Pete Melgren is this month’s Player of the Month. Pete’s dedication and hard work to the team on the field and off as the match coordinator deserve to be recognized. Pete has also helped set up our service work in France and is a general inspiration for younger players to work hard everyday.
Height: 5′ 9″
Weight: 190 lbs.
Year: Junior
Major: Mathematics
Hometown: Wichita, KS
What have you liked about Michigan rugby the most so far?
If someone asked me what the best decision I made in college was, I would say playing with the UMRFC. Not only have I learned a game that I’ll be able to play anywhere on the globe for years to come, I’ve also grown as an athlete, competitor, and student through my rugby experiences on and off the pitch. Most importantly though is the knowledge that every time I step on the pitch, I’m wearing a crest that represents 53 years of tradition. This experience that I share with over a thousand alumni and my current teammates creates a sense of camaraderie that has been incredibly meaningful so far in college.
What legacy do you want to leave with the UMRFC?
I would love to play a major role in helping the UMRFC realize the dream of hosting an annual summer camp on the U of M campus for high school rugby players. I believe the club has the current resources to get this done, and doing so will be an important step towards us having a significant presence in midwest rugby.
In 5 years, what do you see yourself doing?
In five years I hope to be working a satisfying job that helps me to pay off college debt and open the door financially to more long-term entrepreneurial goals. I would love for this to all happen in my home state of Kansas with a smart, attractive Kansas woman by my side, but to a certain extent that isn’t up to me. I am pretty confident that wherever I do end up, involvement with a local rugby club will be a big part of my life.
Should we know about any notable family or friends?
There are a lot of successful people in my family, but no one famous.
What’s some embarrassing childhood memory you can tell us?
I once went to WalMart with my mom and made it all the way to the parking lot before I realized that I hadn’t brought any shoes. This was when I was 10 or 11, not 4 or 5.
Biggest fear?
I’m terrified that at the end of this spring, Coach Trenary is going to ask me to put on a lot of weight over the summer and play prop in the fall. I’d do it with a smile on my face, but right now a hooker’s life is the life for me.
Favorite food?
I really enjoy a thick juicy cheeseburger. So long as you taste the meat and not just the condiments.
Any game day superstitions?
A cup of yogurt before a game and listening to “Gold on the Ceiling” by the Black Keys.
Favorite superhero and why?
The Flash. He only has one advantage over his enemies and he has to be more creative in order to make it work.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
“Don’t forget to work hard, but don’t forget to have fun.”
