Bearcats Show Grit Against Conference Leaders UNC Charlotte

GREENWOOD - Saturday at Lander University marked not only a fierce conference matchup but also Senior and Graduate Recognition Day, as the men's rugby team honored those completing their collegiate and graduate journeys with the program. With a young roster stepping up behind them, the day carried a strong sense of pride, transition, and identity-building for the future of Lander rugby.

Senior Spotlight – Ethan Seswerda

In a special moment for the program, Ethan Seswerda was recognized as the first Bearcat to play five full seasons under head coach Buck Billings, marking a meaningful milestone in Lander rugby history. Seswerda, who is set to become a physical education teacher, has been a constant presence of work ethic and leadership.

"It's pretty special — five seasons with one player. I'm very proud of him," Billings said.

A Strong Opening and Momentum Shift

For the opening 30 minutes, the match was highly competitive. Lander struck early with a determined try by Jacob Gregory, setting a physical tone and signaling that the Bearcats came to compete.

Soon after, what appeared to be another scoring opportunity that would have given Lander the lead was called back. Instead of points, the decision resulted in a scrum awarded to Charlotte — a clear turning point in momentum. Even still, the Bearcats entered halftime very much in the contest and playing with belief.

Second-Half Challenge

UNC Charlotte opened the second half with a quick score and then found its rhythm, showing why it sits at the top of the conference and returns most of a national runner-up roster.

The final 70-7 scoreline does not reflect the physicality, competitiveness, and visible areas of progress shown by Lander, particularly in the scrum and defensive breakdown.

Standout Performances

Bearcat of the Match – Aaron Sloan (Second Row, Fr.) – Played a pivotal role in the scrum, bringing physicality, stability, and a competitive edge to the set piece. As a freshman lock stepping into a high-pressure match against one of the top scrummaging sides in the country, his composure and impact were outstanding.
Jacob Gregory – Scored Lander's lone try with power and determination.
Bryce Hollow – Showed a high work rate and physical presence, securing key breakdowns and making strong defensive tackles throughout.
Front Row Unit – Freshmen Leo Makoshi and Davido Sanchez, alongside Will Watts, helped the scrum show clear improvement — not only winning their own ball but also stealing multiple opposition scrums, marking a major step forward in technical execution and front-row cohesion.

Pride in the Battle and Growth Ahead

Rugby is a sport where the scoreboard doesn't always tell the full story of the match. This was one of those days. The Bearcats did not fold, even as momentum shifted, and their resilience under pressure speaks to a foundation being built.

"Matches like this don't define us — they refine us. We take ownership, learn, and come back harder. And I believe this group absolutely will," Billings said.

With a roster made up largely of freshmen and graduating seniors, this team is forging identity through challenge.

Up next, the Bearcats travel to Raleigh to face NC State — another high-caliber squad and another opportunity to respond with purpose.

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Players Mentioned

Jacob Gregory: Junior

Bryce Hollo: Sophomore

Davido Sanchez: Freshman

Players Mentioned

Jacob Gregory
: Junior

Bryce Hollo
: Sophomore

Davido Sanchez
: Freshman

Players Mentioned

Jacob Gregory

Bryce Hollo

Davido Sanchez

Players Mentioned

Jacob Gregory

Bryce Hollo

Davido Sanchez