2022-23 Kevin Higgins College Scholarship Program Recipient: Erik Rosenmeier

A true student of the game, Erik Rosenmeier is not looking for fanfare. “I have no grand ambitions for my rugby future. I don’t envision games in stadiums with roaring crowds and TV interviews. I see myself playing in the local men’s league or coaching a youth team. Most importantly though, I see myself passing down all the lessons I have been taught. That is my one ambition, to instill humility, grit, and a desire to make the world a better place into whatever community I end up in,” said Erik.  

‍

Rosenmeier joined the Belmont High School rugby team in his freshman year. By the end of his high school career, he had earned playing time with the Boston Irish Wolfhounds, the Northeast Academy U19, and New England Freejack Academy U19 teams. In his senior season, he helped captain Belmont to a state championship title.

“Not only is Erik a good player, he is also an incredible teammate and always has a bright smile, a kind word of encouragement, and a pat on the back for those in need. He was always one of the voices that his teammates looked to and he will be missed now that he has graduated. From my experiences with Erik, it appears his work ethic will propel him to the top of anything with which he chooses to be involved. I know the lessons he has learned and displayed on the rugby team related to teamwork and his strong ability to connect with and collaborate with others will undoubtedly help him in any environment he is placed in,” said Gregory Bruce, Belmont Marauders Rugby Head Coach. 

‍

Erik graduated from Belmont High School in Belmont, Massachusetts in the spring of 2022 with a 3.77 GPA. He was also a four-year member of his high school theater program, the jazz choice, and the Madrigal Singers. An avid outdoorsman, he was a member of the hiking and mountain biking clubs. He completed over 80 hours of volunteer trail work with the Appalachian Mountain Club. He will continue his education and rugby career at the University of Vermont. He is passionate about continue to pursue his love of the outdoors, music, and helping others through a career in social work or education. 

‍

“Erik entered the program eager to get started, making it to pre-season camp a week before the start of school to better integrate into the rugby program. His intention, engagement, coachability, work ethic and talent set him apart quickly, with the coaching staff immediately identifying the potential. From the start, Erik has been fully committed to the team, his academics, and the efforts required to excel in each. Throughout the season Erik Rosenmeier became an integral part of our success and cohesion, rising from a promising alternate to a staunch A-Side starter at center moving from the regular season into the postseason. Without his relentless pursuit of excelling his rugby career, we would not have made the run we were able to achieve this season,” said Joseph Besl, University of Vermont Catamounts Head Coach.