Regis Jesuit got some revenge this past week, defeating East HS in a close Colorado state final a year after East did the same to Regis Jesuit.

The 2015 final was 10-5 for East, and this game was only slightly higher-scoring.

“The guys just played their hearts out,” said Regis Jesuit Coach Zach Fenoglio. “That we held them to 16 points was a credit to their heart. East plays very disciplined, mistake-free rugby, and so we knew that when they made those few mistakes, we had to get something out of it.”

Regis was led by flyhalf Ryan Maxfield, who captained the team and, said Fenoglio, led by example. Center Cade Alcock was outstanding as well, while the forwards got big performances from Dylan Able and Matt Peppercorn. And then there was Lou Vera, who played a crucial role with his goalkicking.

East scored early to take a 7-0 lead, but Regis came back, scoring two tries, both of which were converted by Vera. East replied again, this time taking the points on offer - Sam Adix kicking three penalty goals to eventually take a 16-14 lead with four minutes to play.

Regis Jesuit defended well in those last few minutes as East tried to extend the lead. Regis forced a turnover and worked their way into scoring position. It wasn’t much of a scoring position when East was penalized - 35 meters out and well to the side - but Maxfield asked Vera to hit the kick, and hit the kick he did.

“Lou was a big factor for us all season,” said Fenoglio. “We’d have these games where he’d go five-for-five, and he was one of the reasons we made the final. We had complete confidence in him and we trusted he would do the job.”

And he did.

This was, yet again, a tough state championship to win. At the highest level, the Colorado league is as good as just about any high school league in the nation. Fenoglio said the entire state is getting better.

“All around Ccolorado rugby is growing,” said Fenoglio. “I was impressed with the level of talent in DII, and with teams getting 60 to 80 players in their programs. The playoff games are always tough, as well. For us it was a very gratifying season, and to finish off with a win is always your goal, and the guys did that.”

2016 Colorado Boys DI regular season standings: