Severn River Rugby Club’s annual banquet on January 17 was nothing short of dazzling. With a Kentucky Derby theme, the Byzantium in Annapolis was transformed into a spectacular venue that perfectly set the tone for the evening. The event was a true reflection of the dedication and creativity of social chairs Nykyla Malinosky and Alex King, whose hard work brought every detail to life.

The night featured several standout moments, including the recognition of both the men’s and Honey Badger teams receiving well-deserved honors. The Unsung Hero Awards were presented to Ryan Kivitz and Nykyla Malinosky this year. Ryan took on the monumental task of leading the club’s Ravens fundraiser, while Nykyla—on top of planning the banquet—continues to be a constant source of encouragement and leadership, setting the standard both on and off the pitch.

The Honey Badgers and the men’s team each presented their coaches with gifts as a small token of appreciation for all their hard work and dedication. Huge thanks to coaches Dolla Harmse, Johnethan Dumond, and Jeff “Tiny” for the Badgers, and Coach William Delsing, Jon Holtzman, Mike Posko, Mark Slifer, and Brett Shoemaker on the men’s side.

This year’s prestigious YAD Award was claimed by Maria Russo for the second time, further cementing her impact on the club. And fully leaning into the Kentucky Derby flair, Kate Schaefer walked away with the new BOD Best Dressed award.

The SRRFC Hall of Fame also welcomed four new inductees: Mike Anderson, Candace Coston, Dewey Meeter, and Ed Stump, each officially enshrined for their lasting contributions to the club’s rich history.

The celebration carried late into the night as players and alumni headed downtown to Stan and Joe’s for more drinks and camaraderie. With so many generations of Severn River Rugby represented in one place, it was the perfect setting to keep the party going.

As Severn River Rugby’s annual banquet continues to grow in importance—drawing current players, alumni, and club legends from near and far—anticipation is already building for next year. With the Honey Badgers celebrating 20 years this season and the club’s 50th anniversary right around the corner, expectations are high for another unforgettable celebration filled with camaraderie.

Award Summary:

Honey Badger Awards:

Most Valuable Back- Annie Lee

Most Valuable Forward- Annie Potter

Steel Tits- Fallon Migliorini

Rookie of the Year- Haley Addiss

Unsung Hero- Nykyla Malinosky

Most Improved- Courtney Rager

MVP- Kale Carter

Men’s Awards:

Most Valuable Back D3- Cameron Neilon

Most Valuable Forward D3- Ben McCathy