NJ Begins 7s Season

Morris and Play Rugby keep rivalry intact. /// Photo: Diane Ramage •

Rugby NJ’s Fall 7s Series opened its first week on Sept. 11 on the campus of Christian Brothers Academy (CBA). A bright sunny day hailed a slight breeze to accent the two full-size grass pitches.

Pat Moroney, Rugby NJ 7s Director, was well prepared for the event. With the assistance of Henrique Ribeiro, a college intern from the Sports Management Department at Kutztown University, the day’s games started promptly throughout the day. Six seasoned referees managed the games.

Midway through the day, the games were stopped to honor those who lost their lives on 9/11. All the players, coaches and referees locked arms midfield for a moment of silence and the signing of the National Anthem.

“Although many of the players were young and may not remember the events of that day, it is important for them to pay honor and respect to those who were lost,” said Moroney. “One of our CBA lads lost his father on 9/11 when he was only an infant, so we felt it was very important to pay respect and support him as well as honoring all those lost.”

When the games resumed, Play Rugby’s two teams contested the Boys U19 Cup Championship, while CBA and St. Augustine faced off for third place. On the girls’ side, Morris’ two teams played against each other for the Cup Championship. The boys also held an U16 division, which CBA’s White Team won.

Play will continue next week at 9 a.m. at St. Augustine Prep at 611 Cedar Ave. in Richland, N.J.

NJ 7s FINISH

U-19 Boys

1st: Play Rugby 12nd: Play Rugby 23rd: St. Augustine4th: CBA white5th: Highlander 16th: Morris7th: Highlander 28th: CBA blueU-19 Girls1st: Morris 12nd: Morris 23rd: Play Rugby 14th: Play Rugby 2U-16 Boys1st: CBA White2nd: Saint Augustine3rd: CBA Blue

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