NEWS
CARDS OVER COCKS FOR DI-AA TITLE
The Louisville Cardinals have seized the Division I-AA National Championship title, overcoming the South Carolina Gamecocks with a decisive 26-12 victory in a thrilling final held in Boyds, Maryland. Louisville established early dominance, taking a commanding 14-0 lead into halftime and extending it to 26-0 before South Carolina managed to score two consolation tries; this championship run also included an impressive 28-0 semi-final win over West Chester, while South Carolina advanced to the final by defeating Texas A&M 15-10. Individual excellence shone brightly throughout the tournament, with Louisville's Amarreon McClaurin earning MVP honors after scoring five tries, tying for the division lead, and Babson first-year student David McMurtray leading all scorers with an outstanding 34 points from four tries and seven conversions. This triumph marks Louisville's second 7s title in just three years, having also claimed the championship in 2024, underscoring their consistent high performance and highlighting the fierce competition and burgeoning talent within US collegiate rugby, which continues to fuel the sport's growth nationwide.
THREE IN A ROW FOR WHEELING
The Wheeling Cardinals cemented their place in collegiate rugby history, securing an impressive third consecutive Premier Cup title at the 2026 Collegiate Rugby Championships with a narrow 14-12 victory. This thrilling final saw them overcome a strong challenge from two-time national champion Dartmouth, who took an early 5-0 lead following a dazzling Richard Wofford try. A pivotal moment occurred when Dartmouth's star Ethan Knight received a yellow card for tackling Shadreck Mandaza mid-tap, creating the opportunity for reigning Player of the Year and weekend MVP, Alex Nyamunda, to score two crucial tries for the Cardinals. Wheeling's path to the final included a hard-fought 17-10 semifinal win over Kutztown, while Dartmouth edged Notre Dame 10-7 in their own tense semifinal. Brown's junior Tito Edjua also showcased incredible talent, leading the Premier division in scoring with an astounding 56 points from eight tries and eight conversions. This highly competitive collegiate tournament, featuring dominant programs and emerging stars, is vital for developing the next generation of American rugby talent, underscoring a promising trajectory for the sport's growth and national team future.
Men's CRAA Rugby Nationals Kuntz Stadium
Indianapolis, IN, is once again at the epicenter of collegiate rugby excitement, as Kuntz Stadium hosts the highly anticipated Men’s CRAA National Championships. This premier event, organized by the Collegiate Rugby Association of America, promises an exhilarating display of power, speed, and skill, featuring the nation’s top student-athletes battling for ultimate glory. Rugby enthusiasts across the United States are keenly following the action, recognizing this championship as a crucial stepping stone for the sport's future trajectory. It offers a vital platform for showcasing emerging talent and reinforcing the depth of quality within the American collegiate rugby system. For many fans, these championships are not just about the immediate competition, but about identifying the next generation of professional and national team players who will elevate US rugby on the global stage. The intense rivalries and high stakes involved ensure every match at Kuntz Stadium delivers captivating rugby, solidifying its importance in the calendar for anyone passionate about the growth and success of rugby stateside.
Men's DIII Final Four Set
The NCR Men's Division III National Championship saw an intense opening day at the Maryland SoccerPlex, narrowing a field of 16 ambitious teams down to a formidable Final Four poised to battle for collegiate glory. In the East region, top-seeded Richmond asserted dominance with a commanding 33-5 victory over Providence before securing a tighter 19-14 win against Loyola (MD), setting up a compelling semifinal clash with second-seeded Slippery Rock, who advanced by defeating St. Thomas 26-14 and The Citadel 26-12. Out West, Springfield College, the top-ranked side, powered through with a decisive 30-7 triumph over St. Edwards and a 24-10 win against Montana, earning their semifinal spot against the University of Denver, who impressed with a 19-0 shutout of Susquehanna and a subsequent win over Duke. Beyond the team successes, the individual brilliance of Tate Peterson from St. Thomas and Patrick Brennan of Montana shone brightly, as both led all scorers with an identical 28 points, each recording four tries and four conversions, underscoring the high level of talent converging in this significant collegiate championship for US rugby development.
