Sam Glusker is our September Player of the Month. Since joining the team, Glusker has become an important leader on and off the field. Congratulations, Sam!
Position: Wing
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 170 lbs
Year: Sophmore
Major: International Studies
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Why did you decide to play rugby?
I didn’t know much about rugby when I came to Michigan, but a couple of my former football teammates picked it up in college and had great things to say about it. I thought my skillset from football might translate well, so I just decided to give it a shot.
What have you liked about Michigan Rugby so far?
The community on the team is honestly unlike anything else I’ve ever been a part of. From the first meeting I came to, it felt like everyone was smiling, dapping me up, and introducing themselves. I think the older guys remember what it was like to be newer to the team and they’ve constantly reciprocated good energy to everyone for as long as I’ve been here.
Describe your most memorable moment on the field.
In our game against Kutztown in the quarterfinals of the CRCs my freshman year, I carried the ball, thinking I was about to make a break. Unfortunately, I got grabbed and eventually wrapped up by two defenders, but instead of tackling me, they just held me up. I was still quite new to rugby at this point and had no idea that was something that you could even do. They held me up while I just flailed my legs in the air like a puppy in air-jail for what felt like a solid 30 seconds. Eventually, our captain, Tommy Hendricks, came in and started trying to drive me to the ground. It didn’t actually work, but I appreciated the thought. It was by no means a highlight and it’s definitely the most humiliating moment I’ve experienced on the field, but it was memorable nonetheless.
What’s your most favorite rugby drill in practice? Least favorite?
I like any offloading drill we do. I think they’ve helped my creativity and overall feel for the game improve more than anything else. 2 on 2 tackling is probably my least favorite – it hasn’t always been kind to my shoulders.
What other sports have you played?
Football and basketball.
What do you see yourself doing in five years?
Living on an island somewhere warm. Having a job would be nice too.
What is an embarrassing childhood memory that you can share with us?
When I was little, I was quite afraid of getting shots at the doctor, so when I was about six years old and had to get a flu shot, I wasn’t thrilled about it. My mom tried to calm me down by explaining that I had to get it because getting the flu was a much worse alternative. I didn’t agree with her, so I ran out of the doctor’s office crying and screaming, “I don’t care, just give me the flu!” (think Cartman in that one South Park episode) in front of a waiting room of parents and much more well-behaved kids. My parents love bringing that one up.
What is your favorite place in Ann Arbor?
Mr. Spots
What is your biggest fear?
Goblin-ghouls
What is your favorite food?
Uncooked pasta
Do you have any game-day superstitions? Explain.
I walk the whole length of the field before each game. It’s something I started to do in high school since it helps me visualize cutting up a defense, scoring, and just doing my job at a high level.
Who’s your favorite superhero? Why?
Batman – I’d be lying if I said the Dark Knight Trilogy isn’t 90% of the reason.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
“The man who says he can and the man who says he cannot are both correct.”
Again, congratulations to our September Player of the Month, Sam Glusker!
