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NEWS | July 31, 2008

Andrews members build comradery through rugby

By Airman Katie L. Justen Capital Flyer staff writer

Servicemembers stationed here are playing for the Pax River Rugby team this fall.

Currently, four members hail from Andrews Air Force Base, including Lt. Col. Robert B. Post, 1st Helicopter Squadron assistant director of operations, and Master Sgt. Justin C. Thomson, 316th Security Forces Squadron plans and resources NCO in charge. 

The rugby team is part of the Potomac Rugby Union, which consists of teams from Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C. 

"The best thing about rugby is the teamwork and the sportsmanship that is associated with the game," said Colonel Post. 

The play of the sport is similar to a mix of many others, such as football and soccer, said Sergeant Thomson.

"There is both a men's and women's team, and there are also many different players. We have Marines, seamen, Airmen, soldiers and civilians all playing side-by-side," said Sergeant Thomson. 

A rugby team's success depends on the interconnectedness of the players, not one single athlete running the show, said Sergeant Thomson. 

"We are not all just a bunch of toothless brutes," said Sergeant Thomson. "We want to show people that this is a sport of skill." 

Colonel Post added, "The best thing about Rugby is the chivalry that exists between the players and even between members of opposing teams." 

For more information about becoming a member, call 732-492-9760 for the men's club, and 240-577-5966 for the women's club, or via email at paxrugby@yahoo.com.