Brown University men’s rugby team secures collegiate rugby national title

The team clinched its second national championship in Division I National Collegiate Rugby in a nail-biting 23-20 victory over Queens University of Charlotte.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — For the second time in three years, the Brown University men’s rugby team won the national championship title in Division I National Collegiate Rugby. 

At SaberCats Stadium in Houston, Texas, the team played its way to the finals, going up against Queens University of Charlotte on Saturday, Dec. 14. 

Down by 11 points with just 30 minutes remaining, the team made a stunning comeback to turn the score around, ultimately claiming a 23-20 win over Queens.

“ This team seemed destined for greatness from the very start, and it was fitting that the season ended the way it did for us. ”

“When the final whistle blew, it was a moment of pure euphoria: tears, cheers, hugs and an immense sense of fulfillment,” said Brown senior Antonio Esteves, one of the team’s captains. 

The win solidifies an undefeated season record of 11-0 for the club team, which claimed four additional championship titles in men’s 15s and 7s in the Liberty Rugby and Ivy Rugby conferences. 

An emphasis on balance on the front and backlines, and a commitment to fitness and conditioning, made all the difference this season, said Head Coach Dave Laflamme. The rallying support from dedicated staff, fans and program alumni also helped motivate the team. 

“I'm proud — not for me, but for the players, all of them who worked so hard to get us here,” Laflamme said. “I'm proud of the coaching and support staff, as they equally deserve credit for this accomplishment. I'm proud for all those who played for this program before us, and it’s amazing to hear from players in the ’60s, ’70s, ’80's, ’90s, ’00s, ’10s and now the ’20s who have reached out and shared their joy in the victory.”