The Rye Boys Rugby team came up short in the New York State semifinals on Sunday, May 31, falling to Xavier 30-10. The loss at Wagner College in Staten Island ends the season for the Garnets just one game shy of a berth in the state championship game.
“Rye matched up well physically against Xavier, but two yellow cards and turnovers resulted in Rye losing momentum in key moments,” Assistant Coach Phil Verona told MyRye.com. “We are proud of how the team played and the resilience they showed throughout the season. We will build on this momentum next year where the goal remains the same: a state championship.”
The Knights led 12-5 at halftime, although the Garnets scored late in the frame to give them some potential momentum heading into the second. Xavier pulled away with four scoring possessions to Rye’s one down the stretch to pull away and earn their spot in the finals.
Rye closes out its 2026 season in third place in the RugbyNY Met Division 1 with a 6-4 cumulative record. In 2027, they will have the benefit of a more experienced coaching staff and several key returning players. Their goal remains the same, to compete for and win a state championship.
