Kansas City Blues RFC
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[edit] The Founding
Based on a loose affiliation with both UMKC and Rockhurst College, the Kansas City Blues Rugby Club was established in 1966. Strides were taken early on to develop a unique Club identity and culture by the founding members, and throughout the 70's and 80's, the Blues elevated their rugby knowledge and skill level to become one of the dominant teams in the United States. In 2007, the Blues field an active roster of 35 players, an Old Boys side (35+ years) called the Blues Brothers, a U-19 high school side (Jr. Blues), and an even larger supporting cast of non-playing members.
[edit] Success in the 1990's and the Super League
Since 1993, the Blues have participated in two Division 1 National Championships in 15's rugby, placing 4th in 1993 and 3rd in 1994. The Blues have also been a fixture in the 7's National Championships, competing at Nationals in 8 of the last 15 years, placing 2nd in 1993, 5th in 1998 and 2nd in 2000.
A founding Club in 1996 and 10-year member of the United States Rugby Super League, the Blues compiled a 19-18-2 record in their first five seasons, advancing to the League semi-finals in 2000 and 2001. However, from 2003-2006 the Blues struggled to a combined 5-23 record and saw their numbers decrease under the burden of player turnover, and the overwhelming financial demands of competing in the nation's top competition.
[edit] Starting to Rebuild
In an effort to rebuild a proud Club that celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2006, the Blues made the difficult decision, following the departure of many other National Top Clubs to deparrt from the League they helped build since 1996. Exiting as a 10-year member and partner in the widely successful Super League, the Blues wish for the continued success of the competition, and have established a long-term plan for potential re-entry. The Blues re-join the USA Rugby's Division 1 ranks in the fall of 2007 with high expectations and a bright future.
[edit] Finding Eagles
Over the years, countless Blues have represented the Western Territory at the National All-Star Championships, and on tours with the Western Territory to New Zealand and Canada. 2006's Western Mustangs Select Side featured two Blues players on the Western Colts Developmental Side. The International Rugby Board (IRB) initiated North American Cross-Border Competition, the 'North American Four', was developed in early 2006 to provide an elite, professional level of rugby just below the international level for both Canada and the United States. Two Blues were members of the inaugural NA4 competition.
The Blues have also recently sent a number of players to the US National Team, The Eagles, in both 7's and 15's rugby. Doug Brown, Michael Skahan, and Steve Robke all spent a considerable amount of time on tour with the Eagles 7's side in the late 90's and early 00's. Maika Sika has been capped over 45 times for the both the 7's and 15's sides. Tim Kluempers represented the US in 15's three times in 2001, and most recently, former Blue Fraser Leavasa was invited to try-out for the Eagles 7s side.
