As we all get ready for a new season of Aggie Rugby, let’s take a quick minute to look back on how last year’s team finished up as they waged battle in arguably the toughest collegiate rugby conference in the United States.
After starting the ‘23-24 California Conference season with a nice home win over Sac State (36-12), Davis suffered defeat to eventual D1A National Champions St. Mary’s College at home. The boys bounced back though with solid wins over UC Santa Cruz (50-14) at home and San Diego State (42-31) on the road. Unfortunately, that was followed up with 3 straight losses to UCSB, Cal Poly and Long Beach State. This led to a season finale against Santa Clara at home on Seniors Day that proved to be one of the most exciting UCD matches in recent history, reflecting the epitome of Aggie Pride.
Mike O’Donnell drags defenders in for a try against the Broncos.
In the finale, the Aggies started strong and scored quickly, but the Broncs countered their early momentum and at one point went up by 27 points. It looked to many like it could be a sour end to the season for Davis. But the boys rallied in the second half for what was described as one of the best comebacks in Russell Field history. The final scoring surge featured a great run by second row Max Burns, who blew through the Santa Clara midfield after a lovely short ball from Captain Francis Schumann. As Burns dragged defenders towards the Santa Clara try line, within 10 meters of the line, he produced a beautiful offload to loose head prop Jack Hansen who crashed it over the line for a try, bringing the boys within striking distance at 35-41.
Jack Hansen on the move.
Then with less than 2 minutes remaining, the Aggies gathered the kick-off and went through multiple phases before Captain Schumann crossed the line for a try, making the score 40-41 with the clock in the red. A few moments later, Schumann caught his breath and calmly slotted the conversion to give Davis the win with a final score of 42 to 41!
Aggie Pride!
It was an especially great finale for the Seniors and for the whole club.
Davis finished the season with a 4-4 record in conference. More importantly they left the field with memories and friendships to last a lifetime.
Beyond UCD Rugby, shout out to Mike O’Donnell, Harrison Wheeler and Francis Schumann for their selections to the California Grizzlies Conference representative side as well. This was a tremendous honor, and followed in a long line of former Aggies who were selected for rep-side honors as a result of their efforts for Davis. Great job to all!
Next up… 2024-2025…
If you are in a position to help the boys get ready for the upcoming season, please consider supporting our club by visiting ucdavisrugby.com/donate and sharing whatever you can. As a club sport, they rely on generous contributions from supporters like you. Thank you and Go Ags! 🐴🏉