2007 Rugby Rage | USQRA National Tournament | Mountain Sectionals | Mile High Massacre  Seeking the Heat  15th Coloplast International | 2006-07 Season Wrap Up
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Event Archives

Harlequins Take Second at the U of A Rugby Rage

The Harlequins came into this season knowing every time they took the court the other team would be fired up and be looking to knock off the champs. With Ross Morrison not returning this year, Josh Stapen stepped into the starting role with the other three veteran starters, Jason Regier, Chance Sumner, and Adam Scaturro.

Friday started out with a game against a rebuilding Phoenix team. The team came out strong and cruised to a 14 point win. The late game against the Sin City Skulls went the same, a 15 point victory for the Harlequins. Both games got considerable contributions from the bench playing more than half of each game. The games also showed the rise of the new female star of Quad Rugby, Joy Rondeau.

Saturday started out with a game against the host team, the University of Arizona. The Harlequins had beaten the Wildcats just three weeks prior at the Best of the West tournament. They are a much improved team that likes to use their speed to out-run opponents. Pumped up by the home fans Arizona took a 4 point lead into half time. In a great back and forth game Denver pressured Arizona into 8 turnovers in the second half while giving up only 1. When the final buzzer blew it was a 49-44 Denver. The second game brought Michigan. Denver jumped out with a quick lead and didn’t let up. Another 15 point win for the Harlequins.

Sunday was the rematch. U of A vs. Denver for the championship. U of A came out fired up. They used their speed to grab a quick lead. Denver kept fighting back but the Wildcats answered each time. Denver came up short in the end and ended up with a second place finish.

Along with a second place trophy Jason Regier and Chance Sumner were voted to the all tournament team.  Click here for more info
 

USQRA National Tournament in Louisville, KY
April 20-22, 2007

The Denver Harlequins came into the 20th USQRA National Championship ranked 3rd, based on their pre and post season play. The Harlequins best previous finish was 5th in Division 1.

Friday saw the Harlequins start out slowly in their opening game against the Chicago Bears. After the first quarter, the Harlequins were trailing by a point. Thing quickly changed and the Harlequins opened up a strong lead. Developing players, Josh Stapen, Joy Rondeau, Ron Bolseth and David Benson finished out the game, 55-37. In the afternoon, we faced the University of Arizona Wildcats in their first ever Division 1 appearance at Nationals. Again, the entire bench had playing time, winning comfortably 48-38. Friday night was the USQRA annual banquet.

On Saturday, the competition was stepped up, playing against defending champions, Phoenix Heat. The Harlequins played strongly in the first quarter, but in the second quarter the momentum favored the Heat. At half-time, the Harlequins were down by 4 points. Playing smart, the Harlequins backed off in the fourth quarter, saving their strength for the next game.

Each division at Nationals contains eight teams, divided into two pools of four teams each. The first three games are against the members of your pool. Our pool played as expected. Division 1, pool B went anything but expected. The #4 seeded Portland Pounders beat #2 seeded Lakeshore Demolition. Our fourth match pitted us against the Pounders. The Pounders were unable to put their speed to good use against the strong defense of the Harlequins. Pressing in the backcourt caused several turnovers by the Pounders, leading to a 47-42 victory.

The stage was now set for the Harlequins first ever finals appearance. Our rival were the Lakeshore Demolition who have appeared in the last ten final match-ups and the National champions for five years. Lakeshore won the tip-off, but like the game against Portland, strong pressure in the backcourt caused numerous turnovers. Lakeshore tried two different lineups, but could not figure out how to defeat the strong Harlequin defense. At halftime, the Harlequins were up by five points. A few turnovers in the third quarter threatened to rattle the composure of the Harlequins. After settling down, the Harlequins played strongly in the final quarter. Emotions were running high as the final seconds ticked down. The buzzer rang giving the Harlequins their first ever National Championship, winning 47-45. High-fives, hugs and smiles all around as we received the coveted Mikkelson Cup.

In addition to winning the National Championship, the Harlequins dominated the All Tournament Team awards. Jason Regier won best 0.5 class; Adam Scaturro best 1.5; Ross Morrison best 2.5; and Chance Sumner winning the tournament MVP.

Way to go Harlequins!
 

Mountain Sections Salt Lake City, Utah
March 2007

The Denver harlequins headed into the Mountain Sectionals knowing a Division I birth would mean beating the Texas Stampede. This primary goal of the weekend would come to a head on the first day of competition. We had Pasadena to take care of first though. Pasadena was out-matched in most of the game as the starters opened an 11 point lead after the first quarter. Josh, Dave and db all saw plenty of court time and gained valuable experience. Importantly, it gave Ross, Chance, Jason and Adam time to rest a bit as we had back-to-back games, with Texas to follow. We cruised to a victory beating Pasadena by 26 points, 55-29. This set the stage and our momentum for Texas.

The season had come down to this game. It started with us trading goals, the score tied. Then Texas got the first turnover and the momentum. In fact, Texas held the lead in the game for the entire first half. It wasn’t until a much needed halftime of composure and gut checks that the game turned. We came out the second half on fire. Our defense got tighter. Transitions were quicker. Chair positions and endurance were keys to causing numerous Texas turnovers which Denver was gladly to convert on, increasing the lead in the fourth quarter. We accomplished our first goal, beating Texas 51-44 and ensuring a Division I birth.

The next day we had Utah and San Antonio. Again, the starters came out, dominated, then it was time for the subs. The whole bench gave great performances in these games, winning them easily. It was a day off of sorts for the starters. A good thing knowing Phoenix was up Sunday in the tourneys finale. This final game was much like the Texas game, except once Phoenix got momentum, they never gave it back. We never lead in the game as Phoenix showed why they are going into National ranked #1. We lost the game 50-47, but put ourselves into good position for our ultimate goal, to win a National Championship!
 

Mile High Massacre
February 17th, 2007

The 2007 Mile High Massacre was a huge success! Thanks to all our fans, new and old, who turned out to cheer on the home team and see what wheelchair rugby is all about. This tournament was made possible by an amazing set of volunteers.

At this year’s Mile High Massacre, the Denver Harlequins focused on their developing players by splitting their team in half, so everyone would get plenty of playing time. The Phoenix Heat split their team as well and rounded out their roster with players from the University of Arizona Wildcats. The up and coming Chicago Bears brought their full squad. At the last minute the Utah Scorpions backed out, leaving a last minute opening. This spot was filled by players from Florida and California making up the WildCard team.

The tournament started out with a tough match between the Bears and Phoenix Red. This set the tempo for some tight and exciting games. Just because the Denver squad is used to scrimmaging together, doesn’t mean they play gently. The home team’s opening game gave the fans plenty to cheer for.

Saturday's morning match-up of the Denver White vs. Chicago Bears had the fans on their feet, yelling and cheering. In a back-and-forth game, the Bears squeaked out a two point victory. The later games weren’t quite as close, but still provided great game action.

Sunday's final game was another nail bitter. Denver White managed to erase a three point deficit against Phoenix Black to end with a two point victory in a super exciting match.

The Denver Harlequins would like to thank the generous support of our tournament sponsors: Craig Hospital, Spinergy Wheels, Winging It, China Academy, Chipolte, King Soopers, Save-a-Lot, and Pepsi. Thanks to everyone who came, we’ll c-ya next year!
 

Seeking the Heat in Phoenix
February 9th, 2007

After a weekend at home following the Coloplast International, the Denver Harlequins headed to Phoenix for more warmth and sunshine. We had Texas running scared in Tampa and they bailed out from the Phoenix tournament. They claimed lack of funds, we think it was a lack of courage.

Starter Adam Scaturro spent the first day in his hotel room, out sick. Dave Hosick stepped up and helped the Harlequins to a victory over Sharp Edge who played strong until the end.

Still without Adam in the second game, Dave Hosick and Josh Stapen split the game to combat the speed of the Portland Pounders. The Pounders lack of a strong low-pointer hampered their game, with the Harlequins winning 37-35.

On Saturday, the Harlequins played against the young guns of the University of Arizona Wildcats. The entire Denver bench played in this game.

A few turnovers towards the end closed the score to 38-36. With Texas out, the empty tournament slot was filled by a drop-in team which provided plenty of playing time for the large number of players at this tournament.

Sunday saw the anticipated Heat vs. Harlequins game and fans weren’t disappointed. The full strength Denver squad pressured Phoenix the entire game. After a few early turnovers, Denver focused and stayed in the game. Close to the end, the Harlequins</em> lost by one point, 38-39.

