Short history of USNA Rugby

In my notes, I have that Jim Sims, Col., USMC and a graduate, was part of the start of the team, as I believe he was stationed there in 1969-71. But what follows is a history that predates the late 60s....

From Frank Corah: "I found Prof. Buffum's history s[ee below after all the pictures] fascinating because those of us who had the privilege of playing in the sport he instigated at the academy had no idea of his struggle to make it happen. I can add some details and photos."

Team shot of the first "Exhibition Rugby Team" in 1963 which beat the Brits from Dartmouth June week of 63. Kneeling, L to R: Bob Friedrick, Judd Halenza, Jay Fyfe, Louis Adriasola (team captain from Chile), ???, and John aka JJ O’Dwyer, Standing, L to R: Lt. Paul Fournier, Frank Corah, ???, ???, ???, ???, ???, ???, Don Bonsper, Ron Bancroft, Prof. William Buffum, Paul Revak

Frank Corah contesting the ball against the Baltimore Rugby Club May 5, 1963. On the right giving chase is Bob Friedrick. We hung in there for the first half trailing by 10-5, but lost 28-5 when their superior kicking game wore us out.

Don Bonsper, number 40, in the same game with scrum half Judd Halenza trying to clear the ball. That year we also played the Washington Rugby Club on May 12, 1963 winning 23-3.

Add Mr. Duckworth at the front row left

Spring 1965 and NEW uniforms

Back row, third from left - Ron Bancroft; 2nd row on left, Judd Halenza; front row, 3rd from left - Bob Friedrick.

# 10 Bonsper, #2 Frank Corah, At the front of the lineout is Ron Bancroft

#10 is Don Bonsper, Frank Corah is to the right, Judd Halenza kicking at the ball