This month’s Player of the Month is Joel Conzelmann. Joel is just finishing his Sophomore year and has been playing consistently on the first team since the start of his Freshman year. Joel’s combination of blue collar attitude and competitiveness provide the foundation for a great rugby player. A civil engineering major, Conzelmann put in five tries and two conversions this year and also garnered All Big Ten Honorable Mention. Joel has played the majority of his games at fullback but played in the flyhalf spot this spring and looks to take over the #10 jersey this fall.
Height: 5′ 10″
Weight: 190 lbs.
Year: Sophomore
Major: Civil and Environmental Engineering
Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI
Why rugby?
After soccer was finished my senior year of high school I was looking for something new to do. A couple of friends from my church back home had been playing rugby and always told me how much fun it was. So when there was an announcement at my high school that another local club was recruiting players I signed up, showed up to the first practice, and caught on quick. The combination of strength, speed, creativity, and incredible teamwork required have kept me playing and enjoying the sport. It’s been a blast to do so wearing the maize and blue.
What have you liked about Michigan rugby the most so far?
The camaraderie and friendships I have with teammates both on and off the pitch. Whether we’re on the field, training in the gym, or studying for an engineering final it seems like we’re always together working hard and having a good time. Being able to face other Big Ten opponents while representing the University of Michigan is also a privilege and challenge that I have greatly enjoyed.
Most memorable moment on the pitch?
My freshman year we played West Virginia in Pittsburgh in a couple in inches of snow and standing water. Although we didn’t win, we played hard as a team and I will never forget the challenge of trying to fight through a game in such unfortunate weather. The game against Iowa this spring was also very memorable as we came back from 17 down to significantly outscore Iowa in the second half and come away with a hard fought victory showing our resolve and potential as a team.
What’s your favorite rugby drill in practice? Least favorite?
Favorite, probably tackle 4 on 3 or any kicking drills.
Least favorite, punishment sprints.
What other sports have you played?
Soccer and basketball are the two other sports I have played the most. I played basketball for a couple of years in high school and soccer for all four. Recreationally, I also enjoy golfing and Crossfit workouts when I get the chance.
In 5 years, what do you see yourself doing?
To be honest I’m really not too sure, but if I had to say probably graduating from a master’s program in some sort of civil engineering field.
What’s some embarrassing childhood memory you can tell us?
My mom always tells a story of how I decided to try and eat a light bulb when I was very young, two or three maybe. After picking the shards of glass from my mouth she sat me down with a bunch of red popsicles to numb the pain and mask the blood so I would stop crying.
Favorite place in Ann Arbor?
Elbel Field I would say. It’s right on campus, great place to practice and there are always a variety of fun sports or activities going on.
Biggest fear?
Getting my shoelace stuck in an escalator. Not sure if that would even be possible, but I always think about it for some reason. More seriously probably getting injured to the point where I couldn’t really play sports or be active anymore.
Favorite food/meal?
Mashed Potatoes or Pasties from the U.P. Olga’s Kitchen is also my favorite restaurant.
Any game day superstitions?
I almost always make pasta the night before and on game day I usually wear two pairs of socks and tie my cleats as tight as I can.
Favorite superhero and why?
I guess I would say Batman. He uses his resources and talents for good without much thought of what people think of him.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” –Matthew 6:34
