OURAA MAY NEWSLETTER
Read on for a recap of a successful Varsity-Alumni weekend, pitch improvement projects, giving updates and end of season raves for the current Roses.
- VARSITY-ALUMNI WEEKEND 2026 RECAP
This year’s Hall of Fame & Varsity-Alumni Weekend was dedicated as a memorial to Tim “Tarzan” Wilson, founder of the OU Rugby Club, who passed away earlier this year. The weekend was well attended by Roses alumni, many of whom traveled long distances. Although the weekend had its emotional moments, it was still a wonderful opportunity for us all to be together in celebration of our dear mate Tarzan, our club, and friendships.
Weekend Highlights:
The Roses Brunch on Saturday morning was a great success! Turnout exceeded RSVP’s and was nearly standing room only. Roses across the decades got to know each other. Thanks to OURAA board member Laura Peliti for organizing this new VA weekend event at Press & Plow Cafe.
Alumni prom dress touch rugby game on Saturday was played between Alumni teams as the OU Roses Varsity was out of town playing in Arkansas. The Varsity team was attempting to qualify for Nationals.
Tarzan Memorial Raffle raised $1,210 to support the OU Rugby Clubhouse and Tarzan pitch. OURAA board members Michelle Corr and Deena Telley organized the raffle. Special thanks to everyone who bought tickets! OU Men’s Alumni President Justin Myers won the beautifully framed iconic print and Kevin Sullivan won the Tarzan rave book.
HOF dinner & memorial: OURAA historical committee members Michelle Corr and Deena Telley spoke of Tarzan’s contributions to the OU women’s team from its beginnings in 1975 and through the decades. OURAA communications leader Rachel Griffith stepped in for Holly Iker to give the OU Roses Varsity report. Head coach Holly Iker was with the team as they vied for a spot at Nationals.
Alumni provided a sendoff for the Varsity team as they headed to Arkansas for a 7’s qualifier event. Michelle got a plant!
Sunday Memorial at Clubhouse closed out the weekend with a magnificent brunch at the clubhouse and the hanging of Tarzan’s boots.
- Pitch improvements with OURAA
Special thanks to OURAA members who helped with the pitch clean up and scrum sled refurbishment. Shout out to Twendy for making it happen.
- OU Giving Day and New Donation Account
OU Giving Day saw 11 donors contribute $2,200 to the OU Roses student fund. Thanks to all who generously gave.
OURAA’s Venmo Charity Profile is now active. Please provide donations here: https://account.venmo.com/u/OURosesAlumniAssociation
- OU Roses End Season as Lonestar Champs
The Roses and local alumni gathered in late April to celebrate a successful season as the 2026 Lonestar Conference Champions. The team started the night with fun personally-decorated “plate” awards given to each player from another, white elephant style.
OURAA’s Tracy Curtis gave a nice speech about OU Rugby and its storied history, raving Coach Holly Iker and the current players. The evening featured lots of laughter, inside jokes, and time together before the 2026 seniors depart for their next great adventure. Ingrid, Nancy, Tracy, Twendy and P. Dave served as alumni cheerleaders for the event.
At the end of the evening, awards were given out, punctuating a successful season on and off the pitch. Congrats to all Roses!
Most Valuable Player: Harlie Corey
Most Valuable Forward: Taylor Peterson
Most Valuable Back: Harlie Corey
Offensive MVP: Sara Kraft
Defensive MVP: Gracie Corey
Most Improved: Sophie Mater
Rookie of the Year: Anya Townsend
With You award: Cadence Mott
As always, if you have news to share or want to get involved in OURAA, please reach out to RachelAGriffith@gmail.com.