Coastal Carolina a Dark Horse out of the South?

10.15.2024

Coastal Carolina's win over East Carolina has them probably the main contenders to challenge UNC Wilmington coming out of the Southern Rugby Conference.

The 20-17 victory follows up on their 61-45 defeat of North Carolina Chapel Hill and a close win over Lander has people talking.

The key, said Coast Head Coach Thomas Petit, is experience.

"We have a senior-heavy team so several have been playing together for three to four years now," Petit told GRR. Add to that a growth in numbers—54 on the roster and their bench is strong—and you've got a good formula for success.

Talent helps, too.

Junior Griffin O"Connell brings with him a ton of experience in the game. The fullback sees the entire field well and is tough in contact despite his size. Flyhalf Rory Naylor is also experienced in the game (coming, as he does, from England). His ability to make smart decisions, coupled with a solid partnership with inside center Reed Stiles.

Those three have become central in making decisions on attack.

No. 8 Patrick Mauro picked up rugby just a couple of years ago but, said Petit, "he is the most coachable player on the team. He is always a threat in the open field."

He can poach the ball and even kicks.

With a solid quartet of props rotating up front and scrumhalf Payton Petrilli kicking for goal (despite his 0-fer against ECU he's been effective), Coastal is perhaps one of the few dark horses in D2 college rugby this year.

Now we can just wait for them to face off with UNC Wilmington October 26.

Coastal Carolina a Dark Horse out of the South?

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