Unsung Hero - On The Field

Clayton Daume’s youthful appearance belies his 34 years.  The glint in his eyes and his infectious smile seem to be ever present whether he is talking about teaching or coaching his SMUS students; talking about or playing with the pride of his (and wife, Amanda’s) life, seven month old, Elliott; simply greeting one; or playing rugby football.

Daumer, like most of us, hails from elsewhere.  He was born in Calgary and attended Bishop Carroll H.S. where he started playing rugby in Grade 10.  He has been playing ever since, except for a short hiatus when he travelled and lived in Mexico and South America – un hombre de suerte!  His career has spanned three clubs; Calgary Hornets, UVic and CW.  His favorite position on the field is lock, or typical of such a piano mover, “in the engine room”.

Clayton recalls the person who was the greatest influence on his playing career being his H.S. coach, Peter Marchuk.  “Peter got me hooked in Grade 10 and then helped me get into UVic so I could keep playing and eventually move here permanently”.  Thank you, Peter!  Daumer is a self-effacing, modest man.  Probably very few would know that he played for Canada in the Junior World Cup in Wales on a team that finished in sixth place.  Other highlights have been; winning a B.C. Premiership with CW and touring to Argentina as a coach with the SMUS team.  Nice memories for his dedication to the game.  Clayton wants “to continue to coach and play for as long as possible and to get more kids hooked through coaching and touring and showing them my love of the game.”

Daumer, a H.S. Spanish teacher, recently co-opted his dad to call on his Spanish, in working with Alun Rees and Gustavo Verna, serving as hosts for The Argies at the ARC’s.  David has continued on with his service to the game, acting as food liaison officer for CW’s home games – a thankless but important job, as we maintain the value of post game traditions – a unique feature of our game.

So, why would it not surprise us when Clayton shares as a life goal, his desire; “to build water filters in Latin America to provide clean and safe water to those in need?”  Finally, he hopes “to raise a family that loves the rugby community and CW family as much as I do.”  Daumer, you’re a beauty!  A man who puts team above self and readily fronts on the Ones if that’s the call, a great rugby example to younger players and a great citizen.  Ole, Daumer!