“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.”
The victories are a testament to the “heart and soul” of the team, according to Esteves, who said the team spirit surpassed anything he’s experienced in previous years of playing rugby.
“This season, we made it a priority to embrace everyone involved in the program, regardless of their role, and to foster the Brown rugby culture that has always been built on dedication and collective support,” he said. “This team seemed destined for greatness from the very start, and it was fitting that the season ended the way it did for us.”
In 2022, the team won its first Collegiate Rugby Championship, also in a victory over Queens University of Charlotte.
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