On Saturday, April 6, the Plymouth State College Women’s Rugby team traveled to Keene State College to defeat their oldest rivals in a 46-0 shut-out. It was a cold blustery day and the athletes were shivering as the ref blew the whistle and the Panthers kicked off into a flock of Owls. From that very first play when Plymouth sprinted forward to tackle their opponents, PSC knew it was going to be a high intensity, aggressive game; they also know that that is the very best kind of rugby.
With frozen fingers Plymouth dropped a few anxious passes, but recovered well and kept up the pressure by supporting each other well and providing formidable offense. Both teams were playing with many inexperienced team members which made for a messy game. However, it was also educational and Plymouth walked away better for the experience. The Panthers knew it was an eye-opener for them to once again feel the exhilaration of tackling an opponent so hard that she grunts as she hits the ground. Whether it was feeling that thrill for a hundredth time, or for the very first, each player came to understand what the game of rugby is all about; picking yourself up and hitting again, and again, and again.
Captains Maegan Roussin and Tarsha Pageau tried to keep the lines of communication open despite the wind blowing away screams of encouragement and direction. Rookie and veteran players alike showed aggression and desire for a win as they drove the ball into the tri zone time after time. Eighth woman, Jen Sinacore, ran with agility and set many hard rucks as did fullback Jen Nedoroscik. Many players stepped up and tried their hands at new positions due to injury and fatigue, but all showed good endurance and positive attitudes- which are imperative to having a winning team, as any seasoned rugger knows.
Scrumhalf Molly Moulton was wise to say that Plymouth players showed aggression and skills that can not be learned, but are essential to the game of Rugby. Plymouth walked away from the pitch knowing that all played hard and well, if a little more aware of where faults can be found. Next weekend Panthers travels to Long Island and tries their paws (as well as the rest of their bruised bodies) at a tournament with the same desire to win, as well as the improvement from a week of intense practice and hard work.