ELLENSBURG, Wash. - The Central Washington University women's rugby team is set to take on the Life University Running Eagles in the D1 Elite Semifinals on Saturday, Nov. 19, at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.
 
"We have been taking every week this season as a Final and this week is no different," Head Coach Matthew Ramirez said. "I am excited with the mindset and leadership this team has been exhibiting in preparation for the semifinals and can't wait for Saturday to get here."
 
The Running Eagles are 3-2 on the year, with both of their losses coming to Lindenwood. Two weeks ago the Wildcats and Running Eagles battled at Tomlinson Stadium, with the 'Cats falling 15-19.
 
After the Wildcats took a 10-7 lead into halftime, Life surged back, scoring 12 points in the second half to defeat CWU. On the day, Maleena Mero, Malia Ili, and Lilly Thomas scored tries for the 'Cats.
 
"What this team has done in less than 70 days since it's been assembled has been truly extraordinary," Coach Ramirez said. "We entered the season knowing we had a steep learning curve moving to a Fall season with a young team. Looking back through these past couple of months, I am extremely proud of what the squad has accomplished. But it's fair to say we aren't satisfied yet.
 
The Wildcats will look to fix their mistakes and strike revenge on the Running Eagles and advance to the D1 Elite Final.
 
"To see young players step up the way they have mixed with the competitive drive of the veterans puts us in a great position for this weekend," Coach Ramirez said. "We have been diving into film and had a great couple of weeks of install. Just excited for them to get out there and have a go against a quality team in Life, especially after such a close match on the last outing. How can you not be excited about this weekend?!"
 
MATCH INFORMATION
Saturday, Nov. 17
11:00 AM EST / 8:00 AM PST
Vs. Life
Naval Academy
Annapolis, Md.