Stanford & Penn State v. Canada U20's

Stanford and Penn State have been rivals for the past four years, allowing nobody else to reach the USA Rugby Collegiate Division I National Championship match since 2004. In fact, for the past two decades these two teams have had quite a run of it in national competition:

Penn State Women's Rugby Nat'l Champion: 97, 00, 04, 07 2nd Place: 95, 96, 98, 01, 02, 05, 06, 08 Final 4: 93, 94, 03 Round of 8: n/a Round of 16: n/a

Stanford Women's Rugby Nat'l Champion: 98, 99, 05, 06, 08 2nd Place: 07 Final 4: 95, 97, 00 Round of 8: 03 Round of 16: 02, 04

 
How Stanford and Penn State players had previously been acquainted.
(Images from Dobson Images and Stanford Athletics)
Despite the rivalry, Stanford coach Jonathan Griffin and Penn State coach Pete Steinberg have become fast friends, sharing strategies (even when the players sometimes wished they wouldn't) and plotting world domination. So rather than waiting until the playoffs in 2009 to meet up again, they decided to bring these two teams together to face up against the Canadian U20 international squad in Toronto this June. Key players from Shippensburg (the DII National Champions) and Westchester (one of the few Varsity women's programs in the country) rounded out the squad.

After a short team bonding session and the first of three practices in Canada, this conglomerate team was united as one into "PennFord WestShip." Over the course of the trip, these 22 players from the 4 schools spent basically every moment together learning each others' cultures, trying to play together, and becoming friends. Players were encouraged to bond with those they did not know at dinner (at the Hard Rock Cafe and the Loose Moose in Toronto), spending time in the city touring The Steam Whistle Brewery, and at a Blue Jays game on Thursday night (with the Blue Jays winning 7-1). Some highlights of free time include impromptu karaoke night at Grace O'Malley's with Angela "Barb" Smarto's rendition of A Little Help From my Friends with Tim the guitar guy, Katy Black leaving the Blue Jays game with 2 new boyfriends (including Wayne, the elderly beer guy, and second baseman Joe Inglett), and nap time in the Brewery by some of the more exhausted travelers.


Team bonding
After 3 days trying to adapt to each others' style of play, it was time for a warm up match against a hefty Canadian U-20 side. Every player got an opportunity to bring something to the table in a match that showed off the team's ability to defend well under pressure. Although on defense for much of the game, the team allowed only 1 try and a penalty kick, leaving the final score of Canada 10, PennFord WestShip 0. The players felt that while the game was a good start, there was still much room for improvement. As this was still primarily a fun, social trip, the plan was to do do a lot of team bonding over the next day to increase team unity and start Sunday's game with a higher level of play than the end of Friday's game.

Which brings us to Saturday...

After a recovery practice and stretch, the team was told to meet in the lobby with a change of clothes to go to Niagara Falls for the day. Wondering what could be happening to necessitate a change of clothing, the team headed to Niagara-on-the-Lake where they went on a Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour, courtesy of Team Mom and the rest of the Smit clan. Each member, even those wearing ponchos, was drenched from head to toe after being led through level 5 rapids on a half million dollar jet boat (rapids are rated 1-6, 6 being the highest level and illegal to travel through)! Exhausted from being hit with wall after wall of water the team went to see Niagara Falls (a first time for many of the West Coast Players) and then eat dinner at the Niagara Casino's buffet (a first for many of the East Coast Players).


Most of the squad at Niagara Falls
After forming stronger bonds with new friends, everyone was very excited about Sunday's game against the first side of Canadian U20 players. The team played an improved game from Friday providing better quality ball for the scrum half, increasing scoring chances, and connecting better as a team. The team scored its first try together on a pick and go off a ruck from Nora Levinson. Although falling short of earning the W against a much stronger Canadian side than they had faced on Friday, the players were happy with their improvement and the overall level of play. Erin Kobashigawa and Alison Worman were named the players of the match.

Everyone agreed that what the team really needed was a little more time to get into a flow with one another, something that just wasn't possible in 3 practices and 2 games since having first met. But everyone was ready to have a good time before returning to America, heading off into downtown Toronto that night for one last hurrah. In the morning goodbyes were said, hugs were exchanged, and all were excited and ready for next year.


Team shot after Sunday's game.
(Writeup in collaboration with Penn State players. See their site.)

Stanford 15, Penn State 10

Saturday the 3rd of May was the day of the USA Rugby National Guard Division I Championship Match between Stanford University and Penn State. The day was sunny, with winds blowing southwards- the work rate was up, and all players were rewarded with sweat-soaked faces. Both teams had the national title at stake, and both teams delivered hard hits and fast-paced ball handling. But, in the end, Stanford won out.

The first half opened with a battle for territory, as the teams adjusted to each other's style of play. Stanford showed that they could quell the pick-and-gos from the Penn State forwards. Penn State showed that Stanford could not win primarily on sending the ball wide, and that any ruck not cleared out properly meant a lost ball. Yet, after many minutes of struggle, Jessica Watkins dived in for the first try in the corner. Later, from under the arms of at least three Penn State players, Jossy Tseng upped the score to 10-0 with a try beneath the posts.


