The Lost Afternoon Rugby Luncheon is the brainchild of Scotsman Malcolm Douglas who holds fond memories of similar events in the UK.  The concept is to bring together the rugby community once a year in the spirit of the game to renew friendships, relive past glories, and explore ways in which to move the game forward.

It's called the "Lost Afternoon" for obvious reasons: once you get together with your mates in such an atmosphere, the typical 90-minute luncheon turns into three hours - or more - so you might as well stick around and fully enjoy the experience!  The extended time also provides the opportunity to hear from multiple speakers, watch some great action on the big screens, and still have plenty of time to "network."  It's not unusual for guests to even book rooms or suites in the host hotel to continue well into the evening, especially those traveling from out-of-town.

While the primary goal is to reconnect with old friends in a very social setting, the Luncheon provides the opportunity to find out what is going on in the local rugby community and beyond.  This also gives one the chance to see if there is a way to support the game we all love in general, or a specific team or support group (e.g. referees society, administrative body, etc.). It's also important that we attempt to raise a modest amount of money from the event.  The Luncheon Committee is committed to seeing that a fund is established to support the Luncheon going forward, with enough left over to offer benefits on an as-needed basis to local rugby initiatives (primarily those which benefit youth programs).

Some of this funds:

·         Individuals Coaching certification

·         Rugby Training

·         Bringing outside expertise such former All Black Scott Robertson last winter.

The inaugural Lost Afternoon Rugby Luncheon in 2009 was a huge success with 175 attendees filling the ballroom of the Westchase Hilton.  Featured speakers included USA and former Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan, USA Rugby CEO Nigel Melville, and USA Vice President Bob Latham who discussed efforts to return rugby to the Olympics (mission accomplished!).  Many in attendance reconnected with faces they hadn't seen in many years.  

http://www.lostafternoon.org/default.aspx?menuitemid=102

In 2010 the second year we were fortunate enough to have George Hook RTE (Irish television) rugby commentator & radio personality as well as John Rutherford former Scottish international.  George Hook had them rolling in the aisles while John Rutherford's recollections as a player for Scotland and the Lions had us laughing & inspired all in attendance.  In 2011 we had the good fortune to not only have South African Springbok legend & cancer survivor Rob Louw but also Brian Vizard former US National team captain.

Don't miss the opportunity to join us on June 22nd for a great "lost afternoon" of renewing friendships while also raising a few shillings for our beloved game.