The Denver Barbarians looked to continue their momentum in the spring season as the team sent two squads down to Colorado Springs to do battle with the Grizzlies. The hour drive south was pleasant and smooth as teammates locked down car pools to increase travel efficiency. My carpool was blessed with the presence of this year’s skipper, Steve Karas. He’s got a calming demeanor … unless he’s running a crash ball right at you. Then, he’s scary (see above).

As the first team warmed up and prepared for battle, we had the pleasure of checking in with our club’s General Manager Michael “Rugger” Pisney. In his new role, Mr. Pisney is helping the team’s bottom line and handling all matters fundraising and budget. As second generation rugger, he speaks the language of the game, and values a strong club culture above all else. His experience is insurmountable. His front office savvy is impeccable.

He shared his thoughts (above) on the current trajectory of the world’s greatest rugby club, your Denver Barbarians …

When the teams took the pitch, the Barbos struck early. Inspired by the play of veteran prop Marco DeGuire, the forwards had themselves a day in the wide channels, working the ball tirelessly across the pitch. Savvy running lines, and fluid communication in support lead to a wave of early tries, by halftime, the score favored the Barbo 39-0. The only let down in the first half was the inconsistency off the kicking tee. The Barbos were 2/7 on conversions in the first half.

Rookie Luka Pavlakis (ball carrier) has grown immensely under the tutelage of Veteran Eric Sykes (in support).

More points were scored in the second half, as a barrage of tries continued to rain down at Flanagan Park. The goose egg was spoiled in the 70th minute as the Colorado Springs Grizzlies got the ball across the line for their sole try of the match.

Final Score: Denver Barbarians 65 - Colorado Springs Grizzlies 7

Tries: Gabe Bram (2x), Steve Karas, Luca Tani, Tyler Grant, Ryan Walker, Eric Sykes, Alex Wormer (2x), Marco DeGuire, Luka Pavlakis