Jessica Watkins and Jossy Tseng diving for the try.
(Photos by Stanford Athletics)
While these glory riders put two and two together to lead the game with a double try score, many other players showed strength and agility that proved to be key in possessing and moving the ball. Particularly notable was the pack of eight, who clearly dominated the scrums and line outs. Many a Penn State ball was thrown in to the eager hands of flanker Kelsey Moss, and hooker Diana Peng likewise laced her hands with Stanford's own ball. The high lifting of lock Kira Greco and prop Rachel Danford, as well as the slightly lower lifting of prop Susan Dekker was much appreciated.


Susan Dekker and Rachel Danford give Kelsey Moss the height she needs to win the lineout.
(Photo by Dobson Images)
In the scrums, the set piece moves of 8-man Erin Kobashigawa and flanker Crista Mendoza were key in taking Stanford's direction to a whole new level. And then there is Victoria Whittaker- a running and ball-stealing genius- what a lock.


1 - Many seniors forwards used their experience wisely to win scrums.
2 - Flanker Crista Mendoza was critical in shutting down their backrow.
(Photos by Stanford Athletics)
We mustn't forgot the second half, though. Coming in from halftime, Penn State quelled Stanford's attempts to raise the score, while putting in two trys of their own. Still, Stanford held their own. Ramine Cromartie caught some key balls, and Ono Nseyo made some big hits despite the fact that her heel was fractured! Dummy lines from Jennifer Cooperrider were no joke, and Maya White's entry into the game rekindled Stanford's agression in defensive channels around the breakdown.


Diana Peng and Maya White display tenacity on defense.
(Photo by Dobson Images)
Yet, as time ran out, the playing field was even, with a score of 10-10 on the board haunting the eyes of all those present. Each team experienced time in their own defensive 22's, but some knock-ons from Penn State and a monster stolen line-out gave Stanford the advantage. Some brilliant runs from Lindsey Innes put Penn State in their own territory, with Stanford in possession of the ball. And then the last play. With no time left. Melissa Smit gets the ball and throws a long pass- Jessica Watkins skitters through the side and touches down! Try for Stanford! And that was the game! Stanford reclaimed the name. 15-10. There is a time for friends and a time for teams and a time for trys. That second was all. One team, one heart.....


One team, one heart.
(Photo by Stanford Athletics)

More pictures of the match and news articles are available from:

• Dobson Images [pg 1, pg 2, pg 3]


• Stanford Athletics


• Numina Photo


• Grant Dekker


• San Francisco Chronicle


• Palo Alto Online


• Redwood City Daily News

Stanford 40, Navy 20

Stanford came out today to face the Navy Goats, who had bested Texas A&M to make it to the USA Rugby National Guard Collegiate Club Championships at Stanford. The first half got off to a slow start with lots of close forward play and multiple penalties and other infractions slowing the pace of the game. Navy notched the first points as they kicked from a penalty after spending several minutes in Stanford's 22, unsuccessfully trying to punch it in for a try. Minutes later, Stanford answered with a try from freshman center Jennifer Cooperrider. The slow pace of play continued, but Stanford fullback Jessica Watkins managed to bring in another try in the corner before the halftime whistle blew. The score was 12-3 at the half.

The second half began with back and forth play, as Navy scored twice to take the lead at 15-12. Stanford answered with a try as fullback Jessica Watkins took the ball around the outside and won in a foot race against Navy's back 3. Watkins notched another try, and with successful conversions from flyhalf Melissa Smit, Stanford took the lead again with a score of 26-15. Navy dove on a dropped ball in the Stanford try zone for another try, but missed the conversion to bring their tally up to 20. Stanford held them at that for the rest of the game, finally kicking into gear and getting the ball to Watkins for two more tries. Tight head prop Rachel Danford capped the game off as she broke Navy's midfield defense and brought the ball in for a try in the center. Smit was good for all of the conversions in the second half, including some spectacular kicks from near touch, bringing the final score to 40-20.

Stanford will face perennial rivals Penn State in the title match tomorrow, May 3, at 3pm at Stanford's Steuber Stadium.

Stanford in Collegiate Championships!

Come watch Stanford Women's Rugby as we work to reclaim our National Championship title.

Stanford will take on the Navy Goats on Friday, May 2, at 1pm. The championship game will take place on Saturday, May 3, at 3pm against the Penn State Nittany Lions or the Brown University Bears. All games will take place at Stanford's Steuber Stadium.

Get pumped up and watch this promotional video by team PR guru, Ono Nseyo.


The 2008 Stanford Women's Rugby Championship Squad

Stanford 58, Virginia 5

Stanford Women's Rugby met the University of Virginia in the elite 8 on a blustery Saturday afternoon. Weather girl and powerhouse, Ono Nseyo, forewarned her teammates of these conditions, and Stanford prepared by practicing in a wind tunnel two days prior. Luckily, standout fullback Jessica Watkins did not blow away. Stanford had edged by UVA in the 2006 national tournament, but this time they trounced UVA 58-5. Scoring was lead by Watkins, referred to by her opponents and her support alike as "the fastest kid alive." Ramine Cromartie's kindhearted nature did not stop her from mercilessly increasing the Stanford lead with two more tries. The ever-so powerful Susan Dekker drove the ball in for one try. Despite the decisive victory, Stanford had some difficulty with ball retention and coach, Jonathan Griffindor, was not shy in voicing his frustration. Stanford will meet the Navy goats in the Final Four on Friday, May 2nd at 1 pm.

