Pre-Game Release (PDF) | Game Program (PDF)

CHARLESTON, Ill. -- Having won their last five games, including a 96-0 rout of rival Illinois, the Eastern Illinois women's rugby squad will host Iowa State at noon on Sunday in the Panthers' home finale.

EIU, which enter the weekend at 8-1 overall, have actually kept six of their nine opponents off the scoreboard so far this season.

THE FOURTH MEETING ...
The meeting versus the Cyclones on Sunday will only be the fourth all-time between the Panthers and ISU, with Eastern owning a 3-0 all-time series advantage. Last year, Eastern won 61-5 in Ