It’s a cavalcade of powerhouses as the 6th Annual Jesuit Classic kicks off in Leesburg, Va. Saturday morning.

Eight top Boys HS programs will field nine teams in the Varsity competition, while JV and Freshman brackets will also feature teams.

Among the Varsity participants are five ranked teams, plus the #1 team’s 2nd side. The other three are all on the cusp of Goff Rugby Report’s rankings. In addition, there’s a ranked team in the JV bracket, as well.

Defending NIT champs Gonzaga are the hosts, and are ranked as the #1 single-school team by GRR. Gonzaga has two very strong 15s and should have no trouble doing well with both sides.

Greenwich out of Connecticut will welcome HSAA U17 halfback Soh Nakayama and is ranked #7 among single schools. Charlotte Catholic is ranked #29 and looking to move up, while South Doyle out of Tennessee is ranked #14.

West Shore United is out of Pennsylvania and ranked #25 among HS clubs. Also playing are the Marin Highlanders out of Northern California, who are 4-3 in the Redwood Conference (Varsity Silver level). Fairfield Prep out of Connecticut is always a contender in that state but are coming off a tough 32-30 loss to Staples on Thursday. St. Xavier is currently 1-0 in the Rugby Ohio DI South, having beaten Hilliard in their opener. 

The Maryland Exiles, ranked #30 among HS clubs, will play in the JV bracket, as will the Loudon program out of Virginia. Xavier HS of New York of plays in this competition but is currently on tour in California. Their freshman team will participate.

Stick with Goff Rugby Report for scores and reports.

Jesuit Rugby Classic Varsity Teams

1. Gonzaga I
2. Marin Highlanders
3. St. Xavier
4. Charlotte Catholic
5. Greenwich
6. Gonzaga II
7. Fairfield Prep
8. South Doyle
9. West Shore United