blungold wrote:
"Life University competing as an NCAA institution is a bit of a joke."
Rugby is not governed by the NCAA. It is governed but the "Collegiate Rugby Association of America".
As BeggarEd pointed out, Cal does not offer scholarships for rugby. However, in the last few weeks, Arizona has started a scholarship program for Rugby. There were a couple of other major programs that started providing scholarships, but I can't recall who. I know BYU is supported by their athletic department even though they are not officially "varsity". It may well be that St. Marys is doing something proactive, but I'm not close to their program, so I can't say anything for sure. I've been watching Penn State and Notre Dame, who have been rumored to be elevating their teams to varsity status.
BTW, the Cal women lost to stanford for the national championship on Saturday night. They put up a good fight. But stanford's kicking game was really effective. They're a really good squad. Could probably beat their "men"! The Bears put up a valiant effort. But stanford is the reigning national champion, and the Bears are a step or two away from being where they need to be. They'll get there. I talked with a few of the girls, and one of the coaches after the men's game against Arizona and it's clear they possess the right attitude and desire. I'll watch them a little closer next year.
Cal's match against Life is going to be a bruiser. Eastern Rugby has really benefitted from bringing in lots of foreign players (especially Life) and that has elevated the east coast game big time. Having Lindenwood defeat an undefeated Navy team, then having Lindenwood lose to Life is a shocker altogether. Lindenwood, Life, Davenport, Army, Navy, Penn State and Arkansas State are all very solid programs. I haven't seen Life play yet this year, but they have always been ultra strong. Having Cal play them again will be a great view for sure.
