In the hallowed halls of Severn River Rugby, where tales of grit, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments echo through the years, one name stands out – Bobby DeStefano. After 25 years of dedicated service, Bobby takes his rightful place in the Severn River Rugby Hall of Fame - a testament to his outstanding contributions as a player, leader, and ambassador of the sport.
Bobby's journey with Severn River Rugby is nothing short of extraordinary. A cornerstone of the team for a quarter of a century, he seamlessly transitioned through various roles, leaving an indelible mark on the club's history. His prowess on the field was matched only by his leadership off it. Bobby's commitment to the game went beyond playing; he served as President, Coach, Director of Practice, Captain, and Selector. His multifaceted involvement showcased not only his love for the sport but also his dedication to its growth and success.
The accolades in Bobby's rugby repertoire are as diverse as they are impressive. His tenacious spirit and skillful play earned him multiple prestigious awards, including the coveted "Derby" award for Most Valuable Forward – not once, but twice. His ten years of donning the sevens side jersey showcased his versatility and commitment to the game's dynamic form, culminating in the prestigious "Golden Sevens" award for the best Sevens player. However, Bobby's journey wasn't without its quirks; he also claimed the ignominious YAD award, showcasing a sense of humor and humility that endeared him to teammates and opponents alike.
Bobby wasn't just a local hero, he was a globetrotting rugby enthusiast. Bobby's journey with Severn River Rugby became a passport to unforgettable experiences. Scoring the winning tries at the Atlantic Cup against Washington Irish, with a crucial assist from Mike Posko, and leaving an indelible mark during tours in England and Ireland are memories that Bobby holds dear. His on-field prowess extended to championship matches in the Eastern Rugby Union, with battles fought and victories celebrated in Philadelphia, Columbia, South Carolina, and Mobile, Alabama.
Bobby's commitment to rugby wasn't limited to the traditional formats; he embraced the exhilarating world of Seven A-side Tournaments and played a vital role in Severn River Rugby's national championship attempts in Rugby 15's. His legacy extends beyond personal achievements, as he was instrumental in bringing the Sevens coach into the executive committee, solidifying the club's commitment to excellence and growth.
As a fearsome loose forward for the majority of his career, Bobby's aggressive play style was a hallmark of Severn River Rugby's dominance on the field. Toward the twilight of his career, he seamlessly transitioned to the hooker position, showcasing not just his adaptability but also the wealth of experience that defined his rugby journey. Bobby's background in elite-level wrestling lent him unparalleled balance and leverage, making him a force to be reckoned with in securing possession for his team.
One of the most cherished memories etched in Bobby's rugby legacy was being named the Man of the Match in his final game, a moment made even more special with his son's presence on the sidelines. It was a fitting tribute to a player whose contributions extended far beyond statistics.
As Bobby DeStefano takes his place in the Severn River Rugby Hall of Fame, it is not just an individual honor but a celebration of an era, a journey, and a commitment to the spirit of rugby. His legacy is etched not just in the trophies and awards, but in the hearts and memories of teammates, opponents, and rugby enthusiasts who were fortunate enough to witness the greatness of Bobby "D."
SRRFC Hall of Fame Class of 2023-2024 Inductee: Bobby DeStefano
