning to verify final logistics.  I will have final confirmation up at least 1 hour before the start of practice.

3.  Virginia Tech Match

This caught my eye and strikes me as way cool.  Check out Virginia Tech Rugby's schedule as posted on the website.  Scroll down to March 11:

http://www.virginiatechrugby.com/schedule.html

I'm looking forward to seeing you all this weekend.  Again, be sure to respond to the email below.

Thanks.

Curt

Hey all.  We had an excellent start this weekend. Thank heaven for the melted patches that allowed us to introduce rucking today (a critical skill).  Everyone did great.  A lot of work in front of us, but we looked good. I am very pleased.  

This note is primarily to request your feedback, but it also provides important information.  IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU RESPOND BY THE DEADLINES PROVIDED IN THE EMAIL.

I need to emphasize that timely response from every family to this email is crucial.  We’re making commitments to hotels, festival organizers, and other teams that we need to keep. 

1.  HOUSEKEEPING

Four quick housekeeping items:

a.       Remember that apparel / spiritwear forms are due next weekend.  If you haven’t already submitted your materials (sign up forms and apparel orders), please bring them to practice next weekend or mail them to me.

b.       Mouthguards are essential at practice.  I cannot allow players into contact unless they have their mouthguard.  Please be certain to ALWAYS bring your mouthguard.

c.       Be sure to check the website (www.unionvillerugby.com) before coming to practice.  I will always have final confirmation of practice status posted at least 1 hour before practice begins.  With plenty of winter weather in front of us, we’re almost certain to have last minute changes.  I may or may not be able to send emails.  RELY ON THE WEBSITE AS YOUR DEFINITIVE INFORMATION SOURCE.

d.       Just a reminder that attendance at practice is very important to skills development. Please continue to make every effort to be at each practice.

2.  CAROLINA TRIP

Message to everyone: 

I have posted below (at the end of this message) a confirmation form for the trip.  PLEASE COMPLETE THE FORM (EVEN IF YOU CANNOT GO) AND RETURN IT TO ME BY NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 23.

Message to High School families: 

We have entered two teams in the tournament to assure that everyone who makes the trip plays a lot of rugby.  That means that we must have 35 players make the trip from grades 9-12.

Also, the weekend after the tournament are our first league matches.  Consequently, it will be necessary for the teams to be selected based on play in Carolina.

The bottom line is that it is important for high school players to make the trip.  If there is an SAT conflict, I understand.  Otherwise, I really need you there.

Please complete the confirmation form mentioned above (whether or not you are coming south) and bring it to practice next weekend.

Message to Middle School families:

At this writing, I have received responses from 12 players … I have not yet heard from 26 players.  (Thank you to those who have responded.)  At this point we have 11 “yes” or "probable." 

I’m going to presume that we will have sufficient numbers and lock down our spot in Charlotte.

This means that if you are on the fence, I need you to join the adventure.  It most definitely will be a fantastic experience.

Please complete the confirmation form mentioned above (whether or not you are coming south) and bring it to practice next weekend.

3.  STADIUM GAME

Each year, we play a series of matches on a Friday night in the UHS stadium.  It’s our showcase of rugby to the Unionville community.  We try to have a middle school match, a girls HS match, and boys HS matches.  It is a big event. This year, we’ve been offered the stadium on FRIDAY, APRIL 15.

What’s important here is that April 15 is the last day of school before spring break.

BY NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19, PLEASE CONFIRM BY RETURN EMAIL THAT YOU WILL BE ABLE TO PLAY THAT NIGHT.  (This applies to all players, both middle school and high school.)

4.  HIGH SCHOOL SCHEDULING ISSUE

I have a scheduling issue the weekend of March 18-20, where several matches are colliding. 

All of our high school players are scheduled to play the Northeast Raiders at Kutztown on Saturday, March 19.  We'll play two full matches so that everyone gets game time, with the first match kicking off at 9:30 am.  (This match was set up as an opportunity to showcase our players for the coaches of Kutztown and Penn State).

On Sunday, March 20, the League has scheduled our Division 1 side (and accompanying “B” side) to be at Cumberland Valley, and our Division 2 side to be at home against Roman Catholic. 

So there is no confusion, Unionville is fielding 3 high school sides this year.  Our top players will play in a league comprised of the best teams in Pennsylvania (Division 1).  Our remaining players will be distributed between two additional teams.  Some will play on a team we have entered in a league for developing teams (Division 2).  Others will play for a team that will play a match after each Division 1 match (“B” side).

A match in Kutztown on March 19 will put our performance on March 20 at risk.  I know that Cumberland Valley is a good side and expect Roman Catholic to be very competitive as well.  Since these are league matches, I’m reluctant to leave the schedule as is.

I can think of 3 options (none good), but want your feedback on each:

a.  Cancel the Kutztown match  and play our League matches against Cumberland Valley and Roman Catholic on Sunday, March 20.

b. Move the League match against Cumberland Valley to Friday night, March 18 (which Cumberland Valley has offered), then play at Kutztown early the next morning. Our D2 team  would still play Roman Catholic on Sunday, March 20.

c. Go ahead and play the matches as scheduled.  Kutztown on Saturday, March 19, and our League matches on Sunday, March 20.

BY NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19, ALL HIGH SCHOOL PLAYERS SHOULD INDICATE BY RETURN EMAIL THEIR FIRST CHOICE, SECOND CHOICE, AND THIRD CHOICE OF THE OPTIONS ABOVE.   

Thanks to everyone for all your help.  We’re off to a great start.  It’s going to be a terrific season.

Curt Baker

Below are the materials you need to register.

WE WILL PRACTICE AGAIN TODAY IN THE PARKING LOT AT UNIONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL OUTSIDE THE STADIUM

MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS (GRADES 6-8):  NOON TO 2 PM

HIGH SCHOOL BOYS (GRADES 9-12):  NOON TO 2 PM

If we can find a bare patch somewhere, we will start work on rucking today.  If this happens, expect somewhat muddy players for the ride home.

