10/23/2026
🐝A True Reading Rugby Legend: Celebrating Kerry Griffith🐝
Some men play the game; others help build the brotherhood. Kerry Griffith has done both. A former Reading Rugby president, former Governor Mifflin lineman, and longtime coach, Kerry has dedicated decades to the club, helping lead teams to numerous victories and tournament wins. Taking over the coaching reins after the notorious Ray Bickley, Kerry continued Reading Rugby’s tradition of toughness, camaraderie, and competition. More importantly, he has always believed in giving young men the opportunity to discover rugby, challenge themselves, and become part of something bigger than themselves.
Kerry’s rugby journey began in 1982 when Ed Lutz introduced him to the sport with a challenge against Ray Kase in a front-row push. As Kerry recalls, Ed’s invitation to practice came with a warning: “Practice is Tuesday and Thursday at 6 o’clock. You better be there or I’ll kick your ass.” Kerry was hooked, remaining involved through the 1990s, eventually becoming club president and helping establish the Reading April Fools Tournament, a successful fundraising event that continues to represent his commitment to building the club’s future.
Of course, no Reading Rugby legend would be complete without a few stories worth retelling! Fellow old boy Roger Duffey remembers Kerry “shooting the boot” at Brother Joe’s, inventing the infamous “anemia bag chug” (or is it e***a? Lol) at the 19th Ward Cafe, and designing the perfect play to put Kerry in the opposing try zone. Add in countless tales of “defying incarceration,” and you have the kind of memories that make rugby brotherhood last a lifetime. Pictured here alongside fellow RRFC alumni Ducky d’Angelo, Ed Lutz, Doug Ross, Ryan Sauppee, and Mike Sosh (and others), Kerry stands among the men who helped shape Reading Rugby’s proud history.
Even as he approaches 70, Kerry continues to teach the technical aspects of the game hands-on, inspiring fellow coaches and players through his dedication and example. As his fellow coach puts it, “He’s a true leader and ambassador of the sport we love. I’m happy to call him a great, great friend and will always go to war with Kerry.” Beloved by his club, players, and fans, Kerry Griffith embodies what Reading Rugby is all about: leadership, loyalty, friendship, and brotherhood. Thank you, Kerry, for the victories, the laughter, the lessons, and the lasting legacy you continue to build. Once a Reading Rugby man, always a Reading Rugby man. Up With Reading! We love ya, Coach! 🐝