The University of Arizona thumped Grand Canyon 59-3 in a 2016 opener for both Grand Canyon State programs. 

Arizona Head Coach Sean Duffy started some younger players and said he was pleased to see some good performances.

Sophomore center Ben Joseph and freshman Flanker Ryan Fitzpatrick both scored two tries. Meanwhile, Dante Weeks scored a try and also set up a couple.

“Dante is learning to have those line breaks and also how to turn those line breaks into tries - and we’re learning as a team to do that,” said Duffy. “This was a good start for us. We wrapped up two-a-days and did our fitness testing and got a lot of stuff done.”

With classes at Arizona not starting until Wednesday, the Wildcats had some time to concentrate on preparation for their rugby season.

“We were able to get some stuff done ahead of classes starting,” said Duffy. “We started three freshmen and several sophomores, and we’re excited for what’s next.”

Duffy also had praise for Grand Canyon, a tough opponent, he said, that is well-coached and much-needed in the state to raise the level.

Next up for Arizona will be a Friday clash against touring St. Mary’s.