CBA Rugby Travels to Ireland, Returns for Special Field Designation

The month of April has been a milestone month for the CBA varsity rugby team.

The Colts spent over a week in Ireland, both playing matches against local teams and learning about the Irish heritage and culture.

Over 35 student-athletes played three matches while in Ireland. After dropping the first two contests, the Colts completed their three-match span with a victory over Virginia County Cavan. TJ Meehan, Nate Crawford, and Dan Dinnell all scored tries for the CBA team, with Crawford also adding two conversions.

On the pitch, Nate Galinski won Player of the Tour and Try of the Tour went to Dan Dinnell for his solo try to win the game against Virginia.

When the Colts were gaining experience on the field, they took time to embrace all that Ireland has to offer.

The group was able to attend a women’s All-Ireland Cup match, tour the World Rugby headquarters, and visit the Ulster rugby stadium. Outside of rugby activities, they attended Easter Mass at Galway Cathedral, experienced the West Belfast Political Tour, and took part in an Irish Cultural Night with food and dancing. They were even able to go for a recovery swim in Galway Bay before they departed.

“We were very fortunate to be able to go to Ireland this year, and we all made the most of the experience,” senior captain TJ Meehan said. “We all had so much fun playing against Irish rugby teams and it was a learning experience for us all. We hope that future CBA Rugby teams are given this opportunity as well.”

Upon return to the friendly confines of New Jersey, the team hosted an international game against St. Mary’s Catholic from Ontario, Canada. Despite conceding an early try, CBA regrouped and dominated the second half of the game, ultimately winning with a score of 39-12. Ben Tortorici, Galinski, Meehan, Kyle Krebs, Lucas Raymond, Crawford, and Dinnell scored for CBA.

The match was also notable for the special designation ceremony that took place after the final whistle. The O’Gara-Montedoro Grass Fields, which had hosted both soccer and lacrosse since their creation, was officially named the new home of CBA Rugby. The fields have been outfitted with rugby uprights, custom windscreens and a new entry sign that visitors cannot miss.

About Christian Brothers Academy:

Christian Brothers Academy (CBA) is a private, Catholic, academic preparatory school for boys located in Lincroft, New Jersey. Founded in 1959 and taught in the Lasallian tradition, CBA is dedicated to helping students become intellectually mature and morally responsible leaders for society. Through generous contributions from family and friends of the Academy, CBA awards over $1.7 million in scholarships and financial aid to current students. Experience the Academy at CBALincroftNJ.org.