Women’s Rugby Split First Two Matches to Open Season

GREENWOOD - Lander women's rugby opened its 2025 campaign with a strong start, notching a dominant 51-19 road victory over Florida on Sept. 20 before narrowly falling 19-17 to Clemson in its home opener on Sept. 27.

Match One - Lander 51, Florida 19 (Sept. 20)

The Bearcats set the tone in Gainesville with relentless defensive pressure and sharp execution on offense. Try scorers included Nevaeh Quinn, Carmen Spears, Rachel Hammelman (2), Kaitlyn Ausmus (2), and Emma Cook (2). Lindsey Pysell added five conversions and a penalty kick.

Head coach Makayla Lowe-Richesin praised the team's season debut, saying, "The team had an incredible opener to kick off the new season. Everyone played with heart, grit, and honor — proudly representing the Bearcats. We're excited for what's ahead."

Kaitlyn Ausmus and Nevaeh Quinn were named Bearcats of the Match.

Match Two - Clemson 19, Lander 17 (Sept. 27)

Lander returned home a week later, facing Clemson in front of a lively crowd at Van Taylor Stadium. The Bearcats battled throughout but came up just short in a 19-17 defeat.

Carmen Spears and Ausmus (2) crossed the try line, while Pysell added a conversion. Despite the close result, Lowe-Richesin pointed to areas of growth. "This wasn't Lander Rugby," she said. "We lacked the intensity and grit needed to get into our structure. That said, we've already started tuning up our craft, and we're ready to bounce back."

Abigail Hales and Pysell earned Bearcats of the Match honors.

The Bearcats will look to rebound this Saturday when they host UCF at 4 p.m., aiming to draw strong support from the home crowd.

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Players Mentioned

Carmen Spears: Sophomore

Kaitlyn Ausmus: Flanker; Junior

Emma Cook: Fullback; Sophomore

Rachel Hammelman: Flyhalf; Junior

Nevaeh Quinn: Hooker; Sophomore

Abigail Hales: Hooker; Freshman

Players Mentioned

Carmen Spears
: Sophomore

Kaitlyn Ausmus
: Junior
: Flanker

Emma Cook
: Sophomore
: Fullback

Rachel Hammelman
: Junior
: Flyhalf

Nevaeh Quinn
: Sophomore
: Hooker

Abigail Hales
: Freshman
: Hooker