QUINCY, MA – The Nazareth men's rugby team traveled to Massachusetts on Saturday to compete in the Monumental 7s Tournament, facing a challenging slate of opponents in pool play. The Golden Flyers squared off against American International College, Kutztown University, and Siena University, gaining valuable experience against several nationally competitive programs.
 
How It Happened:

• Nazareth opened the tournament against American International College, falling 43-0 in the first match of the day. Missing several key starters, the Golden Flyers faced a tough early test against an AIC squad considered a potential National Collegiate Rugby Elite 8 finalist this spring. Turnovers and missed tackles made it difficult for Nazareth to settle in, while AIC's combination of size, speed, and experience proved difficult to contain.
• The Golden Flyers quickly turned around to face Kutztown University in their second match. Kutztown, a national championship contender in NCR Spring 7s this season, ultimately earned a 50-0 victory. Despite the scoreline, Nazareth showed improvement in its second outing, executing better throughout the match. Kutztown's well-organized systems, experience, and physicality helped them control the game. Kutztown later went on to win the Monumental 7s Tournament, earning an automatic bid to the National Collegiate Rugby Championships in April.
• Nazareth closed pool play against Siena University, delivering its strongest performance of the day in a tightly contested 28-21 battle. Siena, another team expected to make a deep run in postseason play this spring, was pushed to the final moments by the resilient Golden Flyers.
• The match remained back and forth throughout as Nazareth adjusted and improved as the day progressed. Despite dealing with additional injuries, the Golden Flyers dug deep and played their best rugby of the tournament. Defensively, Nazareth was more connected and physical in tackles, helping keep the game within reach.

Game Notes:

• Strong carries from sophomore Austin Gillis and freshman Zak Zaddem helped Nazareth move the ball forward and create attacking opportunities.
• Freshman Kameron Walls led the scoring with two tries (10 points), including a powerful run up the middle and another tough effort breaking through multiple tackles to open the scoring for Nazareth.
• Senior Owen Barr added 11 points, converting three tries and scoring a try of his own late in the second half to tie the match at 21.
• Siena controlled possession on the final play of the game and eventually broke through the Nazareth defense with a well-executed switch play to secure the 28-21 victory.

What's Next:
Nazareth returns to action on March 28 at the Old Blue 7s Tournament in Mount Vernon, New York.