Club History

Black Ice: The Name

The name Black Ice was envisioned to represent apprehension, awe, hidden power, surprise, unspoken control, and something uniquely Coloradan. In every match, we attempt to live up to the spirit of the name. Whether it be the full force of our pack bearing down on the unsuspecting opponent or the sleek moves of our back line. We plan to command respect from our rivals for future meetings. Black Ice demands recognition or one may crash and burn from lack of awareness. In all opportunities we intend to fully represent this wonder of nature and to give Colorado the respect it so deserves.

Black Ice: History and Organization

Black Ice was born in the summer of 1991 by a dedicated few: Nealette Thomas, J.J. Graham, Kim Schroeder, and Dawn Comstock. These four women were looking to expand rugby in the state of Colorado. Initially, their goals were to provide more competition, plus, promote a positive athletic experience for women of all ages, background, abilities, and commitment levels. They emphasized fun and the love of an unique sport.

In the fall of 1991, Black Ice played its first "unofficial" season in order to establish financial securities and become an organization prior to entering the Eastern Rockies Rugby Football Union(ERRFU). This original team lacked experience, but not the desire nor the will to compete.

In January of 1992, Black Ice officially became members of ERRFU. The team also acquired its first benefactor, Nancy Briley. Ms. Briley made it possible for the team to purchase its first set of jerseys. The jerseys are Turquoise and Black.

Following the 1992 fall season, Black Ice had accomplished remarkable things as a team. In the spring of 1992, a second place finish, in its first tournament, was recorded. In the fall of 1992, seven athletes were selected to the 'Colorado Select Sides' honors. Two of those seven athletes went on to be chosen to the 'western Select Side Players'. In the spring of the 1993 season, the team finished fifth out of eight in its territory region. This was accomplished under the direction of South African Coach Mr. Kim Riley-Hawkins. The level of play soared at a rapid rate with the patience and wisdom of Mr. Riley-Hawkins, eventually leading to a very successful 1993 fall season. It was at this time, in the history of Black Ice, that eight athletes were selected to the 'Colorado Select Side', four to the 'Western Developmental Select Side', four to the 'Western Senior Select Side', and two to the Eagles National Team.

In 1994, Black Ice acquired Mr. Ransom "Ram"Eddings as the Head Coach. His experience as a "rugger" was with the Grey Wolves, a well established team originating in Georgia. While under his direction the team sent ten athletes to represent the 'Western Developmental Squad' in the annual New Orleans Mardi Gras Tournament.

In 1996, the Team then acquired Head Coach, Kim Chick, a seasoned player from California. Through the direction of Kim Chick, the team has continued to grow. In the Spring of 2000 Kim lead the team to another fifth place finish at Territorials.

Fritz Runge followed as head coach of Black Ice during the Fall of 2000 to the Fall of 2001. His time has been split over ten years of both playing rugby and coaching.

Today, Black Ice is coached by Bob Herrell and Maria Castillo (affectionately called the "Two-headed Monster"). The coaches are taking the team to greater heights with their banging and rucking style of play. At this years Territorials, in Little Rock, AR. Black Ice finished fifth with a strong showing.