After last year’s challenging fall season, the 2026 fall season proved to be an important chance to right the ship. An exhaustive coaching search and a player recruiting blitz were among the many things the Executive Committee and player leadership tackled in the off-season. The men in charge of our great club did everything in their power to ensure that our match day results would improve. And they did.
As a fan and old boy, I certainly believe we can compete for a national championship each and every year. But this season had a more important goal. Simply put, right the ship. Steer it in the direction we need to go, and the winds will take us to our destination. After a grueling fall campaign that came just short Saturday in Utah, I am proud of the group of players, coaches and admin that set our ship in the right direction. Of course everyone wanted to win the league. I’m sure the players are still thinking about a play or two that could have swung the score in our favor. However, the important take away from this season is the team restored confidence in our ability to play with pride and properly represent the Barbo brand.
As we enter the off season, there are more things we can improve on. As a club, it is always our duty to continually raise money to allow the club to operate with a healthy budget. Our new Barbo Booster program is a great way to consistently donate an amount that makes sense for each individual who would like to help.
In addition to raising funds, we must meticulously plan out our spring schedule so we have a plethora of matches scheduled well in advance. We will rely on match secretary Brett DeBoy to lead the charge and begin making inquires now, before the new year.
Our recruiting chairs Conor O’Brien and Julian DeRaffele have their work cut out for them. With the game of rugby becoming more and more physical, we must recruit more props and locks. The tight 5 positions are physically demanding and often prone to injury during a grueling season. It is important that we BEGIN the season with 6 to 8 front rowers so that we can rely on our depth in the latter half of the year.
Lastly, our executives must pursue corporate sponsorships. Our partners at Bierstadt Lagerhaus and Steel Tips Bar have been reliable sponsors, yet we must continue to seek out other corporations in the Denver area to grow our presence in the community. With our new non-profit status, the sky is the limit. If you know of a company that is looking for sponsorships opportunities, get in touch with our vice president Jack O’Connor (info.denverbarbarians@gmail.com). You may just find your logo on a newly printed Barbo match kit!
A special thanks to everyone who rallied around the men in Green & White during this fall season.
As Always, Bleed Green.