Wheeling Jesuit University
01/22/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/22/2025 13:39
Women’s Rugby Team Recognized by Wheeling Mayor and Council
January 22, 2025
Women's Rugby Team Recognized by Wheeling Mayor and Council
Wheeling, W.Va., January 22 - After winning the National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) Division I National Championship in their inaugural season, the Wheeling University Women's Rugby team is receiving recognition around the city of Wheeling.
On Tuesday night, the team was honored for their historic season at the Wheeling City Council meeting with a special proclamation honoring the Cardinals for their historic season. The proclamation was signed by Wheeling Mayor Denny Magruder as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
"It was a wonderful feeling knowing how much the city of Wheeling appreciates and recognizes the hard work and dedication of these ladies," said Pape. "I couldn't be more proud to be a part of Wheeling University and this amazing city. Thank you to the residents of Wheeling for welcoming us into the city with such open arms, it truly is the Friendly City."
The Cardinals put together a historic season in their inaugural year, going a perfect 12-0 throughout the regular season. They averaged 54.4 PPG throughout the season, including their run on the National stage, while never scoring less than 31 points in any game in which they took the field.
The night began with Mayor Magruder recognizing the team for their accomplishments with an official proclamation from the City Council. The proclamation read:
"Whereas, the Wheeling University Women's Rugby team achieved a historic milestone during their inaugural season, demonstrating exceptional talent, teamwork, and dedication to the sport; and
Whereas, the team concluded the regular season with an impeccable 12-0 record, exemplifying a standard of excellence and perseverance both on and off the field; and
Whereas, under the outstanding leadership of Head Coach Ken Pape, the team exemplified the values of discipline, sportsmanship, and unity, which contributed to their remarkable success; and
Whereas, the Wheeling University Women's Rugby team displayed unparalleled athleticism and determination, averaging an extraordinary 54.4 points per game during the season, a testament to their skill and competitive spirit; and
Whereas, this exceptional group of 30 women came together as a cohesive unit, achieving greatness by securing the prestigious Division I National Championship title; and
Whereas, the team's achievements have brought immense pride and recognition to Wheeling University, the City of Wheeling, serving as an inspiration to athletes and students everywhere;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved that we do hereby recognize and honor the Wheeling University Women's Rugby team for their undefeated inaugural season and Division I National Championship victory, and extended heartfelt congratulations to the players, coaches, and all who contributed to this extraordinary accomplishment;
Be It Further Resolved that this proclamation stands as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence, and we wish the Wheeling University Women's Rugby team continued success in all future endeavors.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the City of Wheeling, to be affixed this 21st day of January 2025."
Following the proclamation, Wheeling University President Dr. Diana Vargo would take the podium to say a few words in congratulations to the team.
"At Wheeling University, we provide opportunity for our students to learn, to grow, to lead, and to serve and that is what we see from these young women that are here tonight," said Vargo. "We are very proud of all our athletic programs under the direction of our Athletic Director, Mrs. Carrie Hanna, our coaches, Coach Pape this evening, and of course our Vice President of Advancement Ms. Kelly Klubert."
Head Women's Rugby Coach Ken Pape then addressed the council, sharing his gratitude for the recognition of his team and the girls.
"Being Wheeling's university has been a great set of pride for us," said Pape. "We are proud to represent the city of Wheeling, the County of Ohio, and all of the folks here and around Wheeling University."
Following Coach Pape's address, senior Captain Emma Tai presented the Council with a signed jersey commemorating their season. The team was then invited up onto the stage to take a picture with the council members, rounding out the night. Athletic Director Carrie Hanna was in attendance and was proud of the dedication Pape and his team showed to the university both on and off the field throughout the historic run.
"Ken Pape and his team accomplished a historic feat during their inaugural season, and we are proud to have them as part of our Wheeling Athletic family," said Hanna. "These women represented the university with grace and class, while being able to have success on the field, bringing home the university's third-ever National Championship."