After plenty of rucks, mauls, and scrums, the Birmingham Buccaneers U19 regular season has come to an end.
After last year’s team posted and undefeated record and ride to the state title this year’s relatively inexperienced roster hoped to fill their shoes, and that is exactly what they did.
The team remained strong and finished with a 6-1 record. Playing in Division 1 for the first time, the level of play was much more difficult.
When facing Dexter, another undefeated team, the Buccaneers struggled and lost the game 15-0.
“We had high aspirations of being undefeated, to keep the undefeated legacy alive,” said Coach Brad Warner. “We took a tough loss to Dexter, it gives us a chance to learn from ourselves, and it builds character.”
On Friday, May 9, the team traveled to Elkhart,Indiana to participate in Midwest High School Championships, where they were ranked number one by MYRA (Michigan Youth Rugby Association). After a poor showing, the Bucs went on to lose their first game to St. Edward, 28-10, and again lost to Dexter, 15-14.
Overall, the Bucs finished 14th out of 16 tournament teams, heading into the State playoffs on May 17.
The Bucs exited relatively early, with a second round loss to Rockford.
“We didn’t meet our goal of the state champions, but we played well,” said sophomore Max Koskela. “Next year we are wining the state.”
Although the year is done they have learned a lot and became friends.
“This season was great, I’m so glad I joined the team,” said senior Will Moeller. “Our team was full of friends, and we became family. I wouldn’t give it up for anything.”
