North Valley Youth Rugby finished its first season with a winning record (2-1-2) and tied for 2nd place in the 6-team standings. We were not as fortunate, however, at the playoffs. We lost two very tough matches, but played some of the best rugby overall.

First, we lost our semi-final match against the Scottsdale Wolves, but went to extra time twice before finally falling, 25-20. Scottsdale was the best team that day and went on to win the championship match with Eagle Prep Academy, 35-5. To our credit, we came within one score of making it to and possibly winning the same championship.

Later that day we played a consolation match (for 3rd place) with the Ahwatukee Titans. Although we lost the match 20-15, the Titans were technically the #1 seed and the team to beat. The score was close the entire match (just like our 15-15 draw with them the week before) and we nearly scored at the end which would have taken us to extra time again.

Despite two losses, we were in both matches down to the final minute of each game. We also scored the 2nd most tries that day and gave up fewer tries than the championship runner-up, Eagle Prep Academy. Considering only 2 of our 15 players had ever played rugby before this year, we ended up winners in more ways than one. Every kid on our team is eligible to return next season so North Valley will be the team to beat in 2013.

Thanks and congratulations to all kids and parents on a great season!

Sam Kelly - Coach/President