University of Arizona Rugby

30/07/2026

Congratulations to Ethan Heim on his selection to the CRAA U19s for the Rugby Americas North Championships. The second-year fullback will be joined by incoming first-years Cole Eversole and Jaydan Sullivan as they look to help the USA defend its title in Querétaro, Mexico.

All matches will be streamed live on RugbyPass TV.

13/07/2026

There is no greater recognition than the respect of your teammates.

Voted on by the players themselves, the Players' Player Award honors the teammate who embodies what Arizona Rugby is all about—commitment, toughness, selflessness, leadership, and putting the team before yourself. It is our program's highest individual honor because it comes from the people who battle beside you every day.

Congratulations to Nick Morgan on being named the 2026 Players' Player.

Nick's impact went far beyond what appeared on the stat sheet. He led through his actions, competed relentlessly, and earned the trust and respect of every member of the squad. Whether it was in training, on match day, or in the locker room, he consistently set the standard. The vote of his teammates is a reflection of the player he is and the respect he earned throughout the season.

Congratulations, Nick, on an outstanding year and on receiving the highest honor your teammates can bestow.

Bear Down. 🐻⬇️

12/07/2026

The players who make the biggest impact aren't always measured by statistics alone. They elevate everyone around them, deliver in the biggest moments, and set the standard every time they step onto the field.

Congratulations to Saxon Gerstl on earning the Geoff Barnes Award as Arizona Rugby's Most Impactful Back.

Saxon was the heartbeat of our attack this season. His vision, composure, and ability to control the game at flyhalf consistently put Arizona in position to succeed. Whether creating opportunities for teammates or taking control himself, he proved to be one of the most influential players in the country.

This award proudly honors the legacy of Geoff Barnes, whose passion for Arizona Rugby helped shape our program and whose impact continues to be felt today. We are sincerely grateful to the Barnes family for allowing us to recognize Geoff's legacy through this award and for their continued support of Arizona Rugby.

Congratulations, Saxon, and thank you to the Barnes family for helping preserve the traditions and history of Arizona Rugby.

11/07/2026

Some players leave an impact on the scoreboard. Others leave an impact on a program that lasts forever.

Congratulations to Dalton Slaughter on earning the Josh "Giant" Allen Award as Arizona Rugby's Most Impactful Forward.

A dominant presence in the front row, Dalton set the tone with his physicality, consistency, and relentless work rate. Whether in the scrum, around the breakdown, or carrying the ball, he embodied the toughness and selflessness that define great forwards. This season also saw Dalton earn All-American honors for the second time in his career, cementing his place among the nation's elite.

This award proudly honors the legacy of Josh "Giant" Allen, whose passion, character, and love for Arizona Rugby continue to inspire our program. We are deeply grateful to the Allen family for allowing us to celebrate Josh's legacy through this award and helping ensure his impact on Arizona Rugby lives on for future generations.

Congratulations, Dalton, on an outstanding career, and thank you to the Allen family for being an enduring part of the Arizona Rugby family. 🐻⬇️

10/07/2026

Some freshmen contribute. Others change the trajectory of a season.

Congratulations to Ethan Heim on earning the Mark Shively Award as Arizona Rugby's Most Impactful Freshman.

From day one, Ethan made an immediate impact with his work ethic, athleticism, and fearless style of play. His ability to create opportunities from the back and compete beyond his years made him a key piece of the squad throughout the season.

This award is especially meaningful as it honors the legacy of Mark Shively, whose passion for Arizona Rugby continues to inspire generations of Wildcats. We are incredibly grateful to the Shively family for allowing us to recognize Mark's legacy through this award and helping ensure his impact on our program is never forgotten.

Congratulations, Ethan, and thank you to the Shively family for being such an important part of Arizona Rugby. 🐻⬇️

09/07/2026

Recognizing two players who set the standard every time they pulled on the Arizona jersey.

⚡ 2nd XV Back of the Year
Lance Barker | Flyhalf

A composed playmaker who controlled matches with his decision-making, kicking game, and leadership. Lance's consistency and ability to put teammates in the right positions made him a key part of the 2nd XV this season.

💥 2nd XV Forward of the Year
Alex Kemp | Lock

Physical, relentless, and dependable. Alex brought intensity to every collision, worked tirelessly around the park, and was a driving force in the pack all season long.

Congratulations to both players on outstanding seasons in their first year in the desert.

05/06/2026

Congratulations to Matteo Berenger and Dalton Slaughter on earning All American honors for the second time in their careers. Berenger (2nd team) and Slaughter (1st team) wrap up their careers with the Wildcats having helped lead the side to another outstanding season.

21/04/2026

The season may end in Moraga, but a special run in the desert has set the foundation for 2027.

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Tanner DeMassa and the Wildcats end a strong season in Tucson in the 57th year of the program. (Photo credits: Josh Pearson) 

19/04/2026

Arizona captain Matteo Berenger is a nominee for the Rudy Scholz Award, given annually to the national player of the year. Voting is fan-driven, with today being the last day to show your support for the Arizona captain.

⬇ Click the link below to vote ⬇

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-5qCHZFar26DM2UsqKPavm-BO7SEBSWqClxhJ2BGQ2K51lg/viewform?urp=gmail_link

18/04/2026

Post-practice food review with the one and only Max Wang.

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