Introducing the Inaugural Mr. Rugby Finalists
- Sal Madonna
- Jun 1
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 6
The inaugural Mr. Rugby Award was created to recognize the top senior and underclassmen leaders in Michigan high school rugby student-athletes who represent excellence on the field, leadership within their programs and the values that make rugby unique.
The finalists for the first-ever award come from across the state and represent programs that continue to elevate Michigan rugby. From powerhouse programs to growing clubs, each nominee has left a lasting impact on teammates, coaches, and opponents alike.
The Finalists
Brighton Bulldogs — Lukas Stone 2026 | #12
A four-year player for Brighton, Lukas Stone has been one of the Bulldogs’ most consistent performers, leading the team in both tackles and scoring during the last two seasons. Known for his versatility, Stone shifted into the backline at inside center following injuries and never hesitated to do what was best for the team.
Off the field, Stone helped grow the Brighton program through recruiting efforts while maintaining a 3.5 GPA throughout high school. He plans to continue his rugby career at Michigan State University next season.
“Lukas is a fantastic player, and a stellar example of what a high school rugby player looks like,” said Brighton head coach Will Stewart.
Detroit Catholic Central Shamrocks — Joshua Peters 2026 | #9
Joshua Peters has established himself as one of the premier players not only in Michigan, but nationally. A four-year starter and multi-year captain at Detroit Catholic Central, Peters is currently ranked the No. 8 player in the country by PrepRugbyWatch and has earned multiple All-State and All-Conference honors.
Peters has competed with elite select-side programs including Panther Rugby Academy and the Ohio Aviators, consistently testing himself against top competition. Earlier this season, Peters suffered a torn shoulder labrum against St. Ignatius, an injury that required surgery. Despite the setback, he returned later in the season in a reduced role to support his teammates.
His Coach Ian Ronayne described him as the embodiment of toughness, humility and selflessness. Peters has committed to Army West Point, where he will continue both his rugby and academic career while preparing to serve the country.
Kentwood Reds — Mario Trice 2026 | #5
Mario Trice is the definition of a rugby ambassador. A three-year player at East Kentwood, Trice’s impact extends far beyond match day.
Known for his passion for the game, Trice recruits players into the sport, creates training videos and constantly energizes teammates before matches. His coach praised him for embodying the rugby spirit and helping grow the game within his community.
Detroit Loyola/Lamphere HS — Austin Maczuga 2026 | #7
A three-year starter and senior captain for Loyola RFC, Austin Maczuga has built a reputation as one of the top lineout jumpers in the league and a player with exceptional rugby IQ.
Maczuga and his twin brother Mason embraced the opportunity to travel from Lamphere to compete for Loyola RFC without hesitation. His coach praised Austin’s dedication, adaptability, temperament and leadership, calling him one of the most impressive players he has coached in nearly three decades of high school rugby.
Rockford Rams — Ryan Tomasko 2026 | #6
Rockford’s Ryan Tomasko earned finalist honors after establishing himself as one of the key forwards in one of Michigan’s top programs. Known for his physicality and work rate, Tomasko played a major role in Rockford’s success throughout the season.
West Ottawa Panthers — Alex Carrier 2027 | #2
One of the few underclassmen finalists, West Ottawa’s Alex Carrier has already emerged as a commanding leader for the Panthers.
Carrier is known for holding both teammates and coaches accountable while demanding maximum effort from everyone around him. His coach emphasized that West Ottawa becomes a different team whenever Carrier takes the field because of the energy, encouragement and intensity he brings to the pitch.
Carrier hopes to continue his rugby career at a military academy in the future.
Forest Hills United — Levi Silvernale 2026 | #10
Forest Hills standout Levi Silvernale has become one of the most respected players in the state because of his versatility, leadership, and rugby knowledge.
Able to contribute in both the forwards and backs, Silvernale is recognized for his kicking ability, game management, and understanding of the sport well beyond the typical high school level. United Head Coach Jared Ross also highlighted the respect and composure he consistently shows on and off the field. Silvernale will be heading to Annapolis in the fall.
St. Joseph Bears — Riley Halverson 2026 | #2
As the starting hooker for St. Joseph, Riley Halverson has helped lay the foundation for a growing program. Described as a leader on and off the field, Halverson is known for maintaining composure during matches while serving as one of the central figures in building the team’s culture and identity.
Birmingham Buccaneers — Ronin Schlesener 2026 | #8
A four-year player and team captain, Ronin Schlesener has been one of Birmingham’s emotional and physical leaders throughout his career.
Schlesener is recognized for his explosive ball carrying and aggressive defense, but his impact extended even further this season after suffering a knee injury. Despite missing matches, he remained heavily involved at practices and helped mentor younger players before returning to continue leading on the field.
Buccaneers Head Coach Chris Steggall also emphasized the relationships Schlesener has built with players across Michigan and neighboring states, representing the camaraderie and respect that define rugby culture.
The inaugural Mr. Rugby Award represents more than statistics or accolades. Each finalist has demonstrated leadership, toughness, sportsmanship and a commitment to growing the game within their communities. As Michigan high school rugby continues to expand, these players have helped set the standard for what the future of the sport can look like.
Comments