After defeating Providence College, 36-15 on Sunday, the women's rugby team has risen to No. 1 in the national rankings. The weekend victory improved Brown's record to 7-1, and this marks the first time in history that the Bears have claimed the No. 1 slot.
"We're obviously ecstatic about this ranking," said Becca Constantine '09. "It's the best in our team's 30-year history, and we're really proud to represent Brown rugby and the University in such a great light."
Brown sat at No. 3 last week, behind the United States Naval Academy and Pennsylvania State University. But when Navy lost to the University of Virginia 30-20 on Sunday, the Midshipmen dropped to No. 4 in the rankings, behind the Cavaliers, who moved to No. 3 with the win.
Though Penn State demolished the University of Maryland 104-0 on Saturday, Brown's victory over PC was considered more significant because the Friars are a stronger team than the Terrapins. As a result, Penn State remained at No. 2 this week.
The Bears were proud of reaching the No. 1 position, but they are taking careful precautions not to let the ranking go to their heads.
"No ranking, even No. 1, will win us a single game, much less a championship," said Alicia Hartley '10. "There is still a lot of improving we can do, no matter what the rankings say."
Brown will be back in action this weekend at the New England Rugby Football Union Championships. The tournament is hosted by the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, whom the Bears will face in the first round.
Afterwards, the Bears will travel to Bowdoin College Nov. 10-11 for the Northeast Rugby Union Championships, their final competition of the fall season.
"At this point, we will focus on maintaining our intensity through the post-season and playing solid games in the upcoming championships," Constantine said.
