Rugby scores more wins

Not only did the Norwich women's rugby team win the New England Championships, but it had a part in some national success as well. Seven Norwich players were key participants in helping the Northeast team win the U-19 Championships, according to their coach.

With Head Coach Austin Hall, the Northeast beat Southern California 24-0, and the South 24-12 to capture the Tier II Championship in California.

"This was a great opportunity to come here and be named head coach of such a great team. I was named the interim coach with a month or so to prepare the team and everyone did their part to make this experience successful." said Hall.

Helping Hall were the seven players on the roster that call Norwich home. Joya Clark, Rose Bernheim, Emily Baugus, Kate Gringas, Baylee Annis and Chelsea Weeden all played for the Northeast team. Sophomore Corinne McElroy was one of the two co-captains on the roster.

"It helped knowing that I had seven players who I knew for a fact was in shape. Having them also allowed me to be more comfortable with the roster because I know all of our girl's strengths and weaknesses. I could also open things up a little more because they know where each other are going to be on the field," said Hall.

Hall also praised McElroy for how she handled herself as co-captain for the Northeast team. "Corinne has been a part of the U-19 Northeast team for several years now so she knows what the Championships are all about. She has been on the team since she was 14 and this was her last tournament. The whole team felt that Corinne has put the hard work in and deserved to be one of the captains for the 2010 team." said Hall.

With the fall season and U-19 Championships now complete, Norwich can now officially set its sights on nationals, which are in April. Hall said it is all about finding the right balance of strength and rest as there is no rugby during the winter months.

"… It is important for us to find the right balance to be ready for (nationals). The downtime is good to let everyone's body heal, but at the same time you do not want to go into nationals rusty. The team needs to come in this spring not only in great shape, but also they need to be mentally and physically rested," said Hall.

Hall credits his seniors and captains Anita Moreno and Katie Hathaway for keeping the team focused on nationals.

"They all have been great and keeping each other focused and on track, especially Anita. She has been on three teams that have gone to nationals so she knows what to expect. She has gone with strong teams and weak teams. That allows her to know how to handle herself and how to get the team ready for the run at nationals. She has been a great influence and leader on this team this year," said Hall.