BARBOS WIN 7’s QUALIFIER IN PARK CITY UTAH

After weeks of playing 7’s locally in Denver, the mountains were calling. And just like John Muir in the 1800’s, we were drawn to them. Originally scheduled to be played alongside the NAI tournament in Salt Lake City, the tournament location changed weeks prior, to the lovely ski valley of Park City Utah. Luckily, the raised elevation helped cool temperatures and created a dream environment to play high level 7’s.

The Barbo Hoops (1st side) was victorious at the end of the day, defeating Park City 40-0 in the final. Barbo Green (2nd side) went 2-2 on the day, and ended with an inspired 5th place win over the Utah Saints. Ian Wormer was a standout on the day. At just 18 years old, he’s seamlessly made the jump from high school rugby into a competitive men’s club environment. Lucky for Ian, his older brother Alex Wormer is a shining example of what happens when hard work meets talent. The two commented on the day’s events below …

Thomas LaMuraglia got the call up to the Hoops side after starting the season with the Green team. His consistency and passing under pressure helped his squad make the right plays at the right time. Campbell Johnstone was excellent moving the ball throughout the pitch and stepping into gaps when needed. He has logged some serious minutes throughout the summer, and has showed an ability to crank out 14 minute games.

Click Below to see Tommy, Brett DeBoy and Matt Frater reflect on the full day of 7’s …

Jack Miller (featured below) isn’t just known for his “out there” tattoos … he’s been a physical presence over the ball all season. The breakdown specific coaching from Ben Pinkelman last weekend seemed to directly translate onto the pitch. Players like Jack Miller, Devarius Miller, and Luca Tani contested many a breakdown, often causing Utah to commit more numbers to each ruck.

Although the Barbo Hoops went 4-0 on the day, the highlight victory was a dog fight of a game against Tanoa Rugby, a predominantly Fijian side. The two differing styles provided a much needed test fore the men in Green & White. Physical running, silky offloading, clever running angles and overall rugby ingenuity, the Tanoa Rugby match had it all.

The Barbos now look ahead to the big dance in two weeks. It takes a monumental effort to win a national championship. Tonight’s final team scrimmage will be telling. The lads have already put a massive effort forward all summer, but it’s up to them to double down and make this final summer month worth remembering for years to come.

Enjoy the videos, and thanks to head Coach Steve LaPorta and S&C Director Riglie Reeves for making the 48 hour trip to Utah.

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BARBOS NAME THEIR TOP SIDE FOR CLUB 7’S NATIONALS

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BEN PINKELMAN RETURNS TO HIS RUGBY ROOTS