Saratoga R.F.C.'s Lends a Hand at Habitat Build

Members of Saratoga Rugby have long claimed the desire to distance the team from the less-than-savory stereotypes many hold of rugby players. On Saturday, August 15th, members of the Mustangs, Stallions, and Stampede again showed their strong commitment to the Saratoga Community by helping out at a Habitat for Humanity build project in Porter's Corners, New York.

Stampede members Mike "Shortstack" Pelella and "Aussie" Steve Ristau at the Porter's Corner site.

Mustangs players Joya Clark, Heidi Pastor, and Shannon Dowdle show off their carpentry skills at the August 15th build.

When asked to help out with the project, the local Habitat coordinators hoped that Saratoga Rugby could provide 8 to 10 volunteers to the project. When the call went out to the clubs, however, 30 volunteers answered the call.

Over the course of the day, the front and rear doors were installed on the house , the electrical rough in phase was started and the vinyl siding installation began. Work also continued on the front porch.While several crews worked on the siding, another crew had the lesenvious task (not fun) of installing the insulation on the concrete walls in the basement.

The entire day was not spent hard at work. The volunteers were treated to a fantastic lunch by members of the Stallions and their assistants.

Thanks again to everyone for all of your hard work. We look to see you at the 2009 Polar Plunge in Lake George, New York, to benefit Special Olympics. Last winter, Saratoga Rugby led all teams and raised almost $5,000 for a very worthy cause. Visit the Polar Plunge website to join or to make a donation!