Christendom Defeats Franciscan in Shield Rugby Match

Christendom's rugby team traveled to Franciscan University of Steubenville for the return of the Shield Rugby Match, taking place for the first time since 2019. Competing against the Barons, Christendom won handily 29-12 — their fifth Shield Match win.

The Shield Rugby Match, also called the Frassati Rugby Match, first began in 2014 as a way of bringing together athletes from faithful Catholic colleges to play for the love of rugby and the glory of God. Christendom was the winner of the previous four matches going into Saturday's match, defeating Franciscan andp Ave Maria University in the matches.

In Saturday's game, Christendom's offense got to work early, jumping out to a lead over the Barons. Their experience against their 7s team a few weeks back in the Fighting Irish 7s Premier Qualifier Tournament gave Christendom an advantage in the 15s game, with Joseph Kokes, John Kennedy, and Andrew Mead all scoring tries on Franciscan's defense. Thomas Santschi put up two tries of his own, ultimately leading Christendom to a 29-12 victory and their fifth straight Shield Match victory.

Christendom's alumni fared just as well against Franciscan's in the hard-fought alumni game, with Christendom winning 24-22. Following both games, the teams united for a Theology on Tap hosted by Franciscan, with legendary Catholic author and theologian Dr. Scott Hahn serving as the speaker for the event.

Up next for Christendom is another trip to the National Collegiate Rugby May Madness 7s National Championship, where Christendom will compete in the Small College bracket for a shot at another 7s National Championship title.