The Brock women's rugby team opened the 2023 Ontario University Athletics (OUA) season in Guelph on Saturday, Sept. 2.
 
In a women's rugby clash that ended 44-10 in favor of the Gryphons, the Brock Badgers demonstrated their resilience and skill on the field, defying the scoreline to put on an impressive display.
 
Guelph led 24-0 at halftime before third-year tight five Chihinga Palata found the end zone in the second half. Paige DeNeve recorded a successful convert.
 
DeNeve, a third-year Nursing student from Zephyr, registered a penalty convert in the 67^th minute.
 
"It wasn't the result we were hoping for, but we played really well," said head coach Mark Smerdon. "We had outstanding performances by Paige for her kicking game, running the attack and also some great tackles, including Chi Palata for powerful ball running, and great defence."
 
Jordan Smith was named Brock's Player of the Match for lights out tackling and rucking for the full 72 minutes she was on the field.
 
Smerdon also noted first-years Orly Ferris, Julie Grohal, Mia Vandenhoek and Brooke Rempel enjoyed strong performances.
 
Up next, the Badgers (0-1) return home to host the Waterloo Warriors (1-0) on Saturday, Sept. 9 at Brock Alumni Field. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.
 
BADGERS AT A GLANCE
Overall Record: 0-1
Conference Record: 0-1
 
Next match: Saturday, Sept. 9 vs Waterloo Warriors • 1 p.m. - Alumni Field

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