GRR: Pelham
Xavier defeated Rye HS 21-17 in the Rugby New York D1 Boys HS final Sunday to win the state championship on the grounds of Siena College, but it wasn't easy..
It was a much closer result than expected and closer than three weeks ago when Xavier beat Rye 22-6.
Pelham HS out of New York defeated Morris out of New Jersey Saturday in a meeting of the #46 school team (Pelham) and the #48 club (Morris).
The Pelham backs had a very good day with scrumhalf Michael Sample providing quick service and helping the threequarters exploit space. Among those beneficiaries was wing Alejandro Beneventa.
Pelham HS improved to 3-1 in New York with a convincing 86-14 defeat of the Harvey School.
Getting young rugby players on the field has been a challenge for many state governing bodies and leagues as COVID-19 regulations and restrictions are different in different states and counties, and the restrictions are constantly changing.
High School rugby teams in New York are embracing touch rugby, which has proved to be a good way to get players back on the field while also making local and state officials feel comfortable with how contact is handled.