An evening to remember

Pictured left to right: Mark Morris, Alex Gallin, Geoff Mason, Burke Hayes, Jean-Pierre Chambas, Howard Hunt and Steve Darnell.

Approximately 200 players, alumni and friends attended University of South Carolina Rugby Hall of Fame Gala Saturday, the largest-ever turnout.

The seminal event included the induction of five long-time volunteer coaches: Jean-Pierre Chambas, Geoff Mason, Mark Morris, Howard Hunt and Steve Darnell. Burke Hayes and the late Andy Gallin, two dominant players of the 1970s, also received the honor.

Honoray alumni awards were presented to parent couples Bill and Cindy McKernan, Mark and Cynthia Howard and Colonel Kevin Shwedo.

Coach John Roberts and staff also presented players awards: Grant Ruhlen (Most Valuable Player), Charlie Phelan (Most Valuable Forward), Nick Dubois (Most Valuable Back), Charlie Colvin (Most Improved), Thomas Regan (Rookie of the Year) and Jack Edwards (Gamecock Award).

Photos of the event