Fullback Ja’mez Early stepped up last season and his emergence as a player and a leader has led him to being chosen as captain. He will be leading a team that is seeking out challenges. They have scheduled Kentucky and Thomas More out-of-conference but it’s going to be tough, with Bowling Green their opening opponent on September 6.

Western Michigan Head Coach Sanders Slevatz is working with a team that was very young last year, but is back (no seniors in 2024) with more experience.

“More than half our 1st XV each week was a mix of sophomores and freshmen,” said Slevatz. “We return with 100% of our roster from last season intact, with the addition of an exciting and athletic group of freshman, transfers, and new recruits.”

They have playing continuity and leadership continuity. Vice-Captain Nolan Van Loo is a strong leader on and off the pitch.  

“He takes care of a lot of the club’s behind-the-scenes duties and is a vital part of our system on the pitch,” said Slevatz. “Nolan is set to graduate with a degree in Engineering and will be joining the Naval Academy next year.”

Captain Adain Wardell is an NCR All American and is a hard-working player who is physically and mentally powerful. With Dr. Mark Allen still overseeing things and former Eagle Ata Malifa on the coaching staff, things are looking good for WMU in 2025.

“We have spent years working on building a strong rugby culture here at Western Michigan University Bronco Rugby, emphasizing honor, accountability, and integrity, as men, community members, family members, and rugby players,” said Slevatz. “We have built the program on hard work and humility. Now, we need to turn those values into wins when the trophies are on the line.”