VMI Rugby Charges Toward National Title After Perfect Run in Qualifier

The Virginia Military Institute Rugby Club participated in its cherished Alumni Game this past Saturday, April 12. Once a year, Keydet ruggers who have not yet had the privilege of seeing VMI in their rearview mirrors with diplomas face off against alums who have been privileged to return to the Institute as accomplished visitors, coming and going as they please. Reffed by Nate "Howie" Howerton, a cadet who leaned heavily in favor of the alumni for some reason, VMI rugby went against an aggressive alumni squad that played as if it wasn't their first time on the pitch in over five years. After two 40-minute regulation halves, the alumni team reigned victorious as they do every year. Our Keydets ruggers will tell you it is solely because of tradition, but that is a fact the alumni will never reveal... With the loss to the alumni past them, Keydet Rugby is preparing to take the national stage at the 2025 Collegiate Rugby Championship Division III Cup, which will be held from April 25 to 27 in Boyds, Maryland. The prestigious tournament, hosted by National Collegiate Rugby, will bring together the top Rugby 7s programs in Division III for a high-stakes, fast-paced weekend of competition. The Keydets secured their bid after dominating the Mid-Atlantic Rugby Conference qualifier. VMI swept all six matches, including a nail-biting semifinal win over Christendom College and a 21-10 victory against Slippery Rock in the final. The team's consistent performance throughout the season, especially in high-pressure moments, was key to their success. The national tournament will occur at the Boyds Rugby Complex, part of the Maryland SoccerPlex. Over three days, fans can expect continuous action as 144 men's and women's teams from across eight divisions battle across five fields. In Division III, VMI will compete against programs such as Babson College, Loyola Maryland, and Wayne State, all hungry for the same title. "This is the culmination of months of training and discipline," said Head Coach John Welsh, "Our guys have shown grit and adaptability, and now it's time to test ourselves against the best." Captain Charlie Williamson leads the squad. He is a First-Classman who has consistently provided steady leadership and clutch play throughout the season. Alongside him will be teammates such as Third-Classman Nate "Howie" Howerton, known for his explosive speed and kicking prowess, and First-Classman Vincent Cyrus, recognized for his agility and ability to score tries in ways that appear effortless. VMI will open pool play on Friday, April 25. Official pools are unknown until Saturday, April 19. However, Keydet Rugby practices against nationally ranked teams, with structured offenses and defenses that wish they had as much grit as VMI's players. Beyond the pitch, VMI's supporters will be out in full force. The Cadet Foundation will host its signature "Big Red Tent" at the venue, offering food and fellowship for alumni, parents, and fans. The Corps and Alumni's unwavering support has been vital to the team's journey. For updates and to follow VMI Rugby's championship run, visit the Collegiate Rugby Championship event page at NCR Rugby Championship 2025 website. The Cadet is 100% self-supporting. Please consider making a donation at this link to help us remain one of the oldest independent college newspapers in Virginia.