Photo By Airman Belinda Guachun-Chichay | U.S. Air Force Senior Airmen Patrick Tehrani (left), 607th Air Control Squadron...... read more read more
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LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. — At the 56th Fighter Wing, three Airmen are blending military duty with athletic achievement. These senior airmen excel as members of the U.S. Air Force Men’s Rugby 7s team and embody resilience, dedication, and passion. Their personal stories of overcoming challenges, seizing new opportunities, and building strong connections both on and off the field set the stage for a standout season.
Senior Airman Ryan Namasaka, 56th Medical Support Squadron medical laboratory technician, grew up in the bustling city of Nairobi, Kenya, facing significant challenges from an early age. Raised by his mother and later moving in with his aunt, Namasaka’s childhood was defined by resilience and determination. Rugby captivated him early on becoming a key part of his life.
As a high school freshman, he initially observed games from the sidelines but was urged by a coach to join the rugby team. He found a supportive community within the team and excelled in the sport.
"My father gave me a choice: if I graduated high school, he would help me move to America,” Namasaka chuckled, his eyes twinkling with a hint of humor. “But only if I finished my education in Kenya would I be allowed to join him here."
At the age of 17, he moved to California to live with his father, juggling multiple jobs and working toward an associate degree while pursuing rugby opportunities.
"When I applied to transfer my credits to San Diego State University, I was shocked by the high tuition and fees,” Namasaka explained, his eyebrows shot up in astonishment. “It was too much, and that’s when I realized I needed to find a way to get a free college education. That’s when I decided to join the Air Force."
In August 2022, he began Basic Military Training and later organized a rugby clinic for children during his technical training in Houston, Texas, demonstrating his love for the sport and commitment to his community.
Namasaka joined the U.S. Air Force Men’s Rugby 7s team and competed in the 2024 Armed Forces Men’s Rugby Championship in August. Despite finishing second, the team challenged the traditionally dominant Army and achieved impressive victories over the Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard. The match against the Army was particularly close, with the Air Force narrowly missing victory by just three points.
“Rugby has been valuable for me in both sports and my military career,” Namasaka conveyed with a warm tone. “The connections and support I’ve gained from playing have really helped with my communication and leadership skills, which are important in the Air Force. Plus, these skills have led to advancement in my career, like my recent promotion to senior airman below-the-zone.”
By embracing the belief that focusing on the right process leads to the desired outcomes, Namasaka shows how dedication and strategy pave the way to success.
“I understand that I can't control everything, but I can control my actions and stay committed to my goals,” Namasaka articulated with reflective insight. “Even if things don’t go as planned, I find comfort in knowing that I gave it my all and worked hard until the end with integrity.”
Senior Airman Patrick Tehrani, 607th Air Control Squadron weapons director, grew up in the lively borough of Queens, New York, with a mixed Iranian and Filipino heritage. His passion for rugby took root in middle school, swiftly becoming a large part of his life and shaping his sense of purpose and community.
Tehrani's first rugby experiences were filled with the vibrant energy of New York City. He recalls playing on urban fields in Queens, where the city's hum and the distant sounds of street life provided a dynamic backdrop to his games. The contrast between the city’s constant movement and the intense focus of rugby practice created a lively, electrifying environment.
On Roosevelt Island, rugby took on a unique style. Games were played with the East River as mesmerizing scenery, providing calm park views contrasting with the bustling city. The skyline of Manhattan and the occasional ferry gliding by added to the charm, while the gentle river breeze mingled with the shouts of players and the thud of the rugby ball, creating an unforgettable setting.
"Living on one income in New York is tough,” Tehrani emphasized, his voice reflecting the struggle. “My father's early passing and my mom's overtime work pushed me to become independent and self-reliant. I didn’t understand why he was taken so young, but I've learned to slowly accept it and grow from the experience. It made me mature quickly, and I've come to realize that we can't dwell too much on the past."
His stepfather’s support was crucial in his decision to join the military. These experiences with resilience and independence helped Tehrani adapt smoothly to military life.
"As one of the team captains this year, I made sure to listen to everyone's opinions and perspectives when we were planning our games,” Tehrani described with thoughtful deliberation. “Each person brings something unique to the table that can really improve how we play, so it's important that everyone feels heard. Even though rugby takes up a lot of my time, I’ve found a good balance between my duties as a weapons director and my role on the playing field."
