Rhody Rugby’s Senior Day drew a large crowd to the URI rugby pitch, where the Rams handily defeated UMass Lowell. The team came ready to play after celebrating eight seniors in a pregame ceremony: Chasterin Peralta, Ina Grauer, Grace Dandeneau, Ailin Harpole, Kendra Jackson, Chelsea Harris, Justhin Joku, and Gianna Piemonte.

Building off the momentum from a 27–22 win over in-state rival Providence College, the Rams finished their season strong with a commanding 53–17 victory over UMass Lowell.

URI started fast, jumping out to an early lead with three unanswered tries. The first was set up by senior captain Chasterin Peralta, who broke free and pitched the ball to a teammate for the score. Peralta stayed hot early, scoring the next try herself. Junior Casey Chin then broke free for a try and converted the kick afterward.

The rest of the first half saw two UMass Lowell tries and three more from URI, giving Rhody Rugby a comfortable 34–10 lead at halftime. The Rams continued their stellar defense in the second half, allowing just one try while tacking on three more of their own. Massive try-saving tackles from freshman Avery Shea earned her Player of the Match honors, while Chin capped off a terrific game with three tries and four successful conversions.

After starting the season 0–4, the Rams turned things around by winning their final two games, finishing the fall 15s season with a 2–4 record. They hope to carry this momentum into the spring 7s season. For now, the team will take some time off before resuming practices and lifts next semester.

By John Almy
Class of 2026
Journalism Major

Image credits: Eva Lavertue / URI Campus Recreation & Sky Connor / URI Campus Recreation