LSU Wins Challenger Trophy
Louisiana State won the Challenger Trophy at the USA 7s Collegiate Rugby Championships this past Sunday. LSU beat out Notre Dame 24-0. LSU put out a great showing considering there was a last minute coaching change. LSU’s coach Jeff Reuther was called away to play for his club team in the USA club finals. Julie McCoy, former USA Women 7s coach quickly stepped in. This kind of change could be detrimental to a team’s success, but LSU thrived under her direction to keep the ball moving.
LSU got off to an early start when Notre Dame kicked downfield hoping to gain some territory, but unfortunately for Notre Dame; LSU fielded the ball giving them a 7-0 lead. The rugby trophy was in LSU’s hands in the second half where their continuous ball movement and momentum tried out Notre Dame and their lead increased to 12-0.
LSU’s win was a direct result of teamwork. Their ability to move the ball is a testament to how well the team works together. According to Coach McCoy they do not have any superstars on their team, there isn’t one player that can be credited for the team’s success. The entire team deserves to take the Challenger Trophy home.