The Field as a Fortress: Why High-Level Rugby is Vital for Military Mental Wellness

As the President of the Seattle Rugby Club and, more personally, a proud co-founder of the USA Military Rugby program, the upcoming "Rugby for Remembrance 2025" tour is more than just a trip—it’s the cornerstone of our mission. It’s a powerful, intentional demonstration of the healing power of this sport and our unwavering commitment to our veterans' mental well-being and their successful re-engagement with high-level competition.

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When I look at the incredible squad composed of Masters and Senior players from every branch—Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force—I don't just see athletes. I see service members who are finding a new form of purpose, camaraderie, and structure on the pitch. This is where the core of our work lies: in mental health.

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The Structure of Healing

The transition from military life is often fraught with difficulty, characterized by a loss of the tight-knit unit structure, a clear mission, and the constant physical and mental challenge of service. Rugby is uniquely positioned to fill that void. The demanding training, the absolute reliance on your teammates, the physical and intellectual rigor of the game—it all mirrors the best elements of military service in a safe, constructive environment.

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For those battling the unseen wounds of service, the rhythm of a rugby team is a lifeline. It provides accountability, a sense of belonging that combatting isolation requires, and the discipline needed to manage stress and anxiety. Getting these players "back on the field" is an active form of therapy, a holistic approach that uses physical exertion and shared struggle to foster mental resilience.

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High-Level Competition: A Measure of Recovery

Our ultimate goal is not just participation; it is the vital process of proving to these veterans that they can still perform at an elite level. This is why the 2025 Remembrance Tour, hosted at the historic Royal Military Academy Sandhurst with fixtures at Aldershot Rugby Stadium, is so crucial.

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On November 7th, our Masters XV faces the British Army Masters XV, and most significantly, on Remembrance Day, November 11th, our Senior Men's XV will go head-to-head with the British Army Senior XV. These are high-stakes, high-profile matches that require absolute focus and commitment. Competing against an opponent as storied and respected as the British Army is a profound challenge. Successfully navigating that pressure—the lights, the crowd, the fierce competition—is a powerful statement of personal recovery. It tells the veteran: You still possess the discipline, the strength, and the tactical brilliance to succeed.

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My role as Tour Manager, alongside the essential logistics handled by Jennie Flynn and the critical medical oversight provided by Brian Power, ensures that every aspect of this tour supports the players' peak physical and mental performance. It’s a team effort off the pitch to ensure their success on it. Watching our own Dennis Munter and Freddie Tafuna earn their selection reinforces the incredible standard of commitment we uphold.

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A Legacy Honored

These matches honor the legacy of our fallen service members through the shared values of courage, teamwork, and sacrifice. The rugby pitch, for a few hours, becomes sacred ground where we reflect the enduring alliance between our two nations and, more importantly, reaffirm our commitment to those who have served.

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We are deeply grateful for the support of partners like Rugby Works, our generous sponsors like Penington painting, Powerfund, and Raymark Plumbing, and the invaluable professional coaching from the Seattle Seawolves staff. Their investment is an investment in veteran lives.

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The field is a fortress, and the game is the mission. We encourage everyone to learn more about this impactful program. Follow our journey and mission at www.allamericanrugby.com.

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