The Big Ten Universities men’s rugby Conference kicks off on September 19 with nine teams in the conference.

Defending champion Wisconsin doesn’t get started until September 26 when the Badgers visit Iowa. And there’s plenty of competition for the top spot this year. Indiana, remember, was ineligible for the conference championship due to being on probation. IU, which finished with the best record in the conference regular season in 2014, is back in good standing, and is definitely a contender. IU opens up the season hosting Illinois on September 19.

But there are others, too. Ohio State, for years the best team in the region, is hoping to get back to the top. Last fall’s MVP, Santino Cua, is the team captain and heads up a solid back row. Some rebuilding is expected in the backline, but Head Coach Tom Rooney said he likes his team’s chances. 

“We know we have some good freshmen coming in too,” added Rooney. “But Indiana didn’t lose much and they are extremely athletic. And Michigan and Wisconsin are always tough, and Iowa is up-and-coming.”

Michigan Head Coach Brandon Sparks said too many discount the Big Ten.

“When you look at how teams finished in the CRC and USA Rugby 7s championships, you see we have a lot of parity in a strong conference.”

Michigan is looking to bring an expansive, aggressive style led by Zach Burns, who moves from center to flyhalf this year.

The Wilverines bring in some talented youngsters, including (pictured) prop Jamie Dembers, utility back Kevin Watt, and hooker Lee Moore.

Michigan kicks off their season with a non-conference game Friday night September 4 against Humber College, one of the top collegiate teams out of Ontario. 

Bug Ten Universities Fall 2015 Schedule