Northern Illinois' Men's Rugby Club saw a landmark season in 2012/2013. Being promoted to Division I was a step in a previously unexpected direction. The NI men's rugby team was a team of hooligans and scoundrels having been kicked off campus in the early 2000's. Upon returning as a sanctioned university club, the team began rebuilding their reputation. By 2010, Northern was dominating the Chicago Area Rugby Football Union and made their way into DII national playoffs. An unfortunate, yet close, defeat by the 2011 champions University of Wisconsin - Whitewater, knocked the team out in the first round. The 2011 season saw Northern blow out the CARFU competition again, and again be invited to playoffs. Through sheer determination, Northern won the first two rounds of playoffs and were invited to join the newly forming Division I-AA bracket for the 2012-2013 seasons. This marked a turning point for the team which required a more professional approach to the club's affairs. Thaddeus "Navy" Hupp was elected president for the forthcoming season after only playing for one year. Having served 8 years in the navy, he held an air of respect and responsibility about him. A natural born leader for this young team. He always looked out for the reputation of our club and did anything he could to make us look and act like a varsity team. Although ineligible to play during the season, he still showed up to every practice. It was his efforts behind the scenes though, that created the professional atmosphere our team thrived on. His work allowed the team to travel to Ohio, Michigan, and Wisconsin without the players having to front the bill. When our scrum sled (an essential practice tool) deteriorated, he was able to secure us a new one. When the weather was bad, he secured us dedicated time for practice at the indoor field house. He was the driving force behind our team's necessities, and allowed us to continue on our 16-3 season ending the year 6th in the nation. His dedication to the sport and our team was an inspiration to us all. This video is dedicated to his hard work and diligence which allowed our team to succeed beyond expectations. It was his leadership which drove our team to the top. On behalf of the Northern Illinois Rugby Football Club, I would like to thank you for all that you have done for us. You are loved and sorely missed, Thaddeus. Rest in Peace.

• published: 18 Feb 2015
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