Norwich Men’s Rugby Team Shines at the 2025 Chris Munn 7s Tournament: A Tribute to Excellence
NORTHFIELD, Vt. – The Norwich University men’s rugby team delivered an impressive performance at the highly-anticipated 2025 Chris Munn 7s Tournament, showcasing their skills and determination on the pitch. The team advanced to the semifinals, ultimately facing off against the formidable Dartmouth College, in an intense match that showcased the spirit of competition and camaraderie.
Honoring a Legacy: The Chris Munn 7s Tournament
The Chris Munn 7s Tournament, held annually at Sabine Field, serves not only as a platform for exhilarating matches but also as a heartfelt tribute to Chris Munn ’81. A former captain of the Norwich rugby team, U.S. Army Colonel, and passionate advocate for ALS awareness, Munn’s influence continues to be felt within the Norwich community. This event is a testament to his enduring legacy, celebrated by teams that honor his contributions both on and off the field.
Dominating Pool Play
Norwich’s A Team started the tournament with a bang, demonstrating their prowess in pool play. They opened with an astonishing 29-0 victory against Middlebury College, showcasing their strong offensive and defensive strategies. The momentum continued as they steamrolled through the University of New Hampshire, delivering a convincing 45-0 shutout. Norwich’s final match in the pool stage was another impressive display, where they triumphed over the University of Vermont’s B Team with a score of 33-5, securing their spot in the semifinals.
Semifinals: A Hard-Fought Battle
The semifinals pitted Norwich against the equally determined Dartmouth College. In an exhilarating clash, the Cadets fought valiantly, but despite their best efforts, they fell short, finishing the game at 17-7. This defeat, though disappointing, highlighted the team’s grit and potential as they narrowly missed reaching the championship match. Dartmouth then advanced to face the University of Vermont in the final, where UVM claimed the title with a 28-12 victory.
Navigating Challenges: The B Team’s Journey
Norwich’s B Team also had a noteworthy day, demonstrating resilience and skill. They earned a decisive 34-0 victory against a combination of University of New Hampshire B and Norwich C, gaining valuable experience against tougher opponents and furthering their development within the sport.
A Day Beyond Rugby: Celebrating Chris Munn’s Influence
Amidst the thrilling matches, the true significance of the day resonated in the shared passion for rugby and the collective remembrance of Chris Munn’s legacy. His unwavering commitment to Norwich and the military continues to inspire not just the players but everyone involved in the Cadet rugby family.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Norwich Men’s Rugby
As the excitement of the tournament winds down, the Norwich men’s rugby team sets its sights on the upcoming NACR 7s Championship scheduled for Sunday, April 13. With their strong performance at the Chris Munn 7s serving as momentum, the Cadets are eager to build on their achievements and continue their journey in the competitive landscape of 7s rugby.
For more information on Norwich University’s rugby programs, you can visit their official page here.
The spirit of camaraderie, competition, and commitment to excellence shone brightly at the Chris Munn 7s Tournament, a perfect reminder of what rugby represents. Stay tuned for all updates as Norwich men’s rugby continues to make its mark on the field!
