成人大片Rugby Club soars to first national championship
The 成人大片 Rugby Football Club, the Deadbirds, is flying higher than ever this spring as they prepare for their first-ever appearance in the Division II National Championship as a 15-member team. The team will face off against the University of Southern California at 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 4, at Kuntz Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.
This milestone moment comes after a dramatic 30-26 comeback victory over Ave Maria University in the Florida Collegiate Conference (FCC) Championship. Trailing by 10 points with only seven minutes left on the clock, 成人大片rallied in a remarkable comeback that showcased their character and unwavering belief in one another.
“These guys have worked so hard and sacrificed so much to earn this trip to nationals,” said Rich Alleger ('08), member of the Rugby Alumni Fund Board of Directors, former Deadbirds head coach ('11-'18) and captain ('06-'08). “Our team beat two varsity teams this year and our forwards were outrunning those teams in the last five minutes. Our players go the extra mile, they don’t have scholarships like varsity teams, so they must work other jobs and fundraise on top of their classes. Their dedication is top level.”
Founded in 2003, the Deadbirds have steadily built a reputation as one of the toughest and most resilient teams in the Southeast. Over the years, they’ve earned spots in the Collegiate Final Four, Elite Eight and Sweet Sixteen multiple times, and even competed at the NSCRO 7s National Championship.
In preparation for the national championship, the team has been training relentlessly, balancing twice-weekly practices, strength and conditioning sessions, and their academic responsibilities.
The Board of Directors, alumni and supporters stopped by practice on Tuesday to cheer on the team before heading to nationals.
“When you get there, it may feel like you are the underdog but look around and know that you deserve to be at this table,” Alleger told the team. “Be proud, go have fun and know that Osprey Nation is cheering you on!”
The journey to this year’s run to the Division II National Final has been a team effort both on and off the pitch. The newly launched 成人大片Rugby Alumni Fund has played a vital role, with former players, parents and supporters raising funds to support the team’s travel and equipment needs. Thanks to their generosity, the Deadbirds will take the national stage in new travel polos and training gear, representing 成人大片with pride.
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