UofL Rugby Club wins national championship

The University of Louisville Rugby Club has secured the Collegiate Rugby Championship Division 1 national title. They finished with a 4-0 record, outsourcing opponents 114-5, leading to victory as the 2024 Division 1 7’s National Champions. The tournament was held just outside of Washington D.C. at the Maryland SoccerPlex April 26-27. 

On-field success is not new for the rugby team as recent program highlights include: 

• 2024 Division 1 7’s National Champion 
• 2024 7’s Regular Season Record 15 Wins - 1 Loss - 2 Ties
• 2023 Division 1 15’s National Runner Up 
• 2022 Division 1 15’s National Runner Up
• Mid-American Conference Champions (5 seasons in a row)
  • Spring 2022 - 7’s
  • Fall 2023 - 15’s
  • Spring 2023 - 7’s
  • Fall 2023 - 15’s
  • Spring 2024 - 7’s
• 2024 Oak Leaf 7’s Tournament Cup Champions
• 2024 Notre Dame CRC 7’s Open Cup Champions
• 2024 MTSU CRC 7’s Tournament 3rd Place
• Several players selected to represent UofL in regional, national, and international contests

Justin Peterson, director of campus recreation, says the team's notable achievements on the field have led to a surge in recruitment, attracting a growing number of prospective Cardinals.

"Presently, the incoming freshman class for the fall of 2024 stands at 23. Additionally, a number of transfer students have pledged their commitment to join the team, further enhancing its talent pool," he said. 

The club is considering entering its reserve (B-Side) team into the Division 2 National Conference. This potential move positions UofL as the first institution in the nation to field both its A and B teams at the national level. Additional discussions are ongoing about establishing a women's club team, as several players have expressed interest in transferring to UofL.  

"The men's Rugby Club at the University of Louisville continues to redefine excellence in collegiate rugby, as proven in their recent triumph as the 2024 Division 1 7’s National Champions," Peterson said. "Their remarkable on-field success reflects the team's dedication and commitment to the UofL community."

Read more about UofL's win on the Collegiate Rugby Championship website. 

Read more about how Sports Club teams shape student success at UofL.