The Tigers were in the USA Rugby D2 playoffs at Furman University this past weekend scheduled to play two matches…. Sweet 16 on Sunday and Elite 8 on Sunday if successful on Saturday.

The Tigers beat Villianova on Saturday in what became a mud bowl. This was one of the sloppiest fields that I have ever seen, but the Tigers maintained composure and handily took the match.

On Sunday, the Tigers challenged Wisconsin-Whitewater. This is a strong program, regularly ranked high in D2 and has had Eagles on its team in the past. The Tigers fell behind early due to a pressure offense that they have never seen before. However, as the match progressed, the lads adapted, learned how to play at a higher level and clawed back into the game. In the end the Tigers fell short and their playoff run was ended in a 31-24 loss.

The Tigers showed plenty of heart through this series and impressed the old boys that were there to support and cheer the lads. “I can’t tell you how PROUD I was of our young men this week end.” said Rick McGhie. “They played with tremendous ability and heart all week end, giving the higher seeded teams a HUGE lesson of how good Tennessee Rugby really is.”

Hawkins, McGhie, and Knowles fed the team on both Saturday and Sunday with their tailgaiting equipment. The food was delicious and made the weekend very special.

The Tigers are very grateful for the outpouring of support that we received from those who cheered us, encouraged us, fed us and financially supported us on our run. A very special thanks to all of Tiger Nation!