YOU MUST WEAR A MOUTHGUARD TODAY!!!

Also:

-- WEAR SHOES APPROPRIATE FOR RUNNING ON ASPHALT

-- BRING WATER

-- DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR THE WEATHER.  (FORECAST IS FOR 26 DEGREES AT 10 AM, 29 AT NOON, 31 AT 2 WITH LIGHT WINDS)

FINALLY, HIGH SCHOOL PLAYERS, REMEMBER TO HAVE ANSWERS TO THE THREE QUESTIONS:

1.  Can you play in the stadium game if it is held Friday night, April 15?  (This is the evening of the last day of school before Spring break.)

2.  I have a scheduling issue the weekend of March 18-20, where two games are colliding.  We are scheduled to play the Northeast Raiders at Kutztown on Saturday, March 19.  We'll play A & B sides, with first kickoff at 9:30 am.  (This match was set up as an opportunity to showcase our players for the coaches of Kutztown and Penn State).

The League has scheduled us to be at Cumberland Valley on Sunday, March 20.  (Happily, that's the end of our big travel until playoffs.)  A match on March 19 will put our performance on March 20 at risk -- Cumberland Valley is a good side.

I can think of 3 options (none good), but want your feedback on each:

a.  Cancel the Kutztown match  and play our League match at Cumberland Valley on Sunday, March 20.

b. Move the League match to Friday night, March 18 (which Cumberland Valley has offered), then play at Kutztown early the next morning.

c. Cancel the Kutztown match  and play our League match at Cumberland Valley on Friday night, March 18. 

3.  I need to verify that all High School players (Grades 9-12) will be making the trip to Charlotte.

Also, I now have about half the registration forms.  If you haven't turned them in, bring your registration forms and apparel orders to practice.

Curt Baker

POCOPSON IS COVERED IN SNOW ... PRACTICE LOCATION HAS CHANGED ... WE WILL PRACTICE INSTEAD IN THE PARKING LOT AT UNIONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL OUTSIDE THE STADIUM

MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS (GRADES 6-8):  10 AM TO NOON

HIGH SCHOOL BOYS (GRADES 9-12):  NOON TO 2 PM

-- WEAR SHOES APPROPRIATE FOR RUNNING ON ASPHALT

-- BRING WATER

-- THOUGH THERE WILL BE NO SIGNIFICANT CONTACT, BRING YOUR MOUTHGUARD.  I WANT YOU IN THE HABIT OF WEARING IT.

-- DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR THE WEATHER.  (FORECAST IS FOR 26 DEGREES AT 10 AM, 31 AT NOON, 34 AT 2 WITH LIGHT WINDS)

WELCOME TO PRESEASON IN THE WINTER.

If you haven't already turned them in, bring your registration forms and apparel orders to practice.

See you tomorrow (Saturday) for the chilly kick-off to our season.

Curt Baker

Happy holidays to everyone.  There’s lots of news about rugby.  Please forward this message to anyone you believe might have an interest in playing this year.

Note that some of the material in this message is focused on the boys’ side.  I’m confident that any gaps will be filled by significant subsequent communication that is girls’ side specific. 

With UHS torn up, we’ve had a challenge finding a suitable time for our annual meeting.  The session will be held on FRIDAY NIGHT, JANUARY 7 AT 7:00 PM AT UNIONVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.  All players, potential players, and parents should be in attendance that evening.

Since we will take a team photo that night for inclusion in the Charlotte tournament brochure, all boys should wear khaki pants, a collared shirt, and a tie.

The sign up period is now open.  All forms are posted on the Unionville Rugby website.  You can use the old URL (www.eteamz.com/unionvillerugby) or the new, easier URL (www.unionvillerugby.com). 

To get to the forms, click on HANDOUTS on the left side menu, then click on “2011 SIGN UP MATERIALS.”  You should then download, print, and complete the forms.

What an adventure this will be! 

a.       We have registered TWO (2) high school teams in the Carolina Youth Rugby Festival.  Since this is the bulk of our pre-season, HIGH SCHOOL PLAYERS SHOULD MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO ATTEND.  Festival matches will be played on March 12 & 13.  (More on the festival in a moment.)I’M TOLD THAT IF WE MOVE QUICKLY, WE MIGHT STILL BE ABLE TO GET A GIRLS’ SIDE AND A U-14 BOYS SIDE INTO THE CHARLOTTE TOURNAMENT.  IF YOU ARE EITHER (A) A GIRLS RUGBY PLAYER/PARENT OR (B) A BOYS U-14 PARENT, PLEASE LET ME KNOW BY RETURN EMAIL IF YOU HAVE AN INTEREST IN MAKING THIS TRIP.  YOU SHOULD RESPOND BY NO LATER THAN DECEMBER 26.

b.      Unionville-Chadds Ford students are not in session on Friday, March 11, so we will depart from UHS at 7 a.m.   

c.       On the way south, we will convene in Roanoke, Virginia to play in an exhibition match.  Unionville High School will play Virginia Tech’s Freshman Side.  Kick-off is at 3 p.m.   The match will be heavily promoted in Roanoke by the Roanoke Men’s Rugby Club, the Roanoke City Public Schools (activity buses will carry interested middle school and high school players to the pitch), and Roanoke’s Parks and Recreation Department. 

d.      After the match, we’ll travel the remaining 3.5 hours to Charlotte. 

e.      We expect the hotel to be the same as last year.  Room price is unchanged:  $89/night + tax. 

f.        Interesting tidbits.   

