The Wayne State men’s and women’s Rugby teams played at the University of Iowa last weekend. The women’s team went 2-0 while the men’s team went 1-1.

Wayne State College is well known for its rugby program. With each school year comes a new season, new players and new excitement from both the men’s and women’s teams.

The women crushed the University of Iowa, going 2-0 on Saturday, beating them 74-0 and 31-0. The University of Iowa did not stand a chance against a dominating Wayne State team.

“Iowa high school rugby is growing rapidly, and with a huge win over a flagship university such as the University of Iowa, it helps point their eyes at WSC for future college recruits,” said Darrin Barner,
head rugby coach.

The ’Cats ran a trick play that went untouched for 60 yards, leading to a score by Sam Warnake. The ’Cats also ran pro rugby multi-phased
plays three times that all led to scores for the wildcats.

“Since we have so many new players this year, we are focusing mainly on the skills of the game and the basics, and really just the team as a whole to make sure we keep improving properly,” said Shelbi Brown,
senior.

The Wildcats improved their overall record to 9-0 after easily defeating the University of Iowa.

“We have a lot of tools in our toolbox and they are being used as we approach the middle of the season,” said Barner.

The Wayne State men’s rugby team improved its overall record to 4-4 after going 1-1 Saturday against the University of Iowa Hawkeyes.

The Wildcats had a disappointing loss after being down only one score at halftime. The ’Cats had four opportunities to score in the first half while getting to the 10 yard line but could not produce a score.
Wayne State lost 28-49 in the first game and won 28-7 in the second.

Wayne State played even with the University of Iowa until midway of the second half but the Hawkeyes scored three times late in the second half of the game.

“We need to really focus on playing more as a team,” said sophomore Mitchell Burnett. “That is what is most important, and also improving defensively.”

The women’s rugby team will be back in action this Saturday against the University of Missouri and Kansas University. The men’s team will kick off against Washburn University and Benedictine College Saturday
afternoon.