End-of-year Season Wrap Up

Another season under our belts, what an interesting year it’s been. Standing in the dark, on a cold January winter evening, watching a hungry Erikslund team fighting the freeze and fatigue that so often accompanies those late night winter sessions.

Who knew it would turn out to be an accurate depiction of our season?

When times got tough, we just dug that much deeper, finding the strength to fight through a tough season as was clearly on display when 14 men held a full Hammarby squad to their own 22 for over half of the game! 

Both our forward pack and back line saw some major shifts coming into the new season, with a majority of players stepping up to fill roles with which they had little experience. Adding to the positional mismatch, new attacking and defending styles of play were introduced. It was clearly a lot to take on. However, as the first whistle of the season blew, it became clear the team had done their homework. Defensively our pressure, speed and aggression caught our opponents off guard while our attacking play - especially toward the end of the season - began to mold into a fast-paced, expansive rugby style exposing our opponents’ weak points before they themselves could recognize them. 

Although we may feel a little disappointed at this season’s outcome, it’s important to remember that we’ve learnt some valuable lessons this year all while building our base to come back even stronger next year. One of the great things about this game is there is always room for improvement. We all get the opportunity to grow and develop both on and off the pitch and, when everyone does that, the results can be truly amazing.

Before we officially close out this season, I’d like to acknowledge all the support staff. Our management: without all the hard work being done in the background, the work on the field would never be seen! A massive thanks to our team doctor, Amy Valter: the knowledge and care shown to the team has kept us playing through bumps, bruises and all sorts. Anyones who’s ever played rugby knows the worth of a good team doctor! A big thanks to the Senior Men’s support team, who’ve helped guide, educate and support the Erikslund mission. And lastly, the players: you lads turned up rain, shine, snow or on those “cold” summer days. The strength and determination shown by each and everyone truly showed me what the Erikslund spirit is. As the late great Strength Coach, Louis Simmons, would say, “Weak things brea,” and this season showed us all: it’s going to take a hell of a lot more to break Erikslund.

Erikslund Rugby - We grow together!

Christian Futschik

Head Coach