Cardinals Begin Rugby Season Tomorrow

Wheeling, W.Va- The off-season has ended, players have returned to campus, and training camp has concluded. The Wheeling University Men’s Rugby team eagerly anticipates its season opener tomorrow afternoon, aiming for a strong start.

Last season,the Cardinals finished the Fall 15’s season with a 6-3 overall record. They reached the National collegiate Rugby (NCR) semifinal against Queens University of charlotte, but lost 33-22. Determined to improve, the Cardinals now strive to advance further and claim a championship trophy.

The team welcomes back key players,including senior Lawula Bata and sophomore Panashe Mugorogodi. Bata captains the squad after recovering from an injury that sidelined him during last year’s 15’s season.Mugorogodi ended last season second on the team with eight tries for 40 points; his speed will be crucial for the Cardinal offense.

Speed on the wings complements the need for size in the forwards, essential for winning scrums and providing opportunities for the outsides. Graduate student Navin Couch returns to bolster the team’s strength in the middle of the field.