As current president and player of the club I find myself in a very difficult and complex situation.  As a player I am frustrated like most of you are on the recent outcomes of our games.  I am asking the same questions and I have the same concerns.  As the president I can¢t help but feel responsible.  And as the President I feel the problems must be addressed.  The ENTIRE organization, from the Executive Committee, to the coaching staff, to the players, needs to be held accountable.  Several people approached me on Saturday with a variety of comments:

• Why are we losing??
• The team has no heart.
• Why are we playing so poorly??
• It seemed as if everyone gave up.

My response is that the change needs to come from within each individual.  We say that we want to win and that we care about the club.  But, I say to you, that the outcomes of our games are determined by the actions and in-actions of ALL of us.  What have you done lately to improve your game??  Do you come to practice??  Are you on time and ready to play??  Are you running on your own??  All of this is related to supporting your brother on the field.  Will you support me??  I will support you.

I was sick to my stomach yesterday b/c of Saturday¢s outcome and the way that we handled it.  I thought we were professionals.  I was humiliated with our actions on the field and on the flight home.  I even questioned why I ever started playing rugby and that brought me to write to you today.  It truly was a horrible feeling b/c I love you guys, I love Baltimore-Chesapeake and I love rugby more than anything in the world.  I don¢t ever want to feel like that again.

I have faith in the club and I hope that we can turn this season around.  BUT, GENTLEMAN, FAITH AND HOPE ARE NOT STRATEGIES!!  I AM NOT GIVING UP!!

I am asking everyone associated with Baltimore-Chesapeake Rugby:  What are your goals for the rest of the season??  And how will you accomplish them??  Do these goals correlate with the team¢s goals??  Think about it and show your teammates on the field...b/c your actions will determine the outcome for the rest of the season.