ATLANTA – January 17, 2026 - National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) has officially announced the recipients of the 2025 Men’s Player of the Year Awards.
A national panel of rugby administrators, competition officials, and collegiate coaches identified the honorees after reviewing more than 10,000 players from 332 teams. Honorees represent the highest level of achievement in performance, leadership and impact across NCR’s four competitive divisions.
"These young men embody what collegiate rugby stands for," said Brad Dufek, NCR’s Director of Men’s Rugby. "These players consistently delivered in big moments, raised the standard within their programs, and demonstrated the competitiveness and character that define this level of the game. We're proud to recognize their accomplishments on a national stage."
Division I:
Alex Nyamunda | Wheeling | Center | Junior
The explosive center from Harare, Zimbabwe amassed an impressive junior campaign, scoring 16 tries in Wheeling’s run to the quarterfinals. Nyamunda was also exceptional in defense, tallying 35 tackles and forcing 17 turnovers. He’s big and powerful, fast and elusive, and he’s a leader by both example and in voice for the Cardinals, often leading the pre-game sing-alongs. Thanks in large part to Nyamunda, Wheeling is vying for a third-straight 7s national title this spring.
Division I-AA:
Philip Tracey | Bowling Green | Back Row | Senior
With a whopping 21 tries, Phil Tracey leads all Division I-AA Player of the Year finalists, scoring 105 points for MAC Champion Falcons. While he specializes in the back row, the Dayton, OH native played every position in the pack this fall, driving Bowling Green to an 89-percent win rate in the scrum, including 32 taken against the head. Tracey’s dynamism was on full display in the national championship game, when he slammed home the game’s opening try and was outstanding in defeat.
Division II:
Reinhardt Stipp | Grand Valley State | Fly-half | Senior
A decorated high school rugby player in South Africa, Stipp first arrived at Grand Valley State University on a track scholarship. Since joining the rugby club, the lightning-quick, highly-skilled playmaker has starred for the Lakers, amassing 22 tries, 168 points, and six 50/22 kicks this fall. Stipp had a fantastic first half in the national semifinal against Chicago in December, nailing three conversions and making several line breaks before suffering a back injury in the 45th minute. With all the skills you want in a flyhalf, coupled with legit track speed, he’s a rare talent.
Division III:
Joseph Moleski | Franciscan | Scrum-half | Sophomore
Joseph “Jo Bob” Moleski was a key component to the Franciscan offense due to his elite attacking ability and ability to exploit lapse in defense. As a scrumhalf, his elite passing from scrums and rucks, along with a booming kick, were factors in Franciscan’s first-ever national championship run in 2025. In addition to his offensive capabilities, he’s big in defense. Jo Bob tallied 82 tackles and five turnovers – an unusual feat for the position.