(i)       The tournament organizers in Charlotte will be broadcasting a select number of the games on the internet. Says the tournament organizer:  “It is my vision to get as many games involving teams from outside of NC on the broadcasts. Thus player’s parents, friends, officials and supporters can watch if they were unable to attend.  I will also be talking to a variety of local restaurants to replay the games on their TV screens so you can go as a team and watch the replay.”  

(ii)    The tournament will have a program which highlights each team. The program will be 8 ½ X 11 and in full color. The organizer will include a team photo, roster, and a short synopsis for each team. [We’ll take a photo at our January 7 meeting.]  Says the tournament organizer:  “If you have a sponsor that would like to buy space, the cost of a full page ad is $200 made payable to North Carolina Youth Rugby.  We will give your club $150 back as a way for you to generate revenue. Ads need to be submitted by January 15^th.”   

(iii)   A variety of college recruiters and possibly some Team USA representatives will be at the tournament.  

4.  BOYS TEAMS

We expect to field 4 boys sides this season.

a.       Varsity 1 (Plays Division 1)

b.      Varsity 2 (Plays Division 2)

c.       Junior Varsity (Plays B side matches)

d.      Under-14 (Plays in U-14 league)

Those who have been around a while, know that this is a meritocracy and that there is considerable player movement over the course of a season based on the performance of individual players.

Division 1:  Teams are all single-school high schools:  Unionville, Shanahan, Coatesville, Conestoga, Cumberland Valley, and Malvern

Division 2:  Teams are all single-school high schools:  Unionville, Shanahan, Cardinal O’Hara, Roman, and Valley Forge Military Academy.

Junior Varsity:  Each Division 1 team is required to have a full B side.  JV matches will be played immediately after the completion of the D1 match.

Under-14:  U-14 meeting will take place in January.  I’ll have more info then.

This year’s practice schedule is very similar to last year’s. 

We intend to start practice on JANUARY 15.  If, however, weather looks great during the Christmas break or on the 8^th or 9^th, I may call a special practice.  We’ll send email, use phone chain, and post on the website if this happens.

[Note:  Based upon actual sign-up numbers, in order to facilitate the development of each team, it may, on occasion, be necessary to ask some of the high school boys to practice at the earlier Saturday practice time.  We’ll do our best to give plenty of notice when this will occur.  All high school boys will ALWAYS be welcome at the regularly scheduled practice time.]

a.   Practice schedule from January to mid-March:

                Saturdays at Pocopson Elementary School:

10:00 to noon:  Middle School Boys (6^th through 8^th graders)

                Noon to 2 p.m.:  High school Boys (9^th through 12^th graders)

                2 p.m. to 4 p.m.:  High School Girls

Sundays at Pocopson Elementary School:

                Noon to 2 p.m.:  Middle School and High school Boys

                2 p.m. to 4 p.m.:  High School Girls

b.   Practice schedule from mid-March to end-of-season:

                Saturdays at Pocopson Elementary School:

10:00 to noon:  Middle School Boys (6^th through 8^th graders)

                Noon to 2 p.m.:  High school Boys (9^th through 12^th graders)

                2 p.m. to 4 p.m.:  High School Girls

a.  Boys Division 1 and B side (for League and Friendly matches)

Friday 3/11:                       Unionville vs. Virginia Tech Freshmen in Roanoke

Saturday 3/12:                   CHARLOTTE TOURNAMENT

Sunday 3/13:                      CHARLOTTE TOURNAMENT

Saturday 3/19:                   FRIENDLY:  Northeast Raiders at Kutztown University

Sunday 3/20:                      LEAGUE:  Cumberland Valley (AWAY)

Saturday 3/26:                   FRIENDLY:  ??? at Penn State University

Sunday 4/3:                        LEAGUE:  Conestoga (HOME)

Thurs 4/7:                            LEAGUE:  Coatesville (HOME)

Sunday 4/10:                      LEAGUE:  Shanahan (AWAY)

Thursday 4/14:                  MAKE UP DATE

Thursday 4/28:                  EPRU TOURNAMENT QUARTER FINALS

Saturday 4/30:                   EPRU TOURNAMENT SEMI FINALS

Sunday 5/1:                        EPRU FINALS

Sunday 5/1:                        PA State’s

Saturday 5/7:                     MARFU Championship

Sat and Sun 5/7-8:           PA State’s

Sat and Sun 5/14-15:       PA State Semi’s and Finals

Fri and Sat 5/20-21:         National U19 Club and High School Championships

b.  Boys Division 2 side

Friday 3/11:                       TRAVEL TO CHARLOTTE

Saturday 3/12:                   CHARLOTTE TOURNAMENT

Sunday 3/13:                      CHARLOTTE TOURNAMENT

Saturday 3/19:                   FRIENDLY:  Northeast Raiders at Kutztown University

Sunday 3/20:                      LEAGUE:  Roman (HOME)

Saturday 3/26:                   FRIENDLY:  ??? at Penn State University

Sunday 4/3:                        LEAGUE:  Valley Forge Military Academy (AWAY)

Sunday 4/10:                      LEAGUE:  Shanahan (AWAY)

Thursday 4/14:                  MAKE UP DATE

Thursday 4/28:                  EPRU TOURNAMENT QUARTER FINALS

Saturday 4/30:                   EPRU TOURNAMENT SEMI FINALS

Sunday 5/1:                        EPRU FINALS

That’s all for now.  We’ve got a great year ahead of us.  I hope you have wonderful holiday season.  I KNOW you’re going to have an outstanding rugby season.

Best regards,

Curt Baker

This is the FINAL REMINDER regarding Unionville Rugby's end-of-season banquet. 

And what a banquet it will be! 

DATE:  SATURDAY, JUNE 26 

LOCATION:  ANSON B. NIXON PARK  (See link to map for directions:  http://www.ansonbnixonpark.org/map.html) 

TIME:  ALUMNI GAME(S) START AT 3 P.M. ON THE ATHLETIC FIELDS.  WE'LL GATHER FOR THE BANQUET AT ABOUT 4:30 P.M. IN OUR PICNIC PAVILION. 

