Princeton University Athletics

Photo by: Shelley M. Szwast
Women’s Rugby Falls to Brown in Season Opener
September 02, 2023 | Women's Rugby
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – The Princeton University women's rugby team opened its second season at the varsity level against Brown Saturday at Berylson Family Fields.
The young Tiger squad fell to a more experienced Brown, 86-0.
The season opener was a match marked with improvement from last year. Although the score didn't show it, the Tigers achieved their own internal goals of consistent phase play and low penalty counts. With the NIRA league growing and institutions recognizing their rugby programs' potential, Princeton is in a phase of performance development. We're looking forward to continued support in all areas from Athletics and our surrounding community.
Throughout the match the Tigers were able to find their small victories and stay connected. There were impressive performances from first year Malinka Kwemo, who was a menace on both attack and defense, sophomore Ciara Loughran, who celebrated playing her first match at fullback, and senior captain Leilani Bender, who consistently leads the Tigers in defense. This year our team is continuing to build with many walk-on student-athletes playing their first match of rugby against the Bears. This was an impressive performance considering Brown's large class of recruits and experience in the league.
"We're looking forward to continuing to grow our Princeton Rugby Program with the University, alumni, and fan's support," said Head Coach Josie Ziluca. "Good things come to those that don't give up. The Tigers will stay relentless in their training, gearing up for our first home match at West Windsor Rugby field on September 9 at 12:00pm versus Mount Saint Mary's. Please join us in what's gearing up to be a great matchup."
Up Next
The Tigers host Mount Saint Mary's (0-1) in their home opener at 12 p.m. on Sept. 9 at West Windsor Field.
The young Tiger squad fell to a more experienced Brown, 86-0.
The season opener was a match marked with improvement from last year. Although the score didn't show it, the Tigers achieved their own internal goals of consistent phase play and low penalty counts. With the NIRA league growing and institutions recognizing their rugby programs' potential, Princeton is in a phase of performance development. We're looking forward to continued support in all areas from Athletics and our surrounding community.
Throughout the match the Tigers were able to find their small victories and stay connected. There were impressive performances from first year Malinka Kwemo, who was a menace on both attack and defense, sophomore Ciara Loughran, who celebrated playing her first match at fullback, and senior captain Leilani Bender, who consistently leads the Tigers in defense. This year our team is continuing to build with many walk-on student-athletes playing their first match of rugby against the Bears. This was an impressive performance considering Brown's large class of recruits and experience in the league.
"We're looking forward to continuing to grow our Princeton Rugby Program with the University, alumni, and fan's support," said Head Coach Josie Ziluca. "Good things come to those that don't give up. The Tigers will stay relentless in their training, gearing up for our first home match at West Windsor Rugby field on September 9 at 12:00pm versus Mount Saint Mary's. Please join us in what's gearing up to be a great matchup."
Up Next
The Tigers host Mount Saint Mary's (0-1) in their home opener at 12 p.m. on Sept. 9 at West Windsor Field.
Players Mentioned
Sights and Sounds: 2026 Ivy League Softball Tournament Championship
Monday, May 11
Into the Ivy: 2026 Princeton Men's Lacrosse
Sunday, May 10
Sticks and Stripes - May 8, 2026
Friday, May 08
PVC Spring Luncheon (2026): Student-Athlete Reflections
Thursday, April 30










