Athletes around Moore: Dylan Giltzow
Dylan is in the 11th grade and just completed his first season on the football team. His passion is rugby, although one of the fastest growing sports in our area, it is not yet a high school sport in Moore County. Dylan has been playing for Southern Pines Youth Rugby for three years and is currently playing for the high school boy’s team, the Jokers.
“I love the grit and the culture of this sport. It truly is like no other! You are on the rugby pitch all day and then encouraged to hangout with your opponents! The rugby culture teaches you how to respect your opponent. If you don’t respect your opponent, you can’t hang with them afterwards,” said Dylan.
Dylan thanks his mom Melissa Giltzow for his love of the sport. “Rugby has always been a part of my life. Since I was born, my mom has shared her love and experiences of the sport of rugby with my siblings and I. My mom was a student, rugby player and the women’s coach at Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania back in the late 90s. My dad (Jeff Giltzow) used to go watch her play. Her stories and photos are awesome,” said Dylan. “The sport has always intrigued me, but wasn’t interested until the fall of 2021. I expressed interest in playing to my mom and we immediately researched and found Southern Pines Youth Rugby right here in Moore County. I have been a proud Joker ever since.”
Dylan’s team, the Jokers and other teams from Southern Pines Youth Rudby, began their practices in January for their new season. “I’m excited to learn even more about the sport of rugby from the Jokers coaching crew. They are an amazing body of rugby knowledge. On the pitch, I am looking to help lead the Jokers to winning season and inspire more High School aged athletes to come out and play. This is a true sport built for everyone. I encourage everyone to give it a try,” said Dylan.
Dylan’s coach, Gus Remmington, spoke about Dylan’s success and role on the Jokers. “Dylan has become a formidable force on the rugby field, showcasing exceptional talent and determination. Dylan displays a level of maturity and commitment that sets him apart; he demonstrates remarkable skill in handling the game’s physical demands, combining speed, strength, and strategic thinking on the field. Dylan’s passion for rugby is evident in his relentless pursuit of excellence in training sessions and competitive matches,” said Remmington. “Beyond his prowess, Dylan contributes significantly to team dynamics, fostering unity and camaraderie among teammates. Dylan represents the future of rugby and embodies the qualities of resilience and sportsmanship that make him a standout player.”
Photo of Dylan taken by JSK Photography
Dylan will be traveling to Japan in June of this year with the NCYRU (North Carolina Youth Rugby Union) All-Star team. “I am excited to be playing with these amazing athletes and working with the coaches,” said Dylan. “I’m most excited to experience rugby internationally with my fellow all star teammates and coaches. I am also looking forward to making new rugby connections throughout the world.”
“I am very grateful for this opportunity. I am thankful to my parents, siblings, and teammates for supporting me as I prepare for this trip,” said Dylan.
Written by Curtis Self, Photos by JSK photography.
Registration deadline for SPYR is February 1st. For more information, visit www.southernpinesyouthrugby.com
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This article is sponsored by Southern Pines Youth Rugby. Now taking registration until February 2, No experience needed. Visit www.southernpinesyouthrugby.com for more information.
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