Upsets Shake Men's DII Final Four
Day one of the 2026 Collegiate Rugby Championship Men’s Division II competition delivered immediate drama, with unexpected upsets shaking the bracket and setting up a thrilling Final Four featuring UNC-Wilmington, Northwestern, Colorado Mesa, and Coastal Carolina. The biggest surprises came from Northwestern, who stunned Memphis 19-5 before taking down the No. 2 seed Grand Valley State with a dominant 21-10 performance, while out West, fourth-seeded Colorado Mesa made waves by defeating Vermont 17-12 and pulling off a significant 24-19 upset against top seed Miami (OH). East top seed UNC-Wilmington secured their semifinal berth with strong wins over Norwich (33-17) and Georgetown (19-7), as Coastal Carolina progressed by beating Towson 26-14 and Northern Iowa 26-19. Vermont senior Luca Race currently leads all scorers with an impressive 36 points, including a half-dozen tries and three conversions, highlighting individual brilliance amidst these team triumphs and signaling an exciting championship path that promises to showcase the next wave of talent vital for US rugby's future.
Texas A&M Shocks, Favorites Advance
The Men's Division I-AA quarterfinals delivered thrilling action and a significant upset, as three of the top four seeds advanced while Texas A&M shocked the field on day one of play. The Aggies, seeded fourth in the East bracket, carved a path of defiance, first defeating Babson 19-5 before stunning top-seeded N.C. State with a dominant 20-5 victory, setting up a semifinal clash against South Carolina. South Carolina earned their spot by defeating Temple 26-12 and Western Michigan 12-7, while in the West bracket, Louisville, the top seed, secured a tight 26-19 win over Nebraska before blanking Sam Houston State 34-0. West Chester also impressed, notching a 38-5 triumph over Oregon State and a nail-biting 17-15 edge over a formidable Northeastern side to advance. Amidst the team battles, Babson's first-year student David McMurtray emerged as the leading scorer with an impressive 30 points from four tries and five conversions, illustrating the high-caliber talent on display as these collegiate titans vie for national glory, which is crucial for the development and excitement of US rugby.
Men's Premier Four Teams Standing
Day one of the Men’s Premier Division collegiate rugby championships was a rollercoaster, as 32 hopeful teams were whittled down to just four semifinalists vying for the greatest prize in collegiate rugby. Only one No. 1 seed survived the "chaos," highlighting the intense competition and the depth of talent on display across the nation. Advancing to Saturday's semifinals are No. 2 seed Dartmouth, who dramatically upset top-seeded St. Bonaventure 10-7 with a try at the death, and No. 2 seed Notre Dame, who overcame No. 1 Walsh 24-17 after earlier victories, including a 19-0 shutout of San Diego. Meanwhile, No. 1 seed Wheeling lived up to its reputation in the West, dominating opponents like Indiana Tech (45-0) and Utah State (38-10) before defeating Belmont Abbey 29-10, with Wheeling's sophomore Shadreck Mandaza leading all scorers with 36 points (5 tries, 6 conversions) in three matches. Finally, No. 2 seed Kutztown also powered through the Midwest, triumphing 19-10 over No. 1 Indiana with a late surge, setting the stage for an thrilling conclusion to a dramatic tournament, showcasing the future of US rugby talent for fans nationwide.
CRAA Women’s Rugby 7s National Championships
Get ready to witness top-tier collegiate rugby action, as the CRAA Women’s Rugby 7s National Championships are poised to ignite Kuntz Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. This highly anticipated event, a cornerstone of the collegiate rugby calendar, promises to be one of the most electrifying showcases of talent and determination in the sport. Rugby fans nationwide should mark their calendars for what is undoubtedly a critical stage for the future stars of American rugby, offering a glimpse into the next generation of talent. The championships serve as a crucial platform for student athletes to demonstrate their prowess in the fast-paced, exciting format of Rugby 7s, a discipline growing rapidly in popularity across the United States. Beyond the immediate thrill of competition for national honors, the tournament highlights the incredible strength and depth of women’s collegiate rugby, contributing significantly to player development and the growth of the sport at all levels. Witnessing these exceptional athletes compete for the coveted title is not just about the game, it’s about supporting the vital pathway for future Olympians and national team members, making it an unmissable event for anyone passionate about the future of US rugby and the relentless pursuit of excellence within the collegiate ranks.
