It's just the first week of action in women's D1 college rugby, and already it's getting wild — here are three events we noticed.
Women's D1 Elite Rankings Updated
1. #7 Harvard beat #3 Quinnipiac
There's an ongoing debate about whether a rugby scholarship to any college is better than playing rugby (and paying for it) at a prestigious college is the way to go. For some, the education benefit at a less-well-known college is still strong, and the lack of debt a nice benefit.
But Harvard's got it going both ways, with financial support for players and the most recognizable collegiate name this side of Heidelberg. It seems like it was just a matter of time that the Ruggers of Cambridge would leave a serious footprint on the national stage, and they did it this past weekend, beating two-time defending National Varsity champion Quinnipiac 32-19.
Sofie Fella, Cassidy Bargell, Sarah Lipson, Milan Roberts, Arianna Romero, and Grace Chao all scored in a fairly even attack from the Crimson.
2. Dartmouth Slams Notre Dame College
Dartmouth got off to a strong start with a 74-5 defeat of Notre Dame College which once again showcases the gap between the very top and the next level. Camille Johnson scored 32 points for the Big Green with four tries and six conversions.
"We had quite a few players on debut today and we are thrilled with the impact they made straight out of the gate," said Dartmouth head coach Katie Dowty. "Which is a testament to both the hard work they have put in this preseason and the guidance of our senior players."
3. Wildcats Go Rogue
Well, not rogue, exactly, but the Central Washington Wildcats have taken a look at the requirements of being in NIRA, and have opted out. The National Intercollegiate Rugby Association has much to recommend it, especially the idea that we can have a true real-varsity collegiate competition.
But . . . it doesn't happen everywhere, and it won't, in all likelihood. So elevated club or quasi-varsity teams still play, and are still good. Will we see a combination of these groups ... say a non-varsity championship league and a varsity championship, and then a winner-take-all game? Would be nice. We'll see.