The Harlequins were well represented in the All-Tournament team with Jason Regier as 0.5, Adam Scaturro for 1.5, Ross Morrison for 2.5 and Chance Sumner for 3.0
 

The 15th annual Coloplast International

The Denver Harlequins headed to Tampa, Florida to enjoy the sunshine at the 15th annual Coloplast International. Rolling off the plane we immediately embraced the warmth and humidity after several weeks of cold and snow in Colorado. With five of the top six US teams, the German National team and a strong Canadian team, this would be an exciting tournament.

Our first game against the Duces Wild, a balanced lineup of 2.0 players from Canada, showed the level of competition we were up against. From the opening jump ball, the game play was intense. The lead changed several times each quarter, and neither team was able to eliminate turnovers. At the end of the fourth quarter, the score was tied sending the teams into overtime. Denver won the overtime jump ball and stalled the game. In the last minute of overtime, the Duces Wild, stole the ball and went for a quick score. Denver again stalled the ball and scored in the final seconds, leaving the score tied at the end of the first overtime. In the second overtime, Denver controlled the ball and attempted to stall the entire three minute overtime. In the final seconds of the overtime, Denver was unable to complete the final pass. Still tied, the game went into a third overtime. No score in the third overtime, sending the game into an incredible fourth overtime! Finally in the fourth overtime we successfully scored the final point to win the game.

After a tiring opening game, local hosts Tampa Generals, proved to be easier competition. Developing players, Joy, Ron and db all had ample playing time to take a decisive 52-39 victory.

Saturday opened with a tough match against defending National champions, the Phoenix Heat. The Harlequins were never able to fully get into the game and had an unfortunate number of turnovers resulting in a 39-49 loss.

Looking to avenge the morning’s loss, the Harlequins opened strongly against perennial challengers, Texas Stampede. The first quarter was tight. Texas coach Gumbie, inadvertently ran an illegal 8.5 lineup, but Denver ended the quarter in the lead. Chance Sumner delivered a huge hit against quad amputee, Robert Boothby breaking his wheelchair. Denver capitalized and took control of the game. In the fourth quarter, Boothby returned in a borrowed wheelchair. Even with Boothby back in, the Stampede were unable to close the deficit, giving the Harlequins a 38-33 victory.
Having won the important cross-over match, Sunday saw a repeat match up in the final against the Phoenix Heat. Unfortunately, the Harlequins were unable to regain their Texas form and suffered a difficult 48-40 loss.

The Denver Harlequins left Tampa with hardware from their second place finish. Adam Scaturro received honors for the All-Tournament team in the 1.5 class. Chance Sumner received the coveted MVP award. This was especially impressive as the usual contender for MVP, Phoenix Heat’s Shinichi Shimakawa played strongly.
 

2006-2007 Season Wrap Up

As part of the 2006-7 season, the Harlequins planned three developmental tournaments to get new players more playing time. The Pasadena tournament, was the second tournament in this set. Starters, Adam Scaturro and Great Britian National team member Ross Morrison lead the squad. Dave Hosick, a returning veteran, showed the determination, heart and crafty play he is known for. Second year players, David Benson and Ron Bolseth, added supporting strength. Supergirl, Joy Rondeau, continued show that girls kick ass on the rugby court. Rookie Justin Holbrook, attended his second tournament and was classified as a 1.0.

The tournament started against the home team, Pasadena. Denver started with a strong lineup and soon built up a lead. The entire bench got good playing time, leading to a 48-42 victory. The second game of the day against Tampa went even easier with a 49-35 victory.

Day two featured an opening game against the rebuilt San Antonio. The Ruff Ryders featured some big players, but the Harlequins better speed and ball control saw them another 48-42 victory. The second game against crown Rugby from Southern California was a nail-biter. Denver started strong, quickly getting a two point lead. Crown rallied and capitalized on turnovers tying up the game. Through the first, second and third quarters, the game see-sawed back and forth, with neither team able to take control of the game. The Harlequins fought strong and were in better condition for the crucial fourth quarter. Denver continued their winning streak with a 36-35 victory. Ron Bolseth played his first full game alongside Adam, Dave and Ross.

Sunday featured an anticipated game against the Austin Stampeed. However, Austin left their stars like Mark Zupan at home and brought only development players. After a slow initial start, Denver quickly took control of the game. The developmental squad saw quality playing time, leading to a 49-38 victory.

