 Karen Signoracci STAFF REPORTER With a 27-2 victory Saturday over Slippery Rock, the UD men’s rugby team is headed for the national playoffs next spring. With the victory, UD moved into the one of the final 16 spots left for the Division II tournament. The team is pleased with its success. "After winning all these games, we’re finally able to prove something to other rugby teams and gain respect for ourselves," senior Tim Flanagan said. "We want to continue these winning ways and bring UD home a title." The national playoffs are conducted in two separate tournaments. They will play the first and second round in April and the semifinals in May. Senior Dave Ristaino, sophomore Jason Staraitis, and freshman Chuck Deree were the team’s scorers, but the whole team put forth the kind of effort needed to win the critical game and the tournament. "It was a great opportunity as a freshman to be a part of a great squad," Deree said. "We’re an outstanding team and had a terrific season. We’re not done yet, we’re looking forward to nationals next." As the rugby team heads into the off-season, they are proud of their many accomplishments this season. They will take a small break for the winter and begin again in the spring to prepare for nationals. Senior Jason Huart said he will really miss the camaraderie he shared with his teammates throughout the season. "I’m really glad we came together as a team," Huart said. "We are close teammates, not just a bunch of guys out there playing." |