Princeton University Athletics

Photo by: Shelley M. Szwast
Queens Up Next For Women's Rugby
October 26, 2023 | Women's Rugby
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PRINCETON, N.J. – The Princeton University women's rugby team's second season at the varsity level continues on Oct. 27 in Charlotte, North Carolina, against Queen's University at 11 a.m.
Last Time Out
The Tigers showed their promise and continuous improvement in a 61-5 loss to an experienced Harvard team. The Tigers were able to hold the Crimson to a lower score than last season and look to continue the trend in the future. Princeton was able to put up five points before halftime, as Zoë Koniaris, scored her first varsity career try.
Princeton had great moments at set pieces, showing physical power setting up their backs to show off their speed. The Tigers had standout performances by the versatile senior, Leilani Bender in her attack, defense and leadership, Amelia Clarke, who was ruthless on attack, and Celia Watson who broke through Harvard's defense on multiple occasions. Malinka Kwemo, who formed an impactful back line combo with Celia Watson, also displayed an effective kicking game throughout the match.
The match was also the Tigers' senior day, celebrating the six graduating seniors; Kateri Espinosa, Jane Castleman, Sophia Villacorta, Leilani Bender, Laura Esguerra, and Jessica Cui, who all lead the team in its ongoing rise.
This match displayed the heart of Princeton women's rugby and how far this team is yet to go.
Clarke Shines
Clarke has had an impressive season for the Tigers, leading the team in tries with four. Malinka Kwemo, Celia Watson and Koniaris have also scored this season for Princeton.
Scouting Queens
The Royals are 3-2 on the season, and defeated Long Island University 32-9 in their most recent match on Oct. 14.
PRINCETON, N.J. – The Princeton University women's rugby team's second season at the varsity level continues on Oct. 27 in Charlotte, North Carolina, against Queen's University at 11 a.m.
Last Time Out
The Tigers showed their promise and continuous improvement in a 61-5 loss to an experienced Harvard team. The Tigers were able to hold the Crimson to a lower score than last season and look to continue the trend in the future. Princeton was able to put up five points before halftime, as Zoë Koniaris, scored her first varsity career try.
Princeton had great moments at set pieces, showing physical power setting up their backs to show off their speed. The Tigers had standout performances by the versatile senior, Leilani Bender in her attack, defense and leadership, Amelia Clarke, who was ruthless on attack, and Celia Watson who broke through Harvard's defense on multiple occasions. Malinka Kwemo, who formed an impactful back line combo with Celia Watson, also displayed an effective kicking game throughout the match.
The match was also the Tigers' senior day, celebrating the six graduating seniors; Kateri Espinosa, Jane Castleman, Sophia Villacorta, Leilani Bender, Laura Esguerra, and Jessica Cui, who all lead the team in its ongoing rise.
This match displayed the heart of Princeton women's rugby and how far this team is yet to go.
Clarke Shines
Clarke has had an impressive season for the Tigers, leading the team in tries with four. Malinka Kwemo, Celia Watson and Koniaris have also scored this season for Princeton.
Scouting Queens
The Royals are 3-2 on the season, and defeated Long Island University 32-9 in their most recent match on Oct. 14.
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