Stanford 95, Northern Iowa 5

Stanford continued on its quest toward a National Title, as the USA National Collegiate playoffs began on Friday, April 18, at Balloon Fiesta Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Cardinal began its Round of 16 play facing a very athletic University of Northern Iowa team.

Though outweighed, the Stanford scrum did a magnificent job to dominate and win the ball. This great play on the front end, coupled with the quickness and agility of the back line, helped Stanford post a 57-0 score at halftime. The Panthers were able to score off a scrum set deep in Stanford territory with 15 minutes remaining in the game, but the fast tempo style of the Stanford Women was no match for NIU. Chris Skieller, Jennifer Cooperider and Ramine Cromartie ended the day with a try a piece. Ono Nseyo and Jessica Watkins combined to earn another 10 tries, most of which came from long breakaways. In addition to a try of her own, Melissa Smit was 12-for-13 on kick conversions.

With the win today, Stanford advances to the Championship bracket in their pool.

Stanford 31, UC Davis 0

In the second game of Pacific Coast playoffs, Stanford took on UC Davis. Stanford lost to the Aggies in the last league game of the season, and it was evident that Davis would use the same tactics to attempt another victory. Davis exhibited excellent kicking and aggressive defense, but it was no match for the strength of Stanford's pack and speed of the back line. Stanford got off to an impressive start when center Melissa Smit broke the defensive line to run for a try. Stanford continued to show prowess on offense with tries scored by Ono Nseyo, and two tries by Jessica Watkins. Stanford also displayed an excellent defensive effort, which was anchored by the forwards. However, the pack did not only work hard without the ball, they also produced results on offense, as Erin Kobashigawa and Diana Peng were able to run for tries. Smit also converted three of the tries with kicks, shutting out Davis to secure a Stanford victory.


Wing Ramine Cromartie didn't let hand surgery keep her from poaching Davis' ball
(Photo by Dobson Images)
With the win, Stanford gained a berth in the Sweet 16 playoff tournament in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Stanford 26, BYU 17

On April 4th, Stanford faced the BYU Cougars in the opening of national tournament, playing for a spot in Sweet 16s in New Mexico. BYU was one of the best that Stanford has faced in the last couple of years.

Early in the first half, Stanford scored next to the post and Melissa Smit converted the kick for a starting 7-0 lead. The Cougars responded with a diving try under the defensive line and a conversion to even the score. Stanford scored and converted again, and BYU gained another try to start the second half 12-10. About 20 minutes into the second half, BYU turned the ball over and scored down the wing, giving them the 17-12 lead they held for a good portion of the second half. Stanford put in two quick tries late in the second half to win the game 26-17 and move on to play UC Davis the following day for the Pac Coast Championship.


Lock Kira Greco takes the ball into contact
(Photo by Dobson Images)
It was a well-fought game that many thought should have been played later in the tournament. But the opportunity to play such tough opposition has taught Stanford valuable lessons heading into New Mexico and the rest of tournament.


Team captain and 8-man Erin Kobashigawa will lead Stanford into the
playoffs in Albuquerque (Photo by Dobson Images)

2008 U20 National Team Squad!

Three Stanford players were selected to the 2007 U19 squad which will be touring to South Africa this year. Congrats to sophomores Jay-Marie Hill, Kelsey Moss and Jessica Watkins!

Champagne Classic

Stanford traveled down to the Champagne Classic nervous but excited about the challenge that faced them. Playing in the Women's Club Bracket always posed significant challenges and tougher games, which ultimately was the goal of the Stanford coaching staff. The team got to an early start with a win over the San Louis Obispo Women's club team, but Stanford still had two more games to play that day versus Belmont Shore and the Frost Giants. Playing these two experienced teams proved a challenge. However, Stanford rose to the occasion with tough physical play among the forwards and good decision-making among the backs. In the end, they banked two more wins and a spot in the semi-final of the tournament the next morning. Overall, the team came together as one and was able to face the brave that the tournament held for them.

Stanford got off to an early start on their second day of competition, kicking off against Boston Women at 10am. Prepared to face tough competition against one of the best club teams in the nation, Stanford put up a solid defensive line against their more experienced and physically larger opponents. Despite Stanford's impressive defensive efforts along their try line, Boston managed to push through the middle of the field to score the first try of the game. Boston, however, was not prepared for the speed of Jessica Watkins, who outran the entire Boston squad and tied up the game. The tie was broken before halftime, with a try and a conversion by Boston. In the second half, Boston succeeded in taking the ball wide to score again. Down by 12, Stanford refused to give up. Another try by Watkins and a great conversion kick by Melissa Smit narrowed the gap, but time ran out before Stanford could score again. The final score, 12-17, reflected an exciting display of high-level rugby from both teams.