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This past Saturday, the University of Maine women’s rugby team was eliminated from a post-season battle against top-ranked University of Vermont Catamounts. The Black Bears, who journeyed to Vermont, were coming off several victories to finish off the regular season and were excited for the challenge. With a defense that held their opponents scoreless, the Black Bears were confident they could continue their success, but despite the hard work and dedication, UMaine failed to get the win and fell with a score of 21-10.
The Black Bears, with the return of their star player Kelly White, began the game with several strong offensive plays and good defense. The Catamounts were able to counter with several scores of their own. The Black Bears ran into trouble when White was flagged with a yellow card and had to leave the game for an illegal tackle for ten minutes.
“After that, it was a little hard because we were playing down a player and it was a little tough to get over that,” Danielle Frederico said. “But I know we’ll be back next year, ready to go.”
While UMaine didn’t get the outcome they wanted, they were pleased with their hard work and unity as a team.
“The entire team was definitely pretty bummed,” first-year player Katie Mortensen said. “I don’t think anyone was ready for the fall season to be over just yet and I really think that if we were to play them again, we could win.”
Mortensen also cited the poor weather and muddy playing conditions as additional challenges.
Despite the loss, UMaine built a strong team, including many first year players who added a lot to the team’s success. Rookie Caitlin Losi said she learned a lot from the veteran players.
“I think our team was so successful because we have great leaders that prove themselves on and off the field, like Kelly Lee White,” Losi said. “She is a force to be reckoned with in the games, but also a great support and teacher for her teammates.”
The Black Bears, who finished 4-1 on the season, are positive about next season and will continue in the spring when they look to defend their Maine Cup Championship.
