NEW YORK, N.Y. — Penn State Men’s Rugby concluded its preseason preparations with a 59–17 victory over the New York Athletic Club (NYAC) in a scrimmage at NYAC’s historic facilities.
The match served as Penn State’s final test before the start of Rugby East conference play, with the Nittany Lions utilizing a unique three-period format consisting of three 30-minute periods. Penn State was able to give every healthy rostered player an opportunity to compete as the team continued to build toward the conference season.
For Head Coach Zac Mizell, the focus of the day was less about the final score and more about establishing the style of play Penn State wants to carry into Rugby East competition.
“Our goal was to come away from this match with the structured style of play that we want to use moving into Rugby East conference play,” said Mizell. “We accomplished that by playing quality territorial rugby, applying a high-pressure defensive system, and showing the ability to move the ball into space in attack.”
Penn State’s ability to control territory and apply pressure defensively allowed the Nittany Lions to create consistent attacking opportunities throughout the match. The three-period format also provided valuable opportunities for the entire healthy roster to experience the intensity and pace of competition ahead of the regular season.
The match also provided Penn State an opportunity to compete against one of the country’s most established rugby clubs while experiencing NYAC’s facilities.
“It was great to see the NYAC facilities and compete against such an esteemed rugby club,” Mizell said. “It was a great final test for us before we get into conference play.”
With the preseason now complete, Penn State turns its attention to Rugby East competition. The match marks the beginning of Penn State’s Rugby East campaign and the next step in the Nittany Lions’ Adapt & Advance season. The Nittany Lions will open conference play this weekend in Buena Vista, Virginia, against Southern Virginia University. Kickoff is scheduled for noon.