Big Weekend Ahead for Queens at R7CC
Big Weekend Ahead for Queens at R7CC
The high profile of the R7CC Sevens is a massive chance for some of the women's programs involved to get a PR boost, and one of those has to be Queens University.
The Charlotte college has a NCAA varsity women's program, and that's a draw for sure, but performing well at the tournament at Kennesaw State University should certainly turn heads. And with some good news from the school, too, Head Coach Katie Wurst is feeling pretty good about it all.
As of yesterday, Queens Athletics just formally announced the official decision to join the ASUN conference in Division 1 NCAA Athletics," said Wurst. "You couldn’t ask for better timing as we are set to travel to Kennesaw State University, who are current members of the ASUN. Running out onto the pitch of Fifth Third Bank Stadium is the storybook way to usher in this next chapter of NCAA rugby for Queens University of Charlotte. We are certainly thrilled to be a part of this exceptional collegiate rugby experience.”
What that means is Queens can now be a part of the NIRA DI.
Still, performing well at KSU will help the Queens image. The Royals are in Pool C with Sacred Heart, Life University, and Army. While Life has done exceptionally well in collegiate 7s, they can't just write in 1st place in pen.
“Queens rugby is an exciting mix of experience and youthful athleticism," said Wurst. "We have a versatile group that has been training well together all spring, and into the post-season schedule. It’s been a collaborative approach from all members of the squad to enthusiastically represent the pride we have for our team. Our team values focus on passion, respect, inclusivity, determination and effort for the game and one another. This is a chance we have worked hard for, and we will go forward with these intentions together.”
Queens lost a close semifinal in NIRA's DII in the fall, missing out on a place in the final. Is this tournament then a chance to put that 22-20 loss to the eventually champions to bed?
"Each season of competition is a new beginning that presents opportunities to learn and grow," said Wurst, which is kind of a "no" on this being a redemption arc. "Close competition is one of the many privileges we get to experience by competing in NCAA Women’s Rugby. We always enjoy 7s, and look forward to a great event.”
