Ernie L. Blake

Ernie Blake hails from South Portland Maine and graduated from USNA in 1964, with degrees in math and French. He served on nuclear submarines before leaving naval service and going to law school, earning a law degree from Duke University. Ernie joined the Washington, D.C., firm of Shaw-Pittman and worked 30 years there as an attorney on high profile environmental and energy issues. Following his life long love of skiing, Ernie moved to Breckenridge CO in 1997, served on the city council and was mayor from 2004 to 2008. Ernie and his wife Sharon Magness Blake are extensive philanthropists as well as avid horse ranchers. Ernie was extensively involved in the start of rugby as an organized sport at Navy and was on the original 1963 team. More recently he has been instrumental in the success of the Rugby Excellence Fund in sponsoring the construction of the Jon Prusmack Rugby Center including the two lighted competition pitches named Ernie Blake Field #1 and #2 in recognition of his and Sharon’s gifts and efforts. He continues to be keenly involved in Navy rugby as a member of the Board of Directors and a Class Team Captain.