It’s the big weekend, one might even say the final exam, except the teams might also say “please don’t call it that.”
The four teams in the NCR Men’s D2 championship weekend are all wrapping up Finals Week right now. For three of the teams, the day of the semifinals, Friday, is actually an exam day, as well. UNC Wilmington, meanwhile has its final exam day being Thursday, their travel day.
This presents a challenge, but one the teams are willing to take on.
Grand Valley State
The big issue for GVSU the last few years is poorly-timed injuries. The Lakers at their best have been one of the top teams in the nation for a few years. But, because they have had some special players at certain positions, when injuries come in, they can struggle.
This year they have been more healthy than ever, which helps, and they also have enough depth so that when they were without starting scrumhalf Cal Schwandt and starting openside flanker Alex Jones in the Round of 16 and Quarterfinals, they still won.
Now those two are back. And with the team able to have their finals finish up today, they will be free to worry about upcoming rugby games starting tonight.
With a strong tight five led by Connor Orlando and Evan Farber, and lock Jordan Malone, who is somewhat new to rugby but a powerful presence, GVSU can unleash their talented backs.
“If our defense shows up as we have prepped, we will compete,” said Head Coach John Mullett.
Chicago
GVSU’s opponents, Chicago, have had to do some exams juggling. Finals Week goes through Friday, but the players have been able to adjust.
“It has been difficult to balance but we’ve known that we’re going to be playing this weekend long enough for the guys to get themselves organized,” said club president Mateo Rampoldi. That means begging and pleading for professors to change exam times.
“Professors have been very generous,” said Rampoldi. As a result, everyone can travel together.
“Logistically it’s been difficult, but we’ve all bought into the goal of winning this tournament, so it’s worth it.”