2026 Women's Rugby 7s Brackets Revealed
The eagerly anticipated brackets for the 2026 Women’s Collegiate Rugby Championship National 7s have been officially revealed, setting the stage for 64 top collegiate programs to converge at the Maryland Soccerplex across four divisions. In Division III, top-seeded Endicott pursues a third national title (2023, 2025 wins), challenged by Baldwin Wallace, while Division II sees defending 7s champ Coast Guard (two-seed, lost Player of the Year Kate Boggs) face top-seeded Roger Williams (2023 winners). DI-AA 7s and XVs champion Northeastern aims for an unprecedented third consecutive title as a top seed, contending with East top-seed James Madison. The Premier Cup spotlights Brown attempting an historic second four-peat, battling American International College (AIC) and XVs champion Southern Nazarene. This championship is crucial for US rugby talent development; fans can stream all matches on NCR TV ($19.99), with Sunday finals globally on All Women’s Sports Network.
2026 Collegiate Rugby 7s Brackets Locked
National Collegiate Rugby has officially unveiled the highly anticipated men’s brackets for the 2026 Collegiate Rugby Championship National 7s, setting the stage for 80 elite programs to clash at the Maryland Soccerplex. Defending champions UNC-Wilmington in Division II and Wheeling in the Premier Cup enter as top seeds, while 2025 DI-AA winner N.C. State leads the East, and Louisville, the 2024 champ, anchors the West in their division. The tournament is rich with captivating narratives, including Denver’s Anthony Rice, last year’s leading try scorer in Division III, and Premier Cup's Manu Taula, a Prusmack Award winner for St. Bonaventure, promising electrifying play. Adding to the drama, coaches like IUP's Seth Erwin and Norwich's Bob Weggler hope to cap illustrious careers with a final title. Meanwhile, Texas A&M’s Tui Osborne aims to make history as the first collegiate coach to win national titles with three different programs, and the 2-seed Southern Virginia, coached by former USMNT center Paul Lasike, looks to continue their upset run against formidable contenders like 2022 champion Kutztown, making this a must-watch event for the future of American rugby.
AWSN To Broadcast 2026 Collegiate Rugby 7s
National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) has announced a groundbreaking media rights partnership with the All Women’s Sports Network (AWSN) to globally broadcast the Women’s Championship matches of the 2026 Collegiate Rugby Championship (CRC) National 7s, marking a significant step for American collegiate rugby. This landmark deal will see the top 60 women's teams compete live on AWSN from Boyds, MD, on Sunday, April 26, at 1:00 PM ET, reaching over 1 billion people across 60-plus countries via the network co-founded by entertainment icon Whoopi Goldberg. With NCR’s women’s competition boasting 8,000 athletes across 320 clubs, this global platform offers unparalleled visibility for student-athletes and showcases the immense depth and growth of the sport in the U.S. As NCR Women’s Director Alycia Washington noted, this partnership is crucial for providing a "vital pipeline" for U.S. Women preparing for the 2028 Olympics, demonstrating the high-caliber talent emerging from the collegiate ranks to millions worldwide. Beyond the championship finals on AWSN, fans can still catch early-round and outer-field action through NCR’s existing digital platform, NCR TV, further investing in the continued rise and visibility of women’s rugby at every level.
