MUNCIE, Ind. – Ball State University has a new men’s rugby team, and though recruitment has been a challenge, the club is gearing up for its first official game in just a few weeks. After forming earlier this year, the team is already hitting the ground running, with practices underway and big goals for the season ahead.
The club played its first tournament this past Sunday, marking a milestone for a program that’s been years in the making. Cole Rudek, the team’s social media chair, reflected on the journey to get here.
“As someone who’s been part of trying to get this program up and running for the last two years, it’s been hectic,” Rudek said. “There were a lot of hoops to jump through and stuff with alumni we had to figure out. But it’s finally happening, and I’m so excited.”
Dalton Kirk, the team’s vice president, said the official recognition changes everything.
“Now that we’re official, we can fully start building the team and creating a culture,” Kirk said. “The men’s alumni used to play teams like IU and Purdue and win. We’re trying to get back to that.”
The Cardinals’ season officially begins April 12 against the University of Indianapolis, with their final match, an alumni game set for April 26. But the team isn’t just focused on this spring. They’re laying the groundwork for something bigger.
“I want to build a culture here,” Kirk added. “That’s why I joined the rugby team, to have that family feel. If you’re looking for a team, we’re open to new guys. Come try rugby, it’s not as scary as people think.”
Recruitment remains a hurdle as the team works to grow its roster and establish consistency. Still, the players are confident in their potential. Rudek, Kirk, and the rest of the squad see this season as the start of a legacy at Ball State, one that could rival the success of the alumni teams before them.
With their first game fast approaching, the Ball State men’s rugby team knows the road ahead won’t be easy. But their determination is clear, they’re here to compete, connect, and carve out a lasting place on campus.
Contact Jacksen White with comments at jacksen.white@bsu.edu.
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