We have recently acquired a transfer student from the St. Cloud State University. Aaliyah was a member of the Bennie Rugby team in the fall. However, due to being a student from another college she could no longer participate with us in the spring. But that did not discourage Aaliyah. Amidst all her previous commitments, she remained an example of support and consistency for our women's team. She coaches youth rugby in Sartell, she participates in Big Brother Big Sister events, she is a staple of positive influence on her family and friends. And I won't forget to mention an experienced front rower who is not shy about the physicality of rugby.
As a coach, these are the players you hunt high and low for. An immediate impact on the field with the actions that support quality character and leadership. Aaliyah impressed me all season with her ability to be on the team given an unfavorable circumstance. She persevered. When we spoke about her transfer and if that opportunity could come to fruition, it almost felt like a 5% chance. Aaliyah decided to go against the odds to suit her desire for education and experience while getting her nursing degree. Anyone involved in CSB knows how competitive the nursing program is. She defied the odds with class and her reputation as a person left a lasting impression with admissions. It took some time, she jumped through some hoops and by the grace of God, she was accepted and committed before our spring semester would end!
In the Fall, our CSB Rugby team finds themselves back into the "Competitive Division". The road will be tougher, and wins will be tougher to come by. But we are equipped! Our women know the demands Coach Cub and me are asking of them. We discussed and identified the areas of growth we need to be better in the fall. This team has risen from the dark ages post COVID and are in the best position since to be competitive.
This past weekend we had our annual alumni match. The alumni showed the current Bennies how it's done. The greatest skill of rugby is experience. With the likes of many alumni from the years of 2013-2015, we had a great match with a lot of good laughs, high fives, and some awesome tries. It is crucial that we continue to find opportunities to have their support. I'd even take a few of them for the 5th year eligibility right now! But I believe in the power of influence and the alumni set a great example on and off the field. We are grateful they took time to be around our team and share their experience as Bennies and their new professional lives. Many of them cut into Mother's Day plans to go rough it up with their old team. They will play a pivotal role in our success moving forward.
The best is yet to come!
Coach Nate