CRAA Sets 2026 National Championship Brackets
The College Rugby Association of America (CRAA) has officially unveiled the highly anticipated 2026 Men's D1A National Championship and Challenger Cup Playoff brackets, igniting the postseason for 22 elite collegiate teams. The intense D1A National Championship path begins with initial playoff rounds on April 11, progressing through Quarterfinals on April 18 and Semifinals on April 25, culminating in a marquee D1A National Championship showdown between the University of California - Berkeley and the US Naval Academy at Kuntz Stadium in Indianapolis on May 2. Further expanding the competitive landscape, the D1A Challenger Cup will feature Ohio State, St. Thomas, Santa Clara, and UC Santa Cruz in play-in games, vying to face top seeds Davenport and Utah during the championship weekend. This action-packed Indianapolis event, spanning May 1-3, also encompasses the D1AA National Semifinals with matchups like Arizona State versus Iowa State, the D2 National Championship featuring California Lutheran and North Florida, and U23 Bowl games, solidifying Indianapolis as a crucial hub for collegiate rugby development. For US rugby fans, this comprehensive championship weekend offers a vital look at the sport's future stars and showcases the pinnacle of collegiate competition, with all games available to watch live on the CRAA Rugby YouTube channel.
One more weekend until Selection Saturday
The collegiate Spring 7s season is hurtling towards its climax with the "AQ-palooza" weekend, the final opportunity for teams across all divisions to secure automatic bids to the Championship bracket before the highly anticipated Selection Saturday. This crucial stretch includes two Men's Premier Cup qualifiers: the Stags 7s, featuring teams like Brown, who notched quality wins over St. Bonaventure and AIC but fell to Kutztown by just two points, and Dartmouth, led by All-Star Ethan Knight; and the Fools Gold 7s, where Utah State, champions at a recent UVU tournament, look strong alongside Oregon State and Colorado Mesa. The Gate City 7s serves as a double qualifier, with St. Bonaventure, featuring the speedy Elizabeth Lyons, aiming to dominate the Women's Premier Cup after beating Walsh twice at Frostbite 7s, while the DI-AA field sees already-qualified James Madison University contending with perennial powerhouses like Virginia, boasting All-Americans Milena Keene, Kate Delaney, and Taylor Wreath, and a strong Florida State squad. Northeastern has already punched their ticket in the Men's DI-AA bracket, but hosts UMass, a 2025 final four finisher, desperately need a big performance at their Minuteman 7s tournament after tough losses, including a 34-5 defeat to Babson, showcasing the high stakes for All-Stars Liam Pearl, John McGoey, and Colin Moriarty. With every team pushing for a final statement on their resume, this weekend is set to deliver thrilling rugby action as programs fight for their spot in Maryland, making every tackle and try critical for their national championship aspirations.
College Rugby Showcase St. John's Prep
National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) is set to host its annual College Rugby Showcase on May 2, returning to St. John’s Prep in Danvers, MA. This pivotal event, now in its fourth year, is a direct result of NCR’s strategic partnership with FirstPoint USA and aims to bridge the gap between talented high school rugby players and collegiate opportunities. Running from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the showcase will feature a high school player field session, a coaches’ panel discussion, and direct engagement with college programs, offering unparalleled insight for prospective student-athletes and their families. Universities such as Dartmouth, Harvard, Boston College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst have participated in prior years, underscoring the event's prestige and reach. Priced at $50 for players and $100 for college programs, this initiative is vital for connecting talent, fostering recruitment, and ultimately growing the game across the United States. It provides a crucial pathway for the next generation of US rugby stars, ensuring they find the right academic and athletic fit.
Women's 7s National Championship In Indianapolis
The stage is set for an electrifying weekend of collegiate rugby in Indianapolis, IN, as the Women's 7s National Championship prepares to ignite with elite action, promising high-stakes drama and breathtaking athleticism. Over 20 of the nation's top programs will descend upon the capital, all vying for collegiate supremacy in the fast-paced 7s format, with teams having battled through grueling regional qualifiers to earn their coveted spot. Fans can expect fierce competition as perennial contenders like defending champions Harvard Crimson and formidable challengers such as Lindenwood and Central Washington clash in pool play and knockout rounds, culminating in Sunday's highly anticipated championship final at IUPUI Michael A. Carroll Stadium, where national bragging rights will be on the line. With over 50 matches slated across the two-day event, every try and tackle will matter in the pursuit of national glory, offering non-stop excitement for spectators and scouts alike. This championship is not just about winning a title; it serves as a critical showcase for emerging talent, providing a vital pipeline for future USA Women's Eagles 7s squads, making it a must-watch event for anyone invested in the growth and success of US rugby and the future of the sport domestically.
FirstPoint USA NCR College Pathway Partner
National Collegiate Rugby announced a strategic partnership with FirstPoint USA to streamline the pathway for high school rugby talent into US collegiate programs. This collaboration aims to simplify recruitment, providing student-athletes with enhanced tools and connections to college teams across the nation.
Ohio State, Mines Qualify Over Easter Weekend
The road to the Collegiate Rugby Championship 7s Nationals saw two more teams secure their bids over the Easter weekend, significantly shaping the championship picture for US rugby fans. In the Wolverine 7s in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Northern Iowa emerged victorious, defeating Ohio State 26-12 in the championship match. While UNI is eyeing a Premier Cup at-large bid, the automatic qualifier for nationals went to runner-up Ohio State, who showcased their dominance earlier by shutting out Indiana and Adrian in pool play before narrowly beating archrival Michigan in the semifinals. Out west, the reigning XVs champion Colorado School of Mines dominated the High Peaks 7s, going undefeated with an impressive 5-0 record to punch their ticket to the Women's DIII national championship. The Orediggers proved their prowess by besting Western Oregon, Northern Colorado, Idaho State (twice), and New Mexico Tech on their way to qualification. These teams now join an increasingly competitive field, with Ohio State adding to a strong men's contingent including Florida, Iowa, and Arizona State, while Mines joins the likes of Drury and MiraCosta in the women's DIII bracket. With as many as sixteen additional teams poised to qualify on the final weekend, and all 144 teams and eight national championship brackets to be unveiled on Selection Saturday, April 18, the anticipation for college rugby's ultimate showdown is rapidly building.
Girls Rugby Nationals Head to Salt Lake
The future of American rugby is set to shine brightly as the Girls Rugby Nationals descend upon Salt Lake City on May 15-16, 2026, promising a landmark weekend for the sport. Over 30 teams from across the nation, including renowned club programs like Belmont Shore Rugby and SacAir Amazons, alongside single-school powerhouses such as Herriman Girls Varsity, Divine Savior Holy Angels, and Kahuku Rugby, will compete fiercely across High School, Club, and Middle School divisions at the Salt Lake Regional Athletic Complex. This event, strongly supported by USA Rugby CEO Bill Goren and USA Youth and High School Rugby President David Pool, is far more than just a tournament; it's a vital showcase of the undeniable growth and momentum behind girls' rugby nationwide. For US rugby fans, it offers an exciting glimpse at rising stars, creating crucial pathways for athletes by providing meaningful exposure to college recruiters and national team scouts. This championship weekend, encapsulating the inspiring message "Choose Brave. Choose Her.," aims to strengthen the foundation of women's rugby in the United States, building a true, visible high-performance pathway for American girls.
Broadcast Academy partners with National Collegiate Rugby
Broadcast Academy will supply over 20 trained commentators for the 2026 Collegiate Rugby Championship National 7s in April. This partnership marks the first time a broadcast education program has provided such a large contingent of talent for a major US rugby event, aiming to elevate the fan experience.
Just Two Weeks Until Selection Saturday
Only two weeks remain until Selection Saturday on April 18, 2026, when the field is set for the 2026 Collegiate Rugby Championships. This weekend offers a "calm before the storm" with just two crucial Automatic Qualifier tournaments determining direct berths to Maryland for the national championships. At the Wolverine 7s, hosted by Michigan,who recently suffered a 17-19 loss to Boise State and double-digit defeats to Wheeling and Aquinas,teams like the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) will battle for a Women's DI-AA spot. UNI, led by Morgan Linck and Macie Graves, is coming off a strong 4-1 showing at Cavalier 7s, their only major defeat being 22-7 to Wheeling. Meanwhile, the Women's DIII High Peaks 7s spotlights defending XVs National Champions Colorado School of Mines, featuring DIII Player of the Year “Primetime” Piper Lee, as heavy favorites aiming for a historic "22-skidoo" of both 15s and 7s national titles, with Western Oregon and hosts Northern Colorado also challenging for qualification. These critical events will shape the landscape for collegiate rugby's biggest stage, showcasing the talent pipeline that fuels US rugby's future.