Tehrani’s motivation stems from the saying “things happen for a reason,” shaping his approach to both his military career and rugby. He embraces challenges and setbacks as chances to grow, focusing on adjusting his approach instead of fixating on setbacks. In rugby, he directs his energy toward what he can control—effort, attitude, and teamwork—remaining motivated and contributing to a better team environment.
Representing the Air Force is a great honor for Tehrani. Wearing the Air Force jersey and competing on the field symbolizes his commitment to both rugby and military service. Despite the attention and criticism that come with this role, he fully accepts the challenge, focusing on excelling and proudly being an outstanding Airman.
Tehrani’s journey exemplifies the rewards of dedication and effort, a lesson shared by teammates Namasaka and Harris. His story illustrates that dedication opens doors and that military service offers a special perspective and path to success.
Senior Airman Calston Harris, 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron armament maintenance technician, was born in New Zealand and moved to the United States with his mother during his childhood.
“When I was around 12, my dad, who was a professional rugby player in Australia, moved to California with my mom and me,” Harris recalled, his gaze softening with memory. “That’s when I first got into rugby.”
Growing up in Southern California, Harris spent many summer afternoons practicing rugby with his father. On lush, green fields, the crisp scent of freshly cut grass mingled with the vibrant hues all around them. Their laughter and the steady rhythm of the rugby ball echoed through the air as they took part in pick-up games and drills, gradually perfecting their play.
“Now that I’m on the team, my parents continue to support me in both my military service and my love for rugby,” Harris conveyed with a warm smile. “They’re really proud of what I’m doing, and it’s amazing to be able to combine a long-time passion with my career in the Air Force.”
Harris’s rugby journey with the Air Force began last year when he debuted as a rookie in a high-stakes game against the Navy. Stepping onto the field for the first time with the national team, the roar of the crowd and the intense energy of the game heightened his nerves, yet he was driven by the thrill of the moment.
“Even though I had limited playtime, the thrill of competing on such a big stage left a lasting impression on me,” Harris reflected with fondness. “The team’s hard-fought victory, marked by cheers and celebration, became a pivotal milestone in his early rugby career, solidifying his place on the team and igniting his passion for the sport.”
"The other teams in the competition are definitely strong and capable, which makes for great matches,” Harris explained with a tone of respect. “But in the end, we consistently come out on top against the other branches. Next year, we’re aiming to be the first team to beat the Army."
Instead of focusing on rivals’ strengths, the Air Force rugby team zeroes in on their own teamwork and unity, striving for excellence and collaboration on the field.
For Harris, rugby has revived a sense of strength and camaraderie that he missed during years of being less involved. The bond within the Air Force rugby team has renewed his passion for the sport and deepened the connections with his teammates. This strong sense of team spirit extends beyond the field, positively influencing his professional life by fostering better relationships and a more collaborative work environment.
“I’m really excited about what we can achieve in the 2025 Armed Forces Championship,” Harris declared with enthusiasm. “I believe we’ll have our strongest team yet when we go up against the Army. Determination is high among the team, with each member committed to achieving their goals for the upcoming season. The camaraderie extends beyond practice, with ongoing group messages and check-ins keeping everyone connected and motivated.”
To Harris, the rugby team feels like a second family. This support system will be especially meaningful as he invites many teammates to his wedding next year. The sense of belonging extends beyond the field, fostering lasting friendships that enrich his personal and professional life.
Senior Airmen Ryan Namasaka, Patrick Tehrani, and Calston Harris each exemplify the remarkable ways rugby and the Air Force shape their lives. Through rugby, they’ve forged deep friendships, enhanced their professional skills, and embraced values like teamwork and resilience. Their dedication on the field and in their military roles highlights a commitment to excellence that greatly strengthens their service. By connecting with local and international communities through competitive matches, they not only boost the Air Force’s global standing but also strengthen relationships worldwide. Their stories illustrate how the blend of sports and military service fosters a more connected and supportive community.
| Date Taken: | 09.12.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 09.13.2024 14:48 |
| Story ID: | 480802 |
| Location: | LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, ARIZONA, US |
| Web Views: | 418 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
This work, Luke Airmen Dominate Rugby Field, by Amn Belinda Guachun-Chichay, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
Luke Air Force Base
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