Plan for food: 

 For last names beginning with:

A to G ... bring a main dish

H to N ... bring a side dish

O to T ... bring a dessert

U to Z ... bring drinks (if possible bring drinks in some sort of cooler with ice) 

Of course, if there is any type of specialty that anyone would like to bring, I'm sure there will be many happy samplers.  Also, I, Coach Baker, will bring the last surviving grill if anyone would like to bring something to grill on site. 

PLEASE BRING LOTS OF FOOD.  I HAVE A HIGH LEVEL OF CONFIDENCE THAT LEFTOVERS WILL BE FEW AND FAR BETWEEN.  My wish is that everyone leave well fed. 

If you have any questions, or need further information, please let me know. 

I look forward to seeing you all on Saturday.  Let's make it a fitting conclusion to a great year of rugby. 

Curt Baker

NEWS RELEASE

Contact:          Don Ferrell, Director of Rugby,

                        814-867-1319

daf4@psu.edu

May 6, 2010                                                                            For immediate release

University Park, PA- Fresh off another highly successful season for their program which saw a 6^th National Championship for the women’s team, their first back to back, and a top 8 finish for the men’s team, the Penn State Rugby program is pleased to announce July 7^th through the 14^th as the dates for their 2010 Penn State Summer Rugby Camps.

July 7^th through the 11^th will be dates for the Rugby Academy. Building on their highly successful winter clinics for High School girls and boys, this 5 day coed rugby academy accommodates various age groups and skill levels, including beginners, and is designed to help players develop fundamental skills for playing more effectively as individuals and team members. Emphasis is placed on individual and positional skills, as well as team skills and concepts.

July 11^th through the 14^th will be the dates for our first Advanced Skills Camp – Backs/Forwards. This camp accommodates various age groups, but enrollment is restricted to experienced players. This camp takes the educational and athletic experience to the next level, with an emphasis placed on in-depth development of positional and unit skills. The advanced camp will provide campers with the time and coaching to really work on the latest skills, techniques, and concepts related to forward and back play.

Held on Penn State’s exquisite athletic facilities, these full blown PSU Sports Camps allows rugby athletes the very same opportunities and experiences that the attendees of any of the University’s 85 varsity sports camps receive.

Current and former players from both teams (including Eagles, All Americans, Super League and US Age Grade players) serve as coaches, and are a tremendous compliment to Penn State’s excellent coaching staffs and the many special invited guest coaches.

For Information and Registration details visit

http://www.psu.edu/dept/rugby/

http://www.outreach.psu.edu/psu-sport-camps/Rugby/

.

The Under-13 and Under-15 matches, scheduled for Sunday, May 16, have been cancelled.

Please find attached the final schedule for the U-13 and U-15 EPRU Tournament that will be held on MAY 23, 2010 at Cumberland Valley.

ALL PLAYERS (U-13 AND U-15) SHOULD BE AT CUMBERLAND VALLEY NO LATER THAN 1 HOUR BEFORE THE KICK-OFF TIME FOR THEIR FIRST MATCH.

UNDER 15 MATCHES:

11:45 a.m. -- Unionville vs. T/E Tigers (Field 1)

If we win, we play for the championship at 3:15 p.m. (Field 1)

If we lose, we play for 3rd place at 2:00 p.m. (Field 1)

UNDER 13 MATCHES:

10:30 a.m. -- Unionville vs. Downingtown (Field 2)

2:15 p.m. -- Unionville vs. Doylestown (Field 2)

All-Stars. 

There are two layers of All-Star play … Brandywine Division and EPRU.  There has been recent correspondence regarding both.  IF YOU HAVE AN INTEREST IN PLAYING ALL-STARS, PLEASE LET ME KNOW SO THAT I CAN GO THROUGH THE STEPS OF NOMINATING YOU.  

a.        Brandywine Division All-Stars.  (This is from two recent memos to coaches from Greg Karabin and Scott Brown, who organize the Brandywine Division All-Stars.)

     The Brandywine Division is planning to have a District All-Star team again this year.
 

       We will be asking each coach from the District (HS and Club) to send 3 players and $30 per player. 

Date to be determined.  Selection/practices will be at Shanahan.  

All players get a "Brandywine All Stars" jersey, but only the top 25 get a number. 

Matches with the Potomac Rugby Union and other districts will be arranged.  

This program will NOT interfere with the EPRU All Star Select Side Program run by Dan Currie.  

The District All Star program is designed to promote friendships among players in each District

and to allow for more players to participate in an All Star event. 

b.      EPRU All Star Select Side.  (This is a memo sent to all coaches by Dan Currie who is organizing the EPRU All-Star program.  I am a big supporter of this program – it is where my son Joe was first noticed, along with several other Unionville players.)

The EPRU Boys All Stars will be holding tryouts on Sunday, May 16th from 1-3 PM.The tryouts will be held at two locations: 

and 

The EPRU Boys All Stars are the LAU team that represents the EPRU in national events.It will participate in one of only four National LAU Tournaments held this year in the United States.  That event will be the Potomac Cup Challenge, to be held in Pittsburgh at Founders Fields the weekend of June 19-20, 2010. To be chosen and play in this event is an honor in any rugby union.Any union worth its salt should want it's best to complete.We certainly do in the EPRU. This tryout on May 16th is open to any player you nominate.In the spring season we have attempted to see as many high school matches as we could.At those matches we have identified players that should participate and spoken to them.We have also taken recommendations on Match Reports and followed up on them. We haven't seen everybody and that's where we need your help. The purpose of the two sites is to accommodate ALL of the teams in the EPRU.Both sites will allow players from State College Pa. to Cape May N.J. and points in between a reasonable location that is not too far from home.  It certainly is not too far a drive to be a better rugby player. 

