The Men's Rugby team dominated on Saturday, April 30 2022 against Univeristy of Dallas (UD) to bring home the first ever National Championship title to Norco College (NC)!
The team won against UD in the American College Rugby (ACR) D2 Championship game 59-28. The Mustangs came out strong scoring early in the first half and at the start of the second half, NC was up 33-7.
This win is the first championship for NC and is an amazing accomplishment for the athletics program. Athletic Director, Mark Hartley stated, "I am blown away at the excitement level that it has brought to our campus. To be around such a classy group of men, who I have always seen as champions, to know they are finally getting the recognition they deserve is extremely gratifying."
Inside center, Jesse Hamilton was a leader for the offense and lead the team in scoring. Hamilton had 4 of the 9 tries completed by the Mustangs, earning him the game MVP. "All the work, early mornings and late nights, paid off." Hamiliton stated. He credits his teammates for all their support, "Without this great group of guys, it would not have been possible. The best highlights and the best plays I have in the game are because of them."
Winger, Dennis "Tre" Kersee III completed 2 tries and showed tenacity both on the offensive and defensive side.
Fullback, Jacob Juvera, left UD in the dust as he ran 80 yards for a try.
Captain, Hunter Hudspeth managed the offsense and completed one try.
Flanker, Mangisi Moala also completed one of the tries for the Mustangs.
Yashmeet Singh converted 7 out of 8 attempted tries scoring 14 points for NC. Dominick Ayala coverted one try for the Mustangs. Captain Singh tells us, "To go undefeated in regular season and take it all the way to the national championship and win is amazing."
Flanker, Josaiah Tanielu lead the defense in tackles. Coach Brian Hudspeth stated, "The forwards dominated the opposition which allowed the backline to use their speed, agility and skill to score."
Stay tuned for more exciting news to come from our Rugby team!