About PRFC
The Portland Rugby Club is the oldest rugby club in the state of Maine. Since our founding in 1969, we have worked to become a model for club-led, community-based rugby. We’re working to make a home for rugby that will serve future generations in Maine and all of New England.
Our Mission
At Portland Rugby Football Club, it’s our mission to transform the way the game is played and perceived in the United States by creating and demonstrating a model for club-led, community-based rugby. As members we are dedicated to promoting a positive and welcoming environment for ruggers of all ages and backgrounds. Starting with our committed and integrated men’s and women’s+ rugby club, we’re creating a statewide rugby ecosystem that welcomes all comers, including:
- Introductory youth and high school programs
- College undergraduate teams
- Regional clubs, national, and professional teams
- A state-of-the-art rugby complex, the Field of Dreams
Our Values
Respect
We treat each other with respect. Whether you’re one our teammates or one of our opponents, whether you’re on the field or standing on the sidelines, we treat everyone how they want to be treated as a valued part of our community.
Inclusion
We strive to make everyone feel welcome at PRFC. No matter who you are, there’s a home for you in our club and at our events. We do not discriminate based on background, body type, race, religion, or identity.
Camaraderie
We host international teams and travel the world to spread the good spirit of rugby. Although we are often meet as competitors, we extend our fellowship past our fans and teammates to our opponents and all rugby fans around the world.
Community
We believe that being on a team adds to one’s identity and encourages people to cross paths when they would otherwise never meet. Lifelong friendships have been born from the PRFC, and we will always foster a space where these connections can be made.
Family
We welcome all comers to the game of rugby, from the young to the grizzled. The combination of our youth program, men’s and women’s teams, and social member program allow fans and players of all ages to participate in the PRFC.
Fun
We never lose sight of the reason we’re here. Rugby is a competitive game and we strive for excellence, but we never lose sight of the fact that our joy comes from the bonds we form with each other. Above all else, we play the game for fun.
Our Board
Heidi Osborn, Chair
Played for 10+ years for Beantown, Concord, and Portland. Now retired from a 31 year career as corporate counsel.
Matt Winch, Treasurer
20+ years of playing and then coaching with Portland. A licensed Architect with over 30 years of experience and 20 years leading Garrison Consulting, his own private practice.
Tom Lovering, Director of Rugby; Secretary
Played with Maidstone and University of Sussex in the UK (12 years total) before moving to Portland, playing for another 14 with Portland, and head coaching since 2009. 25+ years in sales, marketing and business development; currently in software sales to the public sector.
Jim Shiminski, Marketing and Fundraising Chair
His 16-year rugby career included playing with SUNY Maritime College, Harvard Business School, and Portland RFC. Currently CEO of Dynamic Air Corp.
MaryBeth Mathews, Director
One of the founding members of Portland Women, also played with Beantown, for a total of 14 years. Recently retired after 29 years coaching the nationally ranked women’s varsity rugby program at Bowdoin College. Director/owner Polar Bear Rugby Camp for girls.
Richard Pfeffer, Field Development Chair
Beginning with University of Rochester, via Sun Valley and London Saracens U21, played 28 years with Portland, now enjoying an old boys rugby career. Founder and owner of Gritty McDuff’s, Portland’s original brewpub, started 30+ years ago.
James Canon, President Men’s Team
Started with California high school and Humboldt CSU rugby, player with Portland over 20 years, still picking up the occasional match. 20+ year career in supply chain management for an international grocery chain.
Kim DeLune, President Women’s+ Team
A longtime supporter of Portland Rugby, Kim brings strong organizational skills and a collaborative mindset to the board. She has been actively involved with the club in recent years and is passionate about supporting player development, community engagement, and the long-term success of Portland Rugby.
Elisabeth Dustin, Director
30 years as a player, coach and referee included playing with Mt. Holyoke, Chicago, St. Louis, Beantown and Portland, and coaching Bowdoin Women. Now retired from her VP role specializing in strategic and operational technology initiatives.
Join a team.
Ready to step onto the field? Our men’s, women’s+, and youth teams are always looking for new players. Whether you’re a seasoned rugger or you’ve never been part of a scrum, we welcome all comers and we’re excited for you to join us on the pitch.