Any player who wishes to participate has to FIRST complete the ALL STAR ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. This can be done by you or the candidates themselves. Here's how  to fill it out  the ALL STAR ONLINE APPLICATION FORM:

- Go online  to the EPRU website (www.epru.org) 

- On the left column click Forms

- Choose Boys High School All Star Player Information Form

- Complete all the information on the form.  Don't forget to add your CIPP number. ( The form can't be completed without a CIPP number. If players fill it out, let them know their number.) 

- Remember to fill out the block at the bottom of the form titled Parent/Guardian Contact Information.  Include the parent or guardian's telephone number AND email address.Also include  the player's   Date  Of  Birth (Month/Day/Year).  

- SUBMIT it.   It will go directly to me.   

Finally, May 16th may also be part of the EPRU State Championship.  We'll know by May 16th which teams may be participating.  Those players who want to participate in the EPRU Boys All Stars, that are in States on that day, will be given consideration to participate at a later date. 

However, ALL players who wish to be considered must have their  ALL STAR ONLINE APPLICATION FORM completed and received by May 3rd. 

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.That also applies to your players and their parents.                                                Thanks,                                               

Dan Currie

215-343-8767                                               

danielcurrie@comcast.net                   

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OUR TEAMS ON A GREAT, GREAT, GREAT STADIUM GAME EVENT

Under-15 Boys:  43-36 win over Doylestown

High School Girls:  26-0 win over Cumberland Valley

Under-19 Boys:  64-5 win over Media

Here's the schedule for this weekend ....

Saturday, May 1, 2010

10 to noon:  Under-13 practice at Pocopson

NO PRACTICE FOR UNDER-15

NO PRACTICE FOR UNDER-19

Sunday, May 2, 2010

No Under-19 boys matches

No Under-13 boys matches (however, U-13 players who want to play up with the Under-15 boys are welcome, indeed encouraged, to do so.  If you make the trip, you will get playing time.)

Under-15 boys:  Away LEAGUE MATCH vs. Hempfield.  Kick-off is at noon.  Players should arrive no later than 11:15.

Driving directions to Hempfield (which is playing at Warwick's pitch at Linear Park, 230 Market Street ; Lititz, PA) are shown below.  Travel time from Unionville High School is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes:

The entire Unionville Rugby family is invited to enjoy this year's "STADIUM GAME" event.  It is our showcase of rugby for the entire community.

Confirmed Schedule:

5:00:  Unionville Boys (U-13) Intra-Squad match 

5:30:  Unionville Boys (U-15) vs. Doylestown Boys (U-15) 

6:30:  Unionville Girls vs. Cumberland Valley Girls (LEAGUE MATCH)

7:45:  Unionville Boys (U-19) vs. Media Boys (NON-LEAGUE MATCH)

This truly is a showcase.  It is the night to bring your friends, neighbors, colleagues, folks you would like to meet ... anyone! ... to see rugby the way it is supposed to be done.

Please be sure to come.

1.  UPDATED AT 11 AM FOR UNDER 13 SIDE.  URGENT.  URGENT.  URGENT.

UNDER-13.  Both teams are short players due to the weather.  This match has been cancelled for today and (hopefully) will be rescheduled.

 2.  UNDER-15.  WEST SHORE HAS CONFIRMED THAT THE MATCH WILL BE PLAYED AS SCHEDULED.  Kick-off is at 1:00.  Players should arrive at West Shore at about Noon.

3.  GIRLS AND BOYS UNDER-19 WILL BE PLAYED AT THE UNIONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL STADIUM.  (WE WILL NOT BE A HILLENDALE TODAY.)

GIRLS KICK-OFF:  NOON

BOYS UNDER-19 "A" SIDE:  2:00 VS. NARBERTH

BOYS UNDER-19 "B" SIDE:  3:30 VS. WHITE HORSE

ALL BOYS PLAYERS SHOULD ARRIVE AT THE STADIUM AT 1 P.M.

IMPORTANT:  YOU CANNOT BRING COLORED DRINKS ONTO THE UHS STADIUM FIELD.  NO GATORADE, NO POWERAID, ETC.  YOU MAY ONLY BRING WATER.

Okay folks, we’re in the home stretch.  This memo sets out the schedule for the rest of the season. 

Also, for those high school boys who are interested in All Star play, introductory information appears at the end of this email.  PLEASE NOTE THAT THE EPRU ALL-STAR TEAM HAS AN APPLICATION DEADLINE OF MAY 3, 2010.

Schedule first.  Here’s what’s left for each team:

PRACTICES: 

Each team will continue to practice at Pocopson on Saturdays until its season is complete.

10:00 to noon:  Under 13 and Under 15 boys (through May 22)

Noon to 2 p.m.:  Under 19 boys  (duration is TBD) 

MATCHES:

Under-19 Boys 

Sunday, April 25 at HILLENDALE:

2:00 p.m.  … First side match vs. Narberth

3:15 p.m. … Second side match vs. White Horse

Friday, April 30 at UNIONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL (STADIUM GAME -- TENTATIVE):

6:00 p.m. … First side match vs. Media

Sunday, May 2 at HILLENDALE (REDEMPTION BOWL – INVITATIONS EXTENDED, WAITING ON CONFIRMATION):

2:00 p.m. … Unionville vs. the loser of the Shanahan vs. Bonner playoff match.  If this comes together, we’ll have both “A” and “B” side matches.

There may be a BRANDYWINE DIVISION tournament later in May.  Details have not yet been distributed.  I’ll let you know as soon as I know.

