Western Oregon Journal

Issue date: 1/28/09 Section: Sports

Tim Linn (ball-carrier) and Joe Boyd (2) move up the field in Saturday's game versus Seattle University.

Shawn Martin goes up high with the helping lift of teammate Tim Linn (3).

Surrounded by numerous players, Juan Elquezabal takes the ball up the field.

Coming off a hugely successful 2007-08 campaign, Western's men's rugby team burst out of the gate fast this season. The Wolves' record stands at an undefeated 8-0.
A lot of the credit for this year's success goes to co-captains Shawn Martin and James Holmes for their ability to recruit new players.
"(We have) rookies and a lot of depth," said Martin. "We did a lot of recruiting."
In addition to the new players, the Wolves returned all but two players from last year's team, according to Holmes.
"The back line is all returners," added Martin.
The team's size and depth has allowed for more opportunities to improve during practice.
"We have actually been able to do a lot of different drills," said Holmes. "We can (now) have full-sized rugby scrimmages and game simulation."
Naturally, the requirements to make the starting lineup are stricter due to the increased inter-team competition, which both Martin and Holmes agree is a good thing.
"We're a tough team," said Martin. "We do a lot more hitting (than in years past)."
"In four years, I've never seen any team this physical," echoed Holmes.
That toughness helped the Wolves achieve a win over rival Western Washington, who beat the Wolves last season.
"Our season high (so far) is starting 8-0 and beating the team that beat us last year," said Martin.
There have not been any real low points for the team this year, according to Holmes. "We've had a really positive season," he said.
Martin adds that if there was a low point, it was that "We lost three forwards to injury against Western Washington."
Holmes also gives Martin high praise for his play. "He has added leadership in the pack, something that's been lacking in the last four years," he said.
On Saturday, Jan. 24, Western defeated Seattle University 48-0 in an exhibition match.
Western's next match will be played at Cleveland High School in Portland on Feb. 14 against the Portland Pigs, a semi-professional team that consists of many Western alumni.
"It'll be a friendly match," said Holmes.

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