Marquette University High School (MUHS) bulldozed their way to the 2024 State Championship, leaving no doubt about their dominance.
They steamrolled past the Pulaski Roos 49-14 in the State Semifinals before delivering a flawless 50-0 shutout against the Green Bay Leprechauns in the title game. With a 7-1 season record, the Hilltoppers solidified their reputation as Wisconsin’s rugby powerhouse. This year, they opened up the season with a convincing victory over Eastside Exiles. Everyone else has not yet kicked off their season.
Looking ahead to Spring 2025, MUHS is primed to defend their crown, returning 13 key players and boasting six athletes on the Preseason All-State Watch List. Leading the charge is senior forward and 1st Team All-State selection Jude Ballinger (6’1”, 205 lbs), a force to be reckoned with. Supporting him is electrifying senior back Sam Becker (6’1”, 170 lbs), a 2nd Team All-State pick. They’ll be joined by senior standouts Diego Serrano (5’11”, 195 lbs), Evan Maier (6’0”, 210 lbs), Michael Nolan (6’5”, 265 lbs), and Cole Fischer (6’4”, 290 lbs). With experience, discipline, leadership, and unselfish play, MUHS aims to impose their will on every opponent. Their journey begins with a challenging road trip to St. Louis.
Under the leadership of head coach Colin Dillon (7th season) and a battle-tested coaching staff—Rex Ballinger, Steve Gramling, Patrick Monahan, Marc Becker, and Boris Turcinovic—the Hilltoppers have their sights set on another championship run.
GREEN BAY LEPRECHAUNS: HUNGRY FOR REDEMPTION
After falling just short in 2024, the Green Bay Leprechauns (6-2) are determined to reclaim their spot atop Wisconsin rugby. Despite the departure of their star flyhalf, 1st Team All-State James Rose, they return a seasoned lineup featuring three Preseason All-State Watch List players. Leading the charge is powerhouse junior forward Matthew “Rhino” Schetter (6’1”, 270 lbs), whose physicality makes him a nightmare for opponents. Adding to the mix are sophomore forward Keona Sausi (5’10”, 215 lbs), senior forward Jackson Foster (5’10”, 190 lbs), and lightning-fast junior back Nate Wiater (5’9”, 155 lbs). Under the guidance of head coach JJ Rose, the Leprechauns are poised for another deep postseason run.
NORTH SHORE LEGION: REBUILDING, BUT READY TO FIGHT
North Shore Legion finished third in 2024 (7-1) but faces a tough rebuild after losing 13 senior starters. New head coach Adam Westermayer, alongside assistants Jed Thompson and Matthew Gordon, looks to mold a squad that thrives on aggressive play and a powerful pack. Team leader Andrew Thompson (8-man) and captain RJ Stowers (12) will anchor the team, while emerging talent Zack Beckmann hopes to continue his family’s rugby legacy.
PULASKI ROOS: YOUNG, FAST, AND DANGEROUS
Pulaski ended 2024 at 6-2 with a fourth-place finish, and their youthful roster gained valuable experience. In 2025, they return four Preseason All-State Watch List players, including dominant senior forward Ben Barry (6’6”, 215 lbs) and junior bruiser Tyler Nowak (6’2”, 215 lbs). Senior standout Trevor Schuessler (5’8”, 165 lbs) leads an explosive backline primed to translate their 7s expertise to 15s success. Head coach Cole Coopman is ready to unleash the Roos.