Under-15 Boys 

Sunday, April 25 at WEST SHORE (see directions on the website home page):

1:00 p.m. … League match vs. West Shore

Friday, April 30 at UNIONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL (STADIUM GAME -- TENTATIVE):

5:00 p.m. … Opponent TBD

Sunday, May 2 at HEMPFIELD:

2:00 p.m. … League match vs. Hempfield

Sunday, May 9 at HILLENDALE:

2:00 p.m. … League match vs. Doylestown

Sunday, May 16 at HILLENDALE:

2:00 p.m. … League match vs. Cumberland Valley

Sunday, May 23 likely at Cumberland Valley:

All day:  EPRU UNDER-15 TOURNAMENT

Under-13 Boys 

Sunday, April 25 at CUMBERLAND VALLEY (see directions on the website homepage):

3:30 p.m. … League match vs. Cumberland Valley

Friday, April 30 at UNIONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL (STADIUM GAME -- TENTATIVE):

4:00 p.m. … Opponent TBD

Sunday, May 9 at HILLENDALE:

3:30 p.m. … League match vs. Doylestown

Sunday, May 16 at HILLENDALE:

3:30 p.m. … League match vs. Cumberland Valley

Sunday, May 23 likely at Cumberland Valley:

(If team wishes to play) … match play vs. other U13 programs

OTHER STUFF YOU NEED TO KNOW: 

1.        End-of-season Banquet. 

This is the exclamation point that concludes each season.  It is in the early planning stages.  Stay tuned for dates.  Likely a late-May, early-June weekend date.

2.       Game Social.

Please continue to bring both food items and drinks to home matches.  This is a wonderful part of our rugby – I want to thank you for continuing the tradition in a big way this year.

3.       All-Stars.  There are two layers of All-Star play … Brandywine Division and EPRU.  There has been recent correspondence regarding both.  IF YOU HAVE AN INTEREST IN PLAYING ALL-STARS, PLEASE LET ME KNOW SO THAT I CAN GO THROUGH THE STEPS OF NOMINATING YOU.

a.        Brandywine Division All-Stars.  (This is from two recent memos to coaches from Greg Karabin and Scott Brown, who organize the Brandywine Division All-Stars.)

     The Brandywine Division is planning to have a District All-Star team again this year.
 

       We will be asking each coach from the District (HS and Club) to send 3 players and $30 per player. 

Date to be determined.  Selection/practices will be at Shanahan.  

All players get a "Brandywine All Stars" jersey, but only the top 25 get a number. 

Matches with the Potomac Rugby Union and other districts will be arranged.  

This program will NOT interfere with the EPRU All Star Select Side Program run by Dan Currie.  

The District All Star program is designed to promote friendships among players in each District

and to allow for more players to participate in an All Star event. 

b.      EPRU All Star Select Side.  (This is a memo sent to all coaches by Dan Currie who is organizing the EPRU All-Star program.  I am a big supporter of this program – it is where my son Joe was first noticed, along with several other Unionville players.)

The EPRU Boys All Stars will be holding tryouts on Sunday, May 16th from 1-3 PM.The tryouts will be held at two locations: 

and 

The EPRU Boys All Stars are the LAU team that represents the EPRU in national events.It will participate in one of only four National LAU Tournaments held this year in the United States.  That event will be the Potomac Cup Challenge, to be held in Pittsburgh at Founders Fields the weekend of June 19-20, 2010. To be chosen and play in this event is an honor in any rugby union.Any union worth its salt should want it's best to complete.We certainly do in the EPRU. This tryout on May 16th is open to any player you nominate.In the spring season we have attempted to see as many high school matches as we could.At those matches we have identified players that should participate and spoken to them.We have also taken recommendations on Match Reports and followed up on them. We haven't seen everybody and that's where we need your help. The purpose of the two sites is to accommodate ALL of the teams in the EPRU.Both sites will allow players from State College Pa. to Cape May N.J. and points in between a reasonable location that is not too far from home.  It certainly is not too far a drive to be a better rugby player. 

Any player who wishes to participate has to FIRST complete the ALL STAR ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. This can be done by you or the candidates themselves. Here's how  to fill it out  the ALL STAR ONLINE APPLICATION FORM:

- Go online  to the EPRU website (www.epru.org) 

- On the left column click Forms

- Choose Boys High School All Star Player Information Form

- Complete all the information on the form.  Don't forget to add your CIPP number. ( The form can't be completed without a CIPP number. If players fill it out, let them know their number.) 

- Remember to fill out the block at the bottom of the form titled Parent/Guardian Contact Information.  Include the parent or guardian's telephone number AND email address.Also include  the player's   Date  Of  Birth (Month/Day/Year).  

- SUBMIT it.   It will go directly to me.   

Finally, May 16th may also be part of the EPRU State Championship.  We'll know by May 16th which teams may be participating.  Those players who want to participate in the EPRU Boys All Stars, that are in States on that day, will be given consideration to participate at a later date. 

However, ALL players who wish to be considered must have their  ALL STAR ONLINE APPLICATION FORM completed and received by May 3rd. 

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.That also applies to your players and their parents.                                                Thanks,                                               

Dan Currie

215-343-8767                                               

danielcurrie@comcast.net                                

*************************************************************************************** 

DETAILS:  Potomac Cup

Challenge the weekend of June 19-20 in Pittsburgh. The EPRU will be entering two teams:U19 (born 1991 and 1992) and U17 (born 1993 or younger).  We will be staying at the Springhill Suites in Monroeville.The cost to participate in the 2010 All Stars that weekend will be $100.00.  It will cover hotel accommodations and meals.  We will get together for a Tryout Day in mid May (May 16th). Formal practices will be held in the June weeks leading up to the tournament. (again, exact dates to be determined).   

Driving directions to 3740 Cold Spring Creamery Rd, Doylestown, PA 18902 from Pocopson Elementary

54.5 mi – about 1 hour 4 minutes

NOTE:  THIS FIELD IS RIGHT NEXT TO A MUNICIPAL AIRPORT.  SOME GPS DEVICES (e.g., mine) seem to get messed up as you near the field.  Just don't stray from the airport and you'll find the field.

