After intense recruiting at the beginning of the semester, the LSU women’s rugby team started the 2002 season with a large number of rookies. Two-year rugby veteran Frannie Knobloch said about 15 of the 22 players on the team are rookies.
“Once everyone learns the rules and how to play, we are going to be one of the strongest teams in the union,” Knobloch said. “We have so many penalties from inexperience.”
The women’s rugby team belongs to the Texas Rugby Union which includes teams from Baylor, Rice, Texas Tech and Texas A&M. LSU currently is ranked third in the union.
After the first half of the season, the rugby team is 1-3 in its division. However, a number of its players have been recognized by USA Rugby. Tiffany Watson is the leading scorer for the Tigers. Becky Gross, Frannie Knobloch and Erryca Robichaux have two tries each on the season and are recognized with Watson on the USA Rugby Website.
Knobloch said she does not mind all the rookies because it adds depth to the team. She also joined the team without any rugby experience at all.
“We are constantly looking for new, fresh players to join us,” said women’s rugby club president Celeste Matte.
The rugby team continues conference play Feb. 1 when they take on Baylor. The Tigers beat Baylor 45-5 in their last meeting of the fall semester.
Anyone interested in more information on the women’s rugby team can contact Matte at [email protected].