St. Paul’s improved to 3-0 in the Deep South boys HS league this weekend with an 81-0 defeat of the New Orleans Marine & Military Academy.

With some of the more well-known teams in Louisiana embroiled in a tough series of wins and losses, St. Paul’s has emerged as potentially the top team in the region.

St. Paul’s has already beaten New Orleans Jesuit, who beat Brother Martin, and last week Brother Martin surprised Shaw.

So the chain of results seems to favor the 2nd-year Catholic school. St. Paul’s won the state plate championship last year, and look like they have their sights set for something higher this season.

“We have been fortunate to field a committed and hard working team of academic-athletes,” said Head Coach Dr. Donald Hart. “We have band members,  wrestlers, swimmers, soccer players, footballers, and others who simply found a sport they could be involved in and belong. All have embraced the camaraderie of rugby in a manner that makes us all proud.”

Hart said every year is a rebuilding year as they have to teach the game from the ground up. And not just the players. The task of educating not only the students, but parents and coaches, as to the positive aspects of rugby, is somewhat endless.

But it’s working.

“They all play like warriors,” said Hart. Three freshman have been starting regularly on the team, and the squad is led by the play of Cade Cowen, Mark Spicer, Christian Jarrett, Jacob McDonald, JT Kinch, Cullen LaGasse, and Kyle Gardner.

“All would be welcome additions to any side,” said Hart.

Being new, St. Paul’s remains an unknown entity in the Deep South, but what everyone knows is that they are 3-0. They still have to face Shaw March 14, and Lake Area three days later, followed by Mississippi March 28. Shaw will be tough as they start late, and their loss to Brother Martin was their first game of the season. They are expected to be better.

“This season is far from over,” said Hart. “We have several tough opponents ahead of us, all programs that have been in existence for years. It’s an uphill battle for us.”

Also this week, New Orleans Jesuit beat West Jefferson 52-35. 

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