by Gary Giepert '80

The Brother Martin Crusader Rugby Team opened its 2026 rugby season with a convincing 29-0 victory over Jesuit. Brother Martin opened the scoring after a turnover deep in Jesuit territory. The Crusaders worked phases, and first year wing, Brady Barbier, scored in the corner. The conversion was missed, and the score was 5-0.

At the 20-minute mark, captain Chris G’sell found a gap in the centers and went over for the try. Jacob Davidson converted the try, and the Crusaders held a 12-0 lead.

Shortly before the half, Brother Martin's senior fullback cut back against the grain and touched down for the try. Davidson was again good on the conversion, and the score stood at 19-0 at the half.

Jesuit came out determined in the second half and had the run of play in the third quarter of the game, but Brother Martin’s defense stiffened when needed.

At the 55-minute mark, senior vice-captain Austin Dupuis poached a ball, and the Crusaders quickly moved the ball with crisp passing to the wing, Tyler Gleason, who scored in the corner. The conversion was no good, making the score 22-0.

Junior center, Ahmaad Karim, scored the final try with an interception and an easy lane to the try line. The conversion was no good, and 29-0 was the final score.

Congratulations to the Brother Martin Rugby team on this outstanding victory!