Everyone wants snow during the winter in Colorado, but it would be nice if the flakes would hold off once rugby season starts - but that hasn’t been the case so far this year.

The league has been slow to start, and fans were denied an early top-level clash between East HS and Regis Jesuit. But they did have games earlier this week, with Colorado Springs defeating Arapahoe, and PAC beating Chaparral.

“We were happy with the win,” said Colorado Springs Coach Otis McGregor. “The weather taxed the boys. We made a lot of mistakes and we have plenty of things to improve on. For four of our guys, this was their second game of rugby ever.”

The game was played in sub-freezing temperatures, with a sideways snow blown over the field. 

The weather is supposed to be nice for this weekend when the Grizzlies play Littleton, Fort Collins hosts Chaparral, and PAC visits Arapahoe. We won’t see Regis Jesuit in league action for another week.

After Saturday, Springs takes a break from league play to participate in the Heart of America tournament.

“We’re just looking for more game time,” said McGregor. “We’ve almost doubled the size of our roster since the 1st of March, and we need to get them on the field.”

The depth is a good thing, though. The Grizzlies are getting good athletes who know how to go forward. And, for the first time in a couple of years, McGregor has had to juggle the lineup to find the best mix of players - there is competition for 1st 15 places, and that’s never a bad thing. 

“They have a great a attitude,” said McGregor. “We have a lot of options, and the boys can’t get comfortable, which is good.”

Against Arapahoe, lock forward Beau Perry had an outstanding game, getting around the field nicely and showcasing a high work rate - just what was needed from a second row in wintry conditions. Loosehead prop Nico Vigil actually can play almost anywhere in the forward pack - versatility which helps McGregor in selections - and has an excellent nose for the ball.

In the backs, EJ Henry is just a smart player in the middle of the threequarter line. 

“He just plays smart,” said McGregor. “He’s not going to outrun anybody, but he makes good decisions, reads his options well.”

East HS has been idle in the DI league thanks to the weather since March 12, when they beat Fort Collins to go 4-0. It’s an impressive 4-0, but Regis Jesuit, and, of course, Colorado Springs, remain on the schedule.