Honored to Serve: Reflections on the USA Military Rugby Tour to the United Kingdom

Representing the United States is always a profound honor, but serving as Team Manager for the 2025 USA Military Rugby Tour to the United Kingdom was an experience that stands apart. “This program is unique—not only does it support active-duty service members, but it also creates opportunities for military veterans to continue representing their country through sport,” said Kevin Flynn, SRC Club President and Team Manager. “That blend of experience, perspective, and shared service made this tour truly special.”

Eight SRC Members Make Their Mark

From the moment the squad assembled, Kevin Flynn felt the weight and privilege of his role. “Managing a team composed of active-duty personnel and veterans—each with their own duties, commitments, and personal journeys—requires trust, respect, and a genuine appreciation for their dedication,” he said. “I was humbled each day by the professionalism, resilience, and pride our players carried with them.”

Eight Seattle Rugby Club members joined the tour, both on the field and in critical support roles. Flynn highlighted, “Among the players, Nokoni Fogg, Dennis Munter, and Freddie Tafuna were truly exceptional—on the field, in their preparation, and in the pride with which they represented both the military and the Seattle Rugby Club.”

Off the field, SRC members played equally important roles:

• Nick Punimata, club military liaison, coordinated logistics and provided essential support.
  
  
• Brian Power delivered medical care, keeping athletes prepared and healthy.
  
  
• Dave Enright ensured operational excellence through his management experience.
  
  
• Jennie Flynn oversaw logistical details, keeping the tour running smoothly from start to finish.
  

Flynn emphasized the critical role of supporters: “This tour would not have been possible without the generosity and belief of our community back home. Our heartfelt thanks go to every Seattle Rugby supporter who stepped up to make this dream a reality.”

A Challenging Match and Lasting Lessons

The tour culminated in a match against the British Army Rugby Union Senior Men’s XV. While the U.S. Military Team ultimately lost 31‑12 (Goff Rugby Report), the experience yielded far more than a scoreboard victory. Flynn reflected, “The true wins were in personal growth, teamwork, and the relationships strengthened between active-duty members, veterans, and our SRC teammates. Success is measured in character, connection, and the lasting impact on everyone involved.”

Off the field, players shared meals, swapped stories, and mentored one another across generations of service members. “These moments created bonds that will last long after the tour ended,” said Flynn.

Honoring Rugby and Military Values

“Rugby has always been a game built on respect, humility, and brotherhood,” Flynn said. “Combine that with the shared values of military service—past and present—and the result is something truly powerful. This tour reminded us all that success isn’t just measured by tries scored; it’s measured in character, connection, and lasting impact.”

Flynn concluded, “I will forever carry the honor of serving as Team Manager on this unforgettable journey. The scoreboard captured only a moment—but the real wins were found in every step, every lesson, and every shared experience along the way.”

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