GREG “HONDA” KRATZ

Gregory Kratz, more commonly known in the Nebraska Rugby community as “Honda,” played winger and fullback for UNL from 2000 -’05 and was occasionally called upon to play scrumhalf when Kevin Koss was in the sin bin.  Throughout his time at Nebraska, Kratz would dazzle crowds with his speed and fancy footwork which, thankfully, made up for his abhorrent kicking abilities.  Kratz also coached backs for UNL in 2009 -’11 and played with the Omaha GOATS in 2010. 

Kratz served as an artillery officer in the Marine Corps from 2011 -’20 and had the honor of serving as the Battery Commander of Q Battery, 5th Battalion, 14th Marines from 2017 -’19.  Many of the lessons learned from Coach Niko about teamwork, camaraderie, and discipline became the foundation of his command philosophy and the standard for the many Marines he led. 

Originally from Omaha, Kratz now practices law in Fairbury, Nebraska where he lives with his wife Christie, and sons David (6), Luke (4) and James (3).