Rugby Rocks

The Bingham Cup is a fitting memorial to my pal Mark, who was killed on September 11th. Before the SF Fog Rugby team was formed, Mark was my only American friend into rugby and we talked about it often. While injuries have kept me away from playing, Mark played with the SF Fog for a year and he cherished the way his gay life and his rugby life were converging.

I was happy to serve as a volunteer on the first day of the tournament. I felt it was the best way to honor Mark's memory. I definitely felt closer to him throughout the day. I got a bit misty eyed several times as I watched parts of the 12 matches that day.

Alice ROCKS!

I think it was Martin Luther King Jr. who put forward the idea that who we are in the moment of our greatest challenge reveals our true character. Throughout the two day event, Mark's mum Alice met many people, gave interviews to the media, and watched many of the matches. It must have been challenging and bittersweet for her but through it all, she handled everything with aplomb and a rare, upbeat sense of grace. After spending some time with her, it was easy for me to see where Mark got his confidence and zest for life. I met Mark's mother, Alice and his aunt around lunch time. I wanted to tell them that I'm a better person for having known Mark, but it seemed too clichéd or corny and I got a bit shy so it was easier to talk about other things. As we talked, his mum smiled, and it was so identical to a smile I'd seen hundreds of times on Mark's face. It gave me a strong sense that life and love really are eternal even though they change forms through time.

The Bingham Plate

Alice presented a plaque called "The Bingham Plate" to the second place team, The Kings Cross Steelers.

I played with them before their second season, just a couple of practice sessions when I lived in London. Back then, they were mostly a drinking team that played rugby a bit so it was easy for me to drift away from them when I hurt my shoulder.

I was really glad to see how well they played in this tournament. I recognized only one guy on the team and obviously, they've recruited some top notch talent.

The Bingham Cup

Call it giving an exceptional effort for a fallen brother or a home field advantage, but the SF Fog won the day and received the Bingham Cup. As Alice presented the team with the trophy, there was some moisture escaping from the corner of my eyes, but it was windy and oh hell, I'll admit it, it was extremely moving to watch. I don't think anyone there could help but be touched by the experience. I was really proud of the team and it felt like the best way to cap off a wonderful tournament.

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