Hall of Fame Journeys

Joe Amidon came to UW Rugby looking for a tough, full-contact sport—and left with lifelong friendships, big wins, and even a mid-game marriage proposal. The lessons he learned on the pitch still shape his life today as a professor and mentor.

What started with a humbling loss on the cross country course turned into a lifelong passion for rugby. After transferring to Madison, Kirt Soukup found his place on the pitch, sparking a journey that led from milestone wins with UW to national championship runs with some of the country’s top clubs.

Rich “Animal” Fromstein’s UW Rugby story is one of grit, leadership, and lifelong lessons. From southern tours and snow-covered championship wins to building businesses and mentoring others, Animal has carried the spirit of Badger Rugby into everything he’s done since 1979.

From Big Ten champion to team captain, this Badger made the most of every moment on and off the pitch. Discover how four unforgettable years—and two international tours—shaped his rugby journey.

Eric found rugby his freshman year at UW and held the tighthead spot for five years. The sport expanded his world and gave him lasting friendships—and he's proud to have launched the Alumni Sustaining Fund. 

David grew up in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), where he caught the rugby bug. He helped bring that passion to UW’s young rugby team, and one of his proudest moments? Getting into Sports Illustrated’s ‘Faces in the Crowd". 

Sean found rugby in high school and fully embraced UW’s team after transferring from MSU. As captain, he led a Cinderella run to the DII National Championship, then went on to win a national title with NYAC before retiring in 2021.

For lifelong Badger fan Luke, suiting up for UW Rugby was a dream come true. The team gave him not only global adventures and fierce competition—but a second family.

Tyler Crass joined UW Rugby in 2014 to play alongside his twin brother—and ended up with championships, global adventures, and lifelong friendships. From Big Ten titles to international tours, rugby shaped some of the best years of his life. 

What started as a study break turned into a global journey and a lifelong bond with the UW rugby community. See how a teammate’s nudge led to unexpected lessons in teamwork, inclusivity, and friendship.

John grew up playing 7s and 10s with the New Auburn Syndrome Rugby Club, a team founded by his father, and joined the UW squad the day after moving into the dorms. With no 15s experience, he quickly adapted to the structured game—laying the foundation for a standout collegiate career.

After Stu Pippel retired in 1993, Skip stepped in as head coach and led Wisconsin Men’s Rugby from 1995 to 2012. He assembled a strong staff with help from WWRC and WRC alumni, including longtime backs coach Lisa Riehl and many dedicated assistants.