RJ Bifani

While RJ Bifani’s greatest contribution to the Monmouth Rugby Football Club may have been his role in developing and managing the clubhouse, we would be remiss without remembering him first as a player. RJ joined the club at the ripe young age of 16, and through years of experience became known for his devastating tackling ability as well as his strong running from both centers. In order to earn his reputation as such an aggressive runner and defender, he earned another playing distinction of using more tape than most clubs would use as a whole; not to mention the eye black he would apply.

But it was in 1994, at the awards banquet, that RJ set up an easel and demonstrated what his plan was for the club. He described lots in Red Bank that could be transitioned and used as a clubhouse, using funds that had been collected over the years of running the Jersey Shore tournament. Although there was some initial kickback, about the priority of having a clubhouse near a field, RJ ultimately won out and with the assistance of all around him, began the Wilde Rover project. His dedication and zeal should not be lost, as he sacrificed time and energy, as well as putting up a personal assurance against the mortgage (as did 2007 inductee Frank Fischer). The clubs three properties were bought for just over a hundred thousand dollars and now value themselves over a million. Besides, Thompson is right around the corner anyway…

RJ still lives and works in the Red Bank area. He served as a councilman for Red Bank for many years, and has always used his personal and professional relationships to aid the club no matter what the cause – RJ’s aim has always been true.