Our Second Match of the Day Took Place Against Xavier University. Between Matches, We Reviewed

This weekend we played at the Cherry Blossom Tournament in DC. After canceling our first three matches and practicing for two and a half months, we were anxious to play rugby but also nervous about our competition. Our first match was scheduled for Saturday morning against American University. We played an aggressive game, attacking American before the ball got out to their backline and maintaining possession of our mauls and scrums. Jess Varner had a breakaway in the first 10 minutes and scored a try while Coley Chacos kicked for two extra points. All of our rookies were given the chance to play during the game, allowing them to finally engage in full, live rugby. Unfortunately we lost 12-7, but walked away proud of our attacking game and positive communication on the pitch.

Our second match of the day took place against Xavier University. Between matches, we reviewed our plays and discussed weaknesses from our American game, while Jodi and Jenny offered helpful suggestions. We walked out onto the field against Xavier with a fierce attitude and never let them in the game, shutting them out 14-0. Mitch and Renee McLane both scored tries while Barbara Woodbury kicked for extra points. Unfortunately one of our players sustained a serious injury during the last play of the game and had to be carried off the field (luckily she is ok now). The tournament was ill-equipped to handle such an emergency and did not have any medical staff on duty. Looking out for the safety of our players as well as out of respect for our teammate, we chose to forfeit our remaining matches.

I would like to thank Liz Lorah for pushing us at practice and building our strength and endurance. I'd also like to thank Deebo and Swami for reviewing our plays and coming out to practice to offer helpful suggestions that have made us a stronger team.

This has been a difficult season for us, but we came together this weekend as WVU Women's Rugby. We earned the respect of many teams Saturday with our intense desire to play rugby and do it without the guidance of a coach. Our participation and success at the Cherry Blossom would not have been possible without the patience and guidance from our captains, Jodi Richardson and Jenny Weidman, as well as officers Leah Cunningham and Diddy. We're excited to build on our accomplishments at the Chicken!