November Alumnus of the Month: Bruce Kingsbury

This month’s honored alumnus is Bruce Kingsbury. Bruce is currently in his 5th decade with the club. Bruce’s passion and inspiration are what stand out among his past teammates. They characterize him with words such as tough, gritty, and fiery. Not surprising for a front rower. He also was a dedicated teammate. One such teammate said, “He took the younger players under his wing and showed them the way. If you followed him on the field, you were going the right direction.” There may be no higher honors than the compliments paid by your Michigan Rugby teammates. Three cheers for Bruce!

When did you play?
I played rugby from 1972-1990.

What is your favorite memory or memories as a member of the club?
My favorite memory is playing in the University of Victoria tournament in 1981. Victoria is a beautiful city seated upon the straits of Juan de Fuca. The cliffs overlook the US side of the straits which are filled with the Olympic Mountains and their great snow capped peaks surrounded by the greenery of great pine trees. During the game I had the pleasure of coming in for the injured Ian Chapman and leading the Blue to several tries. On the way home we went on the sunrise cruise from Victoria to Vancouver. On that drive, we saw barking seals as the sunlight started to shine.

Did you have any special honors during your time with the club?
I got the 1978 Michigan Rugby club ball given by Dave Weber. I was an attendant at the 1987 B team championship dinner given by the college club to honor a fallen teammate.

What are you doing now?
I am disabled and live at home but still make time to work out at the Washtenaw Country Rec Center and on my deck all year long.

Any other interesting stories or info that you can provide?
I had the chance of a lifetime to learn about the support and family structure of a rugby club. In 2009 when I lost my leg numerous former teammates including the ones I played with in college helped me smile and laugh during the days following the amputation. And to that I like to send my personal thanks to the likes of Tex and Travis, Ian Chapman, Dave Perpich, Dave Weber, Jack Fisher, Rory O’Connor and Arnold Cowmeadow, who taught me what a lifetime sport rugby really is.