SHU Men's Rugby Team the X-Men Open Spring Season with Championship Run at Curry College 7s
The Sacred Heart University men's rugby team, known as the X-Men, kicked off their spring 7s season in dominant fashion on March 21 at the Curry College 7s Tournament in Milton, Massachusetts. Under clear skies and temperatures in the 50s, the team enjoyed ideal playing conditions on a natural grass pitch—setting the stage for an exciting day of rugby.
After a two-and-a-half-hour journey, the X-Men arrived energized and focused. Traveling with a roster of 21 players, the squad featured a mix of experience levels, including first-time starters and seniors returning to the program. That blend of fresh talent and veteran presence would prove to be a winning formula throughout the day.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
Sacred Heart wasted no time making a statement in their opening match against host Curry College. Just 15 seconds into the game, the X-Men struck first with a try off the opening kickoff. In the fast-paced format of 7s rugby—where matches consist of two seven-minute halves—early momentum is crucial. SHU capitalized, adding three more unanswered tries within the first five minutes to secure a commanding 24–0 victory.
Building Momentum in Pool Play
Following a brief turnaround, the X-Men returned to face Bridgewater State University (BSU). Despite a strong effort from BSU, Sacred Heart maintained control throughout the match. A clutch try in the final minute sealed a 15–7 win, pushing the X-Men to 2–0 in pool play.
After a two-hour break, SHU faced its toughest pool opponent: UMass Lowell (UML). In a tightly contested match, both teams scored three tries. However, conversions proved to be the difference. UML successfully converted one try, while SHU missed all three of their attempts, resulting in a narrow 17–15 loss. Despite the setback, the X-Men finished second in their pool and advanced to the semifinals.
Statement Win in the Semifinals
With something to prove, Sacred Heart entered the semifinal round determined to reassert its dominance over Western New England University (WNE). Facing the third-seeded team, the X-Men delivered their most complete performance of the day. Relentless pressure and cohesive team play led to four unanswered tries and a decisive 38–12 victory, punching their ticket to the championship match.
Championship Redemption
The final brought a rematch with host Curry College, but this time with the tournament title on the line. From the opening whistle, the X-Men controlled the pace and intensity of the match. Strong individual performances combined with disciplined team execution kept Curry on the defensive throughout. SHU emerged victorious with a 24–12 win, claiming the tournament championship convincingly.
By the Numbers
Over five matches, the X-Men showcased their offensive firepower and defensive resilience, scoring 116 points while allowing just 48.
Standout performances included:
Looking Ahead
With a championship victory to open their season, the SHU X-Men have set a high standard moving forward. They return to action on March 28 as they travel to Central Connecticut State University for their next 7s tournament, looking to build on their early success.
