Schedule - Spring 2008
The Men's Rugby squad recently concluded a successful spring schedule with a 6-2 record. Included were games against the Bahamian National Team on the '08 Spring Break Rugby Tour and the prestigious Beast Of The East Tournament held in Providence, Rhode Island.
The club earned one victory in two games versus an experienced Bahamian club in Nassau. Both the Fairfield and Bahamian ruggers displayed their skills throughout the evenly matched contests. Fairfield eventually dominated the scrums, which led to their game two victory.
Besides taking in the breathtaking tropical environment, the club experienced many other benefits. The setting enabled them to interact with fellow ruggers on an international platform. Along with the competition, all members had the opportunity to engage their island hosts, learning more of each other's culture, heritage, religious beliefs and life experiences. Through their sport, the Red Ruggers established a camaraderie between Fairfield University and some of the island residents.
The club returned home to host a match versus Fordham on Fairfield's Lt. Hans Grauert Field. While Fordham fielded a club with experience and talent, the all-important scrums favored Fairfield, resulting in a well-earned 17-14 win.
Next up was Molloy College. Fairfield continued its domination of the scrums and opened up the field for their backs with an impressive 50-0 victory.
On the following weekend, a well established Yale club made the trip from New haven to test the Stags. In a hotly contested match, Fairfield capitalized on breakdowns and put forth another strong performance in the scrums. As a result, the club continued its winning ways with a 27-19 victory over the Bulldogs.
To end the season, Fairfield traveled to Providence, Rhode Island to compete in the 24th annual Beast of The East Tournament. On day one, the Red Ruggers left their mark. Playing championship caliber rugby, the Stags came up with big wins over both UMaine-Farmington and cross-town rival, Sacred Heart. The club dominated Farmington, shutting down their opponents 17-0. Competing less than 5 hours later, the Red Ruggers went on to defeat Sacred Heart 24-7.
On day two, Fairfield met their match in the ruggers from Salisbury. Having played only one match the day before, the Salisbury club proved to be well rested and well prepared to meet Fairfield. Salisbury went on to win 45-6.
The Fairfield Red Ruggers are looking forward to the Fall '08 season to build on their successful 2007-2008 campaign. They will be celebrating the club's 45th year of existence in the Fairfield red and white.
Congratulations to the graduating '08 Red Ruggers. GO STAGS!
