The eagerly anticipated D1AA Final in Florida is poised to showcase a clash of tradition and innovation as St. Thomas prepares to take on Florida this Saturday.
In one corner, Florida stands as a seasoned club program with a long and prestigious history, while in the other corner, St. Thomas emerges as a new school-supported program with a paid coach and official athletic department status. Despite the odds in their favor, St. Thomas has swiftly ascended to prominence, amassing victories and solidifying their position in the championship final.
The journey of St. Thomas closely mirrors that of other emerging varsity programs. As they continue to bolster their roster and acquire valuable experience, the fruits of their labor are beginning to materialize. Their remarkable track record includes resounding victories, such as an 80-0 win over North Florida and a commanding 84-0 triumph over Florida Atlantic.
However, the narrative of Florida cannot be disregarded. Despite a grueling battle and challenges with discipline, the Gators clinched a spot in the final by overcoming South Florida 43-27. With their sights set on redemption from last year’s defeat, the Gators have been tirelessly striving to maintain their focus and refine their game.
As the championship showdown looms, both teams are gearing up for an epic clash. St. Thomas’ head coach, Gavin McLeavy, acknowledges the daunting challenge posed by Florida, led by experienced coach Ken Simmons. McLeavy exudes confidence in his team’s preparation but remains cautious of Florida’s ability to dissect their game plan.
Anticipation for the final is further heightened by the unique circumstances surrounding the games. The forfeited semifinal afforded a crucial resting period for some injured players, providing St. Thomas with an opportunity to regroup. However, the team remains mindful of the potential impact of the unforeseen break on their performance.
The D1AA championship game will take place at the IMG Academy as part of the FRU’s state finals weekend. Despite St. Thomas being the favored team, Florida’s D1AA league is renowned for producing surprises, adding an element of unpredictability to the highly anticipated match.
Both teams are also slated to play bowl games against D1AA opposition at the CRAA Finals weekend, further reinforcing their standing as dominant forces in collegiate rugby. However, due to travel and budget constraints, Florida teams do not currently participate in the CRAA playoffs.
As the stage is set for a gripping showdown, the rugby world eagerly anticipates the clash of tradition and innovation in the Florida D1AA final. By upholding the rich tradition of the sport and embracing the spirit of innovation, both teams are poised to deliver a memorable finale. As spectators eagerly await the championship game, one thing is certain – this showdown promises to be a spectacular celebration of collegiate rugby.