Last week, Stanford Women’s Rugby played east coast visitors Dartmouth in one of our first games in the rain. The match proved to be a great learning experience for the team as many players in our squad had the opportunity to participate in this game. Although the downpour created slippery conditions and many turnovers during the game, Stanford took the early lead with back Bisi Ibrahim scoring the first try. Ibrahim would go on to add another try to her tally, while back Chelsea Harris added five points to the board with a try of her own. Dartmouth also scored a try of their own and successfully converted it to make the score 19-7 at half-time. In the second half, Stanford’s only try was by scrumhalf Michelle Batlle, while Dartmouth responded decisively with two more tries. With kicker Aly Gleason making 2 of her 4 conversions, the game ended with a score of 24-19.

On Sunday March 11, 2012, Stanford Rugby will participate in the San Jose 408K ‘Race To The Row’ benefitting the Pat Tillman Foundation. In partnership with Try For Others (TFO), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping critically injured athletes live a more active and independent lifestyle, Stanford Rugby will have both the men’s and women’s teams represent Team TFO at the inaugural 8K race.

The event, which Stanford Rugby is using as a fundraiser, has raised over $10,000 to support their program and adopted charities. TFO will be sponsoring a field of disabled athletes to race alongside the team, including a number of injured military veterans.
“Try For Others (TFO) is thrilled to have so many Stanford Rugby players represent Team TFO at the 408K,” said TFO Founder Dominic Cooke. “Through their support, we are able to honor the legacy of Pat Tillman and provide opportunities for challenged athletes to defy stereotypes and challenge their limitations.”

The sold-out race begins at the HP Pavillon in downtown San Jose before finishing at the beautiful Santana Row. Those interested in supporting Stanford Rugby with their fundraising efforts can make donations at www.teamtfo.org

Additional information can be found at http://www.teamtfo.org

For the last league game of the season, Stanford Women’s Rugby headed up North to face Chico State. It was a tough game that saw many tries scored by both teams. However, Stanford dominated the first half scoring six tries off players Amelia Villines, Hilary Streeter, Aly Gleason, and Molly Kinsella. Although the Chico offense threatened Stanford many times in the first half, Stanford held their ground, and the score at half time was 36-0.

The second half proved to be more challenging as Chico rallied and scored 2 quick tries. However, Stanford soon regained their composure and replied with tries of their own. Lock Molly Kinsella, center Aly Gleason, and hooker Ellen Danford added another 3 tries to the tally. Chico was also able to score two more tries in the half. Aly Gleason converted 6 tries and the final score was 57-22.

With this victory, Stanford remains undefeated in the Pacific Mountain North Conference. Stanford gets a bye in the league playoffs, and we look forward to playing in the Sweet 16s!

In preparation for playoffs, Stanford will be facing Dartmouth at home on Friday, March 16th at 6:30pm and head to Canada for Spring Break.