I have begun to do some research about the players that we picked up after the draft. The only problem is that there is little published info on these players.

Anyway, today I was sitting in a Ford dealership waiting for my work truck to have a recall performed on it and I was thumbing through ESPN the mag. I usually don't read this but I had little selection. It was the April 2nd issue. So. I'm flipping through and I see an article titled "Rough and Rougher". I read on and find out it is an article on Shawn Paga.

For those of you who don't recognize the name, he was signed to the Vikings Sunday night. Shawn is #66 on your scorecard and #1 in your hearts. It just so happens that "Shawn is the BEST college rugby player playing on the best college rugby team in America." Shawn also played on the 99 world cup team, I think it said he was the MVP on the team. He has played in rugby matches with a broken foot, a broken thumb and a broken wrist. The article emphasizes Shawn toughness. The article goes on to say that he is small and a little older (25) and that he has a chance, all be it a small one to make a roster, but don't bet against it!

-- Randy (rf54@aol.com), April 24, 2001

Answers

I think David Dixon was a big time Rugby dude too. That is one mean ass sport. I used to lifeguard in college and the pool was right next to the Rugby field, so of course I would watch the Rugby matches instead of the swimmers. I had a good friend break his back and another his leg playing that game. Of course I'd always tease them about real men playing water polo, but besides a seperated shoulder and a couple of broken noses water polo does not lead to serious injuries. I say let him run down on kickoffs next to "The weapon" and create some havoc.

Speaking of "The weapon," I heard or read somewhere that he is one of a handfull of guys working out down in Cris Carter's boot camp. Just a hunch, but I would venture to guess he may have a thing or two to say about who replaces Viper. I'm going to get my #33 jersey if things go the way I think they may.

IZ

-- Iz (izmorrow@yahoo.com), April 25, 2001.