Go Lady Cavs! Pleasanton 'Underdog' Girls Rugby Team Took National Title

PLEASANTON, CA — Pleasanton's Lady Cavaliers rugby team took home a big win this summer when they secured the 18-and-under title at the North American Invitational 7s tournament in Salt Lake City.

The Lady Cavs, comprised of middle and high schoolers from the Tri-Valley and East Bay, are part of the Pleasanton Cavaliers. Players commute as far as Monterey and Mill Valley to get a chance to participate.

They vied for the title along with teams across the country, besting the San Diego Mustangs, Eagle Lady Mustangs from Idaho, and finally, the Pioneer 7s Girls Select team from Salt Lake City in July. The Lady Cavs won their final game against the Pioneers to take home the title 22-10.

The "local underdog" team took on an extremely challenging task at high altitude, on the heels of a difficult said coach and Lady Cav parent Nick Bursey in an email. Despite the pandemic, injuries and big chances to the coaching lineup, "the girls rallied when it counted," he said.

"This is a tremendous accomplishment from one of our very own local clubs, that flies largely below the radar, and is always looking to introduce new members to the team and the sport," Bursey said. "A small group of fiercely competitive young ladies that together are more of a family than just a club."

Have you got the spirit of a Lady Cav? The winter season is coming up and camps for new players will be held Oct. 17 and Nov. 22 and 23. Get the details.