Simpson Women’s Rugby Places 3rd at NSCRO 7’s Nationals

Not even cold and snow flurries could deter the Simpson College Women’s rugby team! They placed third in the National Small College Rugby Organization (NSCRO) National Tournament held on April 28-29 at Founders Field in Cheswick, PA.

Coach Kelsie McDowell said, “The girls played at a whole new level. They were unselfish and worked as a unit. I am beyond proud of them.”

The first day of pool play, the Simpson women defeated Ursinus College (PA), 38-0, tied with Denison University (OH), 17-17, bested Colorado College, 32-10, and won the quarterfinal game against University of Rochester (NY), 39-17.

Among the snowflakes Sunday morning, the team succumbed to Lee University (TN), 36-5, in the semi-final game, but rallied to win the third-place game, 32-22, over York College, (PA).

Katelynn Major ’18, was selected to the All-Tournament Team.

Simpson women’s rugby has been in existence for four years and have made it to the National Championship tournament every year. The 2018 tournament marks the team’s best finish.

“All the odds can be against Simpson and these girls showed they deserved third in the nation,” said Jessyka Clark, assistant coach.

Pictured: Back row

Coach Kelsie McDowell, Anna Herrmann, Katelynn Major, Jessie McElderry, Abby Waddell, Maura Saltzman, Emma Johanson, Riley Lonsdale, Keeghan Corcoran, Assistant Coach Jessyka Clark

Front row: Shannon Werts, Hattie Liechty.

Not pictured: Sarah Skladzien