THE “FANTOMES” COMPLETE AN UNBEATEN ROAD TRIP TO START THEIR SEASON

“If you build it they will come”. Nestled among the rural coastline of San Luis Obispo lies one of the most pristine rugby fields the eye can behold.

Part of the five hour trek for California Maritime’s rugby team included a major navigational feat through meandering farm roads and dirt tracks to eventually find the playing fields of Arroyo Grande Rugby Club. The field was perfect, privately made and privately owned as one had the feeling that we were arriving at some Hollywood set.

Arroyo Grande are a new team in California coached by ex “All Black” (New Zealand International) Richard “Deans” a fact that became evident in Arroyo Grande’s hard hitting style of play.

The first of two games started on Saturday at 2pm as “The Fantomes” a little stiff after their long car ride took a little time to get into the flow of their game taking a quick 5 point deficit after a lucky interception from Arroyo Grande.

The “Fantomes” were relentless in defense. Hard hitting tackles from their backs and tremendous pursuit from their forwards soon put the Fantomes on the “offensive” with a score of their own from winger Jason Watson who out ran the Arroyo Grande defense to score Cal Maritimes first “try” of the season. A conversion kick by Joe Hiraoka made the score 7 - 5 .

It was a hard fought “smash mouth” type of game but with another score from Cal Maritimes Justin Meyer the “Fantomes” won the game 11 - 10 proving that dedication and hard work are the keys to becoming a successful program.

FINAL SCORE Cal Maritime 11 Arroyo Grande RFC 10

GAME 2
Game two brought the introduction of Sheila Maude Cal Maritimes first female rugby player to the fore front. Even though game two was supposed to be a friendly training session the intensity of the game was heightened by the opposition who clearly wanted to avenge the proceeding days loss.

A number of “ringers” were brought in on the “Arroyo Grande” team but the Fantomes again showed great courage and defense to hold on to a draw and remain “unbeaten”.

It was a wonderful weekend, one that truly exemplified team spirit and comradery. Even the hotel in which the team stayed indicated that they never had such a well behaved team stay with them before.

Coach Paddy Shrimpton and Coach Peter Mc Groarty expressed with great pride their teams victory. “The win is certainly a great boost to the program but what is more important is the teams character and work ethic which is a credit to them and to the college”.