December 3, 2023

Eau Claire Wins Second Straight National Title

December 3 - Wisconsin Eau Claire claimed its second-straight National Championship after defeating Vassar College, a team making its first appearance in the NCR postseason, 32-29. Driven by hat-trick scorer and MVP Izzy Currie, the Blugolds came out on top of a thrilling back-and-forth game. 

Vassar took the lead after three minutes through flyhalf Zoe Lynch, who snuck across the line from point-blank range. Eau Claire answered with a trio of quick tries to take a 17-7 lead after 20 minutes. The first was a breakaway run from openside flanker Julia Bancroft, the second a weaving carry by fullback Cerys Ridd, and the third a hard charge by wing Izzy Currie.  

Vassar scrumhalf Sophia Bailey shifted momentum with a try a few minutes later, darting in off the base of the ruck from short range. She helped set up the next try, too, this one scored by flanker Asia Baker. The former was converted, putting Vassar up 19-17 going into halftime. 

Two Brewer yellow cards in the second half created the perfect opportunity for the Blugolds to come back, with Currie dotting down twice in the second half. Vassar still led before UWEC's Megan Ludy scored in the final five minutes to take the lead for good.  

In the third-place match, Coast Guard defeated Illinois, 60-5.

Women's Director Angela Smarto with UWEC MVP Izzy Currie

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