As we enter the grit-and-grind of the middle of XV’s season here in Ann Arbor, we look back to honor the career of Dave Weber. Dave was a Hall of Inspiration Inductee in 2015, and his playing style reflects a key aspect of Michigan Rugby today: Wolverineness. A past Captain, Dave’s work off the field was as commendable as his effort on it, and he is honored this month as both a great rugger and ambassador of the game. Here’s a little more about Dave Weber:
When did you play?
I played for 10 years prior to moving to Ann Arbor in the fall of ’76. My last serious match with the club was spring of ’85.
What is your favorite memory or memories as a member of the club?
In our time there were no leagues, no divisions, and even unions were just beginning to get organized, to the detriment of all. We lined the fields and put up the posts (just about everybody took a turn on the ‘erection committee’). We scheduled all our own matches, which allowed us to play lots of fun Canadian sides , as well as most of the top clubs in the Midwest. We were lucky to have a mix of older men and college kids, which was greatly beneficial to both. ( I fought against the change back then, but the fix was in). It all built on itself and we reaped a lot of success…..eventually fielding 4-5 sides each weekend. (Narwhals Rool !)
It was really just plain exciting and fascinating to be involved with such a vast array of talents and personalities.
The game has changed so much, both on and off the pitch, since I began playing. Tries were 3 points, no subs (even for injuries), and it was completely amateur at all levels. I’ve kinda lost track of the game since the ‘possession’ laws changed and a way different style emerged……but it’s still a great game for young men and I respect anyone who gives their all for their teammates.
I have so many fond memories of my time with the club. Amazing players, charismatic leaders, inspirational club men , and a multitude of strange characters that produced an environment that made for more fun than should be allowed. I am sure that is still true today. Take care that you appreciate it all.
Did you have any special honors during your time with the club? (ie captain, chair positions, midwest finals etc)
I was a club captain during my time here. I played on a number of ‘select sides’ , but all of them were a waste of time, except my brother’s Church Street Barbarians teams. When I first started playing in Australia, my school’s motto was…’Honor non Honores’….honor before honors. I’m not trying to sound cute, but the greatest honor was having so many young men allow me to lead them. I truly feel that.
What are you doing now?
I help my wife and two kids with their lives…..and try to tread lightly on the world.
