Rugby Faceoff In North Carolina

In a traditional southern rivalry match, the University of North Carolina faced off against North Carolina State for state bragging rights.  It was both Senior Night and Alumni Weekend for the 50th Anniversary of NC State Rugby that brought out one of the largest rugby crowds ever seen in Raleigh.  State did not disappoint their fans.

Two Senior Leaders started the scoring on the first play when Cam Jernigan gathered the ball at mid-field and passed to Steven Glass for a long try setting the tone for the night. State never looked back and went on to a 69-3 victory. Four Wolfpack ruggers scored their first tries of the season including Senior Patrick O'Shea who was returning from an injury earlier in the season.

State demonstrated tough inside play throughout the match with fierce rucking and by dominating the scrums.  The line push was led by Seniors TJ Dixon and Mikey Dotterer.  Senior backs Kyle Morris, Nik Foulkrod, Flo Prince and Rashad Alston also had strong performances for the Pack.  Second year Head Coach Brian Ketchem has built a strong program with a combination of returning experienced players and new recruits.  He said after the game that he will miss this group of Seniors who have been the leaders since he took over the head coaching reins.  

NC State, completing its best season in years finishing 4-1-1 within the ACRL Conference, has accepted an invitation to the ACRC Bowl Series and will play UMass at the Rugby Athletic Center in Charlotte NC on Friday, November 20 at 4:50PM. The Wolfpack will have the opportunity to bring the program into the national spotlight and set the tone for next year.