Royal Air Force Molesworth Maulers "kick-off" second season

  • Published
  • By Melony Angelilli and Anthony Triola
RAF Molesworth --  The Molesworth Maulers rugby team kicked off their second season last Saturday in a hard fought match against the Biggleswade Rugby Club. The teams were tied 10-10 at the end of the first half. The Maulers launched a late attack, but lost the match 34-17. Their next game is this Saturday against the Thorney Vets in the village of Thorney (postcode PE6 0PB) about 8 miles east of Peterborough off the A47. The game begins at 3:00p.m. and is free of charge.

Anthony Triola, the team's coach and starting hooker, has trained the team since August 2009. The hooker is a key position in attacking and defensive play and the name is derived from the fact that hookers use their feet to 'hook' the ball.

"This team is dedicated to the game and our players have given their all to learn the game, get fit and get mentally prepared for the season," Triola said. "The biggest part of the game is being in support of the guy to your right and to your left and as members of the military, some have served in combat and totally understand this concept."

Playing against British teams is the key to the Maulers' understanding of the game. Assistant Coach, Ahrin McCoy, said, "the British teams are very forthcoming with the legacy of the game and are always willing to give us tips to play better rugby."

When asked about the challenges of the game, Inside Center, Farijah St.Clair, stated, "One of the things I noticed immediately is that the game is constant movement; there are no downs and no stoppage of play." He continued, "The game is almost a mix of American football and soccer."

"It was amazing seeing all the Maulers fans out there and it will be even better as our fan base grows this season," said Outside Center, John MacMurray. "Our fans are the 16th Man on the field... they pump us up."

The team practices three times a week both on the field and in the gym. The new season just started and runs until May 2011. The Maulers are always looking for new players and will teach anyone the game of rugby. They also have a new booster club and welcome new fans.

If you are interested in joining the team or would like more information contact Triola at DSN 268-1835, or email anthony.triola@jac.eucom.mil.