GOOGLE MAP DIRECTIONS:

Pocopson Elementary School 1105 Pocopson Road West Chester, PA 19382-7049 (610) 793-9241

1.	Head southeast on Pocopson Rd toward PA-926 W/W Street Rd		495 ft
2.	Take the 1st left onto PA-926 E/W Street Rd		0.3 mi
3.	Take the 2nd left to stay on PA-926 E/W Street Rd		2.6 mi
4.	Turn left at US-202 N/US-322 W/Wilmington Pike		1.5 mi
5.	Merge onto W Chester Bypass/US-202 N/US-322 W via the ramp to Paoli/Downingtown Continue to follow US-202 N		18.1 mi
6.	Take the I-76 W exit toward I-276 E/New Jersey/Harrlsburg		0.4 mi
7.	Keep left at the fork to continue toward I-76 W		0.3 mi
8.	Keep left at the fork, follow signs for I-76 W/Pennsylvania Turnpike/I-276 E/New Jersey/Harrisburg and merge onto I-76 W Toll road		0.5 mi
9.	Take the exit onto I-276 E toward I-476/New Jersey/Allentown Toll road		16.4 mi
10.	Take exit 343 to merge onto Easton Rd/PA-611 N toward Doylestown Continue to follow PA-611 N Partial toll road		13.0 mi
11.	Take the exit toward PA-313 S/Swamp Rd		0.2 mi
12.	Turn right at PA-313 S/Swamp Rd		0.7 mi
13.	Turn left at Cold Spring Creamery Rd Destination will be on the left		0.3 mi

3740 Cold Spring Creamery Rd Doylestown, PA 18902

Address:

3740 Cold Spring Creamery Rd

Doylestown PA 18902

Google Map:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&time=&date=&ttype=&q=3740+Cold+Spring+Creamery+Rd+Doylestown+PA+18902&ie=UTF8&z=16&iwloc=addr&om=1

I’m about to head north from Roanoke, so this will be quick and to the point.

Saturday Practices at Pocopson:

10 am to noon: Under-13 and Under-15 BOYS

Noon to 2: U-19 boys

Sunday matches:

U-13 boys: Away match at Doylestown. 4:30 p.m. kickoff. Players should arrive at 3:30 p.m., 1 hour before match time. (I will post directions when I get home, but expect travel time of just about 1 hour).

U-15 boys: This is the bye week for U-15. I STRONGLY encourage players to consider playing B-side with the U-19’s to get a good run.

U-19 boys: HOME match vs. Coatesville at Hillendale. 2:00 p.m. kickoff. PLAYERS SHOULD ARRIVE NO LATER THAN 1:00 P.M. Coatesville indicates that they will have sufficient players for a B-side match, which will follow immediately.

See you all at practice tomorrow.

Curt

This note is to provide an update on rugby activities over the next several days. 

1.     SATURDAY APRIL 3. 

The schools have asked that we limit field use over the next few days.  Consequently, I am cancelling practices for Saturday, April 3. 

2.     MONDAY, APRIL 5.

UNDER 19 Practice.  We will be practicing at Pocopson Elementary from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.  Under 15 players are welcome to join, but the focus will be on preparing for our Thursday match against Msgr. Bonner. 

3.     WEDNESDAY, APRIL 7.  (PARENT ASSISTANCE NEEDED!)

Field preparation at Hillendale Elementary.  This is where we find out how many otherwise-capable adults it takes to draw a big rectangle on a field.  (Not a parallelogram or a trapezoid.  A rectangle.)  Starting at 5 p.m., we will lay out our home pitch.  If you are able to assist, please join us for “Real Life Applications of Geometry.” 

4.     THURSDAY, APRIL 8. 

UNDER-19 LEAGUE MATCH.  UNIONVILLE VS. MSGR. BONNER AT HILLENDALE ELEMENTARY.  PLAYERS MUST ARRIVE BY NO LATER THAN 4 P.M.  KICK-OFF FOR THE VARSITY MATCH IS AT 5:00 P.M.  SECOND-SIDE KICK OFF WILL TAKE PLACE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE VARSITY MATCH CONCLUDES. 

If you are an Under-15 player and want some second-side experience, please let me know.  We’ll work you into the match. Under-13 and Under-15 players are strongly encouraged to attend. 

(PARENT ASSISTANCE NEEDED)

Donna Woislaw is working on coordinating the food for the game and am looking for some help.  Here is what we need:  

-       At least one grill, preferably two. If you are able to transport them, it would help tremendously.

-       At least two Grill master volunteers for the afternoon. Outside the rugby field, you will be the MVP of the day! -       Portable banquet/card tables,this includes dropping off and picking up if possible.

-       Volunteers to set up run/wrap/hand out food

-       Volunteers to clean up

-       Donations from Bakers (not the coach) and/or Shoppers of cupcakes, cookies, pretzels, veggie trays, and any other kind of snack imaginable. Our boys appreciate everything.   

-       Donations of vitamin-water, bottled water, Gatorade, soda...

-       Coolers or open containers to hold drinks and ice.  

Donna will shop for burgers and dogs along with relishes,mustard, ketchup ,etc.   

Just a reminder that we don't charge any money for our Rugby Social event.  As you may have noticed, this is very unusual and always appreciated. It is thanks to our Rugby Family that we can keep on Feeding the Fun!  

One more thing. Donna is looking for a person to help coordinate this event for the middle school boys teams.  Please e-mail Donna at  donna.woislaw@gmail.com and let her know how you plan to help.  

5.     SATURDAY, APRIL 10. 

PRACTICES AT POCOPSON

10:00 to noon:  Under-13 and Under-15

Noon to 2:00:  Under-19 

6.     SUNDAY, APRIL 11. 

ALL OF OUR BOYS TEAMS ARE AT HOME.  WE’LL WORK OUT KICK-OFF TIMES … BUT THE MATCHES ARE AS FOLLOWS: 

Under-13 vs. Downingtown

Under-15 vs. T/E Tigers

Under-19 vs. Conestoga 

LOTS OF PARENT ASSISTANCE WILL BE REQUIRED WITH GAME SOCIAL. 

As you can see, there’s a lot on our plate.  Exciting times.  Have a wonderful holiday weekend …  

Curt Baker

SUNDAY, MARCH 28

Under 13 and Under 15:  Due to about half our players being away on vacation, we have rescheduled the matches against Cumberland Valley to Sunday, May 16.  We should extend our thanks to the Cumberland Valley folks for their willingness to be flexible.  AS A RESULT, THERE ARE NO UNDER-13 OR UNDER-15 MATCHES THIS WEEKEND.

Note to Under 15's:   With our numbers down during spring break, I wanted to offer the under-15 (8th and 9th grade) players an opportunity to play in the high school "B" side match.  Our first side will be facing Rustin at Rustin.  Kick off is at 2 p.m.  The "B" side match will follow immediately after.  Rustin, too, is facing a "spring break shortage," and has invited West Chester East to join for the "B" side match.  I view this as a good opportunity for players who want a taste of the next level to give it a try.  If you are able to join, please arrive no later than 2 p.m.

Under 19:  UNIONVILLE VS. RUSTIN (LEAGUE MATCH).  2 PM. KICKOFF AT RUSTIN.  ALL PLAYERS ARE TO BE AT RUSTIN NO LATER THAN 1 P.M.  We will have 2 matches ... 1st side and a second side match.  In light of possible low numbers, players from West Chester East will also be there to make sure we can have sufficient players for an appropriate second side contest.

DIRECTIONS TO RUSTIN FROM UHS:

Start at:

Unionville High School

750 Unionville Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348         

1. Start out going SOUTH on UNIONVILLE RD / PA-82 toward MANOR DR.  (0.7 mi)

2. Turn LEFT onto STREET RD / PA-926.  (10.2 mi)  (You'll cross over 202)

3. Turn LEFT onto SHILOH RD.  (0.8 mi)

NOTE:  I'M TOLD THAT THERE IS A ROAD THAT RUNS AROUND THE SCHOOL.  THE PLAYING FIELD IS TOWARD THE BACK OF THE SCHOOL, UP ON A HILL.

End at:

Bayard Rustin High School

1100 Shiloh Rd., West Chester, PA 19382 

Total Travel Estimate : 11.62 miles - about 18 minutes 

The kick-off time for the Unionville vs. Shanahan U-19 match on Sunday, March 21, will now be at 3 p.m. at Bishop Shanahan.  The second sides for each program will play immediately after the completion of the first match.

ALL U-19 PLAYERS ARE TO BE AT BISHOP SHANAHAN HIGH SCHOOL AT 2:00 P.M. ON SUNDAY.

Directions to Bishop Shanahan from UHS:

NOTE:  Bishop Shanahan High School is very near the Downingtown Country Club.  The MapQuest directions below take you a back way.  Many of you may prefer to travel as if you are going to the Regal Downingtown Cinema or Wegman's.  Simply continue west past the shopping center Lancaster Avenue, then turn left onto Woodbine.  The entrance to Shanahan is well marked.

Start at Unionville High School

1.  Go NORTH on UNIONVILLE RD / PA-82 (stay on PA-82 after the roundabout).  1.2 miles

2.  Turn RIGHT onto EMBREEVILLE RD / PA-162.  Continue to follow PA-162.  5.5 miles

3.  Stay STRAIGHT to go onto TELEGRAPH RD.  1.1 miles

4.  Turn SLIGHT LEFT onto SUGARS BRIDGE RD 0.8 miles

5.  Turn SLIGHT LEFT onto DOWNINGTOWN PIKE / US-322.  Continue to follow US-322.  2.7 miles

6.  Turn RIGHT onto BOOT RD.  0.4 miles

7.  Turn LEFT onto CHESTNUT ST.  0.3 miles

8.  Turn RIGHT onto ACORN LN.  0.2 miles

9.  Turn RIGHT onto WHITELAND AVE.  0.0 miles

10.  Turn LEFT onto LINCOLN AVE.  0.3 miles

11.  Turn LEFT onto WOODBINE RD. 0.1 miles

12.  BISHOP SHANAHAN'S FIELD WILL BE VISIBLE FROM THE ROAD

BISHOP SHANAHAN HIGH SCHOOL IS AT 220 WOODBINE RD., DOWNINGTOWN, PA 19335

TOTAL DISTANCE:  12.85 MILES ... SHOULD TAKE ABOUT 25 MINUTES

The Unionville vs. Downingtown U-13 and U-15 matches will be played at Downingtown on Sunday. These matches will follow Downingtown's U-19 A- and B-side matches, which start at 1 p.m.

If all goes as planned, the U-15 match should start around 3:00 (but it is more likely to start a bit later). The U-13 match will immediately follow the U-15 match, probably between 4:00 and 4:15.

ALL UNIONVILLE U-15 PLAYERS SHOULD ARRIVE AT DOWNINGTOWN BY NO LATER THAN 2:00 P.M.

ALL UNIONVILLE U-13 PLAYERS SHOULD ARRIVE AT DOWNINGTOWN BY NO LATER THAN 3:00 P.M.

My strong preference is for the U-13 players / families to watch and cheer for the U-15's and vice versa.

DIRECTIONS TO DOWNINGTOWN'S PITCH:

Take Route 202 North.

Look for the Rt. 100, Pottstown Pike Exit.

Follow Rt