Saint Michael’s Women’s Rugby is more than just a club sport; it’s a team, a sisterhood, and most importantly a family. Women on the team come from all different backgrounds, sports, and athletic levels, but come together to form one cohesive group. The majority of players on the team have never played rugby before college, but practice hard to compete on a Division II level. Saturday is a rugby day, and the team practices every Tuesday through Friday in order to be ready.
In 2012, the team was invited to play in the national championships. Most recently, SMC women’s rugby had the top number of players elected into All-Conference than any other team in the league. During preseason this past year, the girls were able to attend a two-day camp with The Burlington Women’s team where they were coached by USA national coaches and players. As true competitors, girls on the team donate their time, bodies, and mental strength in order to play at the highest possible level.
Other than play rugby, the team attends different charity walks, sponsors book drives, and participates in countless other philanthropic programs. The team is also responsible for raising additional funds for costs associated with playing. After games parents bring a spread of homemade food for all the girls to enjoy. 13 girls from the team participated in a 10 mile long obstacle course called the Tough Mudder this past summer. All proceeds went to the Wounded Warrior Project to benefit soldiers injured in battle. The team plans on making this a tradition and participating each year. This club sport is a way of life for many of the girls and they are proud to say that they belong to the organization. Attend any game and you will hear the chant, “Our lady of victory pray for us, Saint Michael’s defend us, SMCRFC who!”
