Luke Henricks

2015-2018

Number 8

Biography

Growing up as a Badger fan, being able to complete for UW and wear the “W” across my chest was a dream of mine. I could never imagine the experiences that UW rugby gave me from high level competition, traveling around the world, and life long friendships. Throughout my 4.5 years, UW Rugby made sure I was active, had something to look forward to, and always had a friend to lean on.

Please share a fun fact about you or your favorite rugby memory.

While there are endless memories and stories, my favorite has to be lifting the Big 10 Championship Trophy. After being tied in a stalemate, Jake Kaplan scored the winning try as time expired. The perfect ending to my time as a Badger.

Is there a specific achievement or contribution you're especially proud of from your time on the team?

In 2016 we won the Big 10 7s Championship which qualified us for the CRCs in Philadelphia. This was a defining moment which led to 2 Plate Championships at CRCs and 2 more Big 10 titles over my time with the team. The support from alumni during these trips made it so much sweeter. We always had a community traveling with us and cheering us on.

What have you been up to since graduating, or how did rugby impact your post-college life?

I now live just outside of Milwaukee with my wife and 1 year old daughter. I am still playing rugby for the Milwaukee Rugby Football Club (with a number of my Badger teammates). It’s clear the rugby community is bigger than I had thought and in my professional life, rugby has formed instant connections and friendships on so many occasions. (Or your future boss may be impressed that you played such a “tough” sport)

Who were your most influential coaches or teammates, and why?

Scott “Scooter” Adlington was and is someone I really look up to. He assumed the head coach role for my final season and was the definition of a leader. While he challenged us, he always had a “players driven” philosophy which allowed our team to really grow as a unit. We were forced to problem solve and play to our strengths. Scooter was a phenomenal role model for us on and off the field.

What advice would you give to current or future rugby players at UW-Madison?

I would challenge the current players to embrace every bit of college rugby. Soak it up! These four years can go by so quickly. While I know school and other activities can be a lot to juggle, I’m sure I speak for most alumni when I say the late practices, socials, bus rides; all the little moments, with your teammates are so so special. You won’t get this time back so take it as far as you can and leave the club in a better place than when you arrived.