Central Washington University Athletics

ELLENSBURG, Wash.- The Central Washington University women's rugby team looks to avenge their 46-24 loss to No. 2 Quinnipiac University at the National Intercollegiate Rugby Association (NIRA) Championship last season this Saturday at 11 a.m. PST at the Wildcat Rugby Pitch.
 
"Quinnipiac will be a huge game for us," CWU interim head coach Trevor Richards said. "Not only is it homecoming weekend, but it's also one of our fiercest rivals. They're clearly a quality side and we will be wanting to redeem ourselves after our loss in the national title game last year. Quinnipiac have some dynamic players, so no doubt it will be our biggest test yet. Our women have been working really hard and I'm happy with our growth as a unit. I'm hoping the wind keeps down this week so we can have a freer flowing game. Regardless, this will be an entertaining match and I can't wait for that whistle to blow."
 
The NIRA released their first public coaches poll of the 2017 season this week with the Wildcats coming in at third overall. Dartmouth topped the poll after collecting nine first-place votes, followed by defending NIRA Champions Quinnipiac University who earned the remaining four first-place votes of the week.
 
The NIRA consists of 16 NCAA-sponsored schools with varsity rugby programs across three divisions. As collegiate programs around the country improve on the field as well as off of it, earning more and more support from their respective institutions, NIRA is dedicated to assisting said programs transition to NCAA status.
 
The Wildcats (1-2) will attempt to bounce back following a hard fought battle against Life University last Saturday. Sophomore Suiluana A'au scored a pair of tries to lead the Wildcats against the Running Eagles and senior Emma Leonard chipped in a try of her own, but Life ultimately came away with a 22-15 victory.
 
Led by senior Jessica Maricich, Quinnipiac (4-1) opened their fall campaign with a 44-22 victory over Army West Point before falling to No. 1 Dartmouth, 17-22. The Bobcats responded to just their second loss in two years by defeating Norwich (52-7), Penn State (36-27) and American International College (60-24). Quinnipiac travels to Ellensburg currently riding a three-match win streak.
 
The Wildcats handed Quinnipiac their only loss of the 2016 season with a 19-12 home victory, however, the Bobcats defeated CWU, 46-24, in the NIRA National Championship.
 
Admission is free for all CWU students when gates open at 10 a.m. Tickets are $6 for adults, $3 for seniors and youth, and $3 for emeritus faculty tickets.
 
-CWU-