The U18 Union Mudturtles celebrated the 10th Anniversary with a spirited 66-28 victory over Princeton at Unami Park on Saturday, April 27. This match was just one of the highlights of the “Rugby Day” party that included games with the U12, U14, U16 and Girls teams as well as full day of wonderful food, music and fun!
The U18 Mudturtles capped off their undefeated regular season with a very strong performance against Princeton. Union’s Mike Hughes started off the scoring with one of his 2 tries and the Mudturtles never looked back. Union also had scores in the first half by Nick Costa, Mike Dabulas, Maslin Pierre, Tom Dazzo, Dan Maran, Kevin Trotter and Jonadony Brevette. Dabulas also completed seven conversions and Hughes completed one. Princeton struggled early but fought back and scored 4 times and completed 4 conversions. The quick Mudturtle offense and hard line of defense proved to be too much, however, as they dominated Princeton and finished off the regular season with a rousing win. This victory, along with 3 wins in the Maryland International Youth Rugby Festival on April 12-13 brings Union’s record to 8-0!
The U16 Mudturtles also provided a highlight for the day by defeating rival Morris 30-12. Shamus Garcia scored first for Union. The Mudturtles’ defense held strong only allowing Morris to get to the try zone twice. Union dominated the center of the field and had scores by various players including Patrick Hak, Dan Johnson, Zyshonne Small and Anthony McGrath.
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Union’s Girls squad put forth a strong effort but fell short against a powerful Morris team. Mudturtles Erica Simmons and Page Whitman moved the ball well and Brianna Whitfield had several terrific plays being fed the ball by scrum half Nicole Johnson.
On May 10th, the Union Mudturtles head to the NJ State Championships at Caven Point Athletic Complex in Jersey City. For more information about the Union County Mudturtles Rugby Club, please visit http://www.mudturtlerugbyyouth.com.
