Rugby kicked off the 2025 season with enthusiastic pre-season action against Brother Martin. The day was cloudy above, and with a soaked pitch below, the grounds resembled more an archipelago than a field, making it an ideal day for rugby.

In the opening period, Jesuit demonstrated its strength as the Blue Jay forwards, seniors Evan Couillard (hooker), Frank Finicle (lock), and Ian Miranda (prop), launched repeated ground assaults into the Crusader defensive line. Time and again, the Blue Jays, soon dubbed the Muddy Jays, broke through the Crimson defense. By halftime, the score stood at Jesuit 15, Brother Martin 7. The second half saw several new Jesuit ruggers, fresh from football, make their debut on the pitch, including seniors Gio Matranga (lock), Chris Bourg (prop), and Ethan Shankle (prop). Each player quickly adapted, demonstrating rugby intelligence and instinct that belied their inexperience. Matranga, in particular, played with the poise of a seasoned veteran, repeatedly poaching the ball from Brother Martin. Senior flanker Ethan Watts also made his presence known with a series of powerful runs and tackles.

Following the first match, Jesuit’s developmental squad faced off against their Brother Martin counterparts with similar success.

Pre-freshmen Whit Guidry, Richard Serio, Will Fernandez, and Owen McGhee each made their debut. Guidry distinguished himself with several bold charges into the Crusader defense. However, the standout performance came from freshman Charles Cangelosi (flyhalf), who was small but explosive. Cangelosi led the Jays’ offense, orchestrating his team’s attacks, and also spearheaded the defense with several bone-crunching tackles, eliciting reactions of awe from the spectators.

Ultimately, the only casualties were the washing machines. It was a memorable day of rugby for everyone involved.

Looking ahead, the Jays travel to Miami Saturday, February 1, to challenge national powerhouse Okapi Rugby in their final “warm-up” test match.