In addition to sweeping then tournament for first place, individual Denver players received recognition. Ross Morrison was selected to the All-Tournament team as best 2.5. Joy Rondeau, continued to attract attention, being named to the All-Tournament team as best 3.5.

By qualifying in the top five at the National Championship last year we earned the right to say “We are going to Disney World!” This first-year tournament takes the top five teams in the United States and the top three teams in Canada. It is probably one of the most balanced tournaments with teams and talented players.

The Denver Harlequins were ranked eighth going into the tournament. One big change in the game made in the off-season was the addition of a forty second shot clock. No one knows how the shot clock will affect teams and strategy. Our first game would be against the defending national champions Phoenix Heat. Our team came out strong and we were up on Phoenix for most of the game by one or two points. They had a good rally in the second half but Denver’s defense in the key forced Phoenix turnovers. The final score was Phoenix vs. Denver 52-53 with Denver winning by one point handing Phoenix their first loss in over a year. Our second game of the day didn’t get any easier as we played the number two team in the US, Lakeshore Demolition. We were even for most of the game until the third quarter when one of Denver’s key players Adam Scaturro suffered a chest injury. Denver’s only substitute was first-year player Ron Bolseth. Ron came in and played well but Lakeshore was able to capitalize on mismatches. Denver lost a close game, Lakeshore vs. Denver 38-34. Denver’s third game was a win over Quebec, Quebec vs. Denver 35-39

At the end of pool play Denver, Phoenix and Lakeshore were in a three-way tie with records of 2-1. Denver lost out on point differential and ended up in the 5-8 place bracket. In our crossover game we played the number one team from Canada, the BC Bandits. Denver played a strong game and was able to win convincingly, Denver vs. BC 48-43. In our last game we played Hoveround whom has become quite a rivalry for our team. Hoveround was missing key player Mike Whitehead who played with his Canadian club team London Ontario. Through the first half we were up by two points. We continued to have an effective pressing defense and a strong key defense which led to many second-half turnovers. Even with Will Groulx as a guest player for Hoveround , Denver was able to have a convincing win by six points. Hoveround vs. Denver 44-50

This new tournament with the addition of the forty second shot clock was a great way to start off the new season. Denver looks to have a strong team with the return of Ross Morrison from Great Britain and the improved play of Chance Sumner who recently returned from the world championships in New Zealand with a gold medal. Veterans Adam Scaturro and Jason Regier make a strong well-balanced starting four. With new players like David Benson, Ron Bolseth, Josh Stapen and other new players they have a nice mix of veterans and new blood needed to keep the team going. Veteran Dave Hosick will also improve their depth and be a valuable contributor this year.

Yours in rugby,

Jason

Thanks to all those who came out to our fundraiser or made donations. Your contributions make a huge difference to the team! Thanks to Karen at Coors for their generous donation of great tickets to the Denver broncos and Nuggets games.
 

Quads-Gone-Wild in Vegas!

Quads-Gone-Wild in Vegas! The Denver Harlequins started the season in early October with a developmental tournament. The Harlequins split their team in half, so everyone who attended could get more playing time.

Team A consisted of starters, US National team member Chance Sumner, Adam Scaturro and second year players David Benson, Josh Stapen and Ron Bolseth. Their balanced lineup proved very effective. Team A steam rollered over Utah 51-16, Las Vegas 66-12, Great Lakes 71-21. California Quake had a different plan handing Team A two close defeats both 42-39. Quake’s height and strong key defense were crucial.

Team B consisted of veteran Dave Hosick, guest player Nick Springer, US National team quad-amputee, new players Joy Rondeau, Ross Vogt and rookie Justin Holbrook. Their first game was a struggle against the strong Cal Quake team, ending in defeat 50-28. The next day, they rallied to beat Great Lakes. Continuing strong they defeated the local Sin City Skulls 50-24. In a long three game day, they finished strong over Utah 50-28. Perhaps after a bit too much fun the night before, Utah got the best of the Team B in a 40-31 defeat.

Team A took home 2nd place and Team B took home 4th place. Nick Springer was voted to the All-Tournament team as best 2.0. Joy Rondeau impressed may players with her spunk, being voted best 3.5 and Sportmanship. Chance Sumner showed his strong form winning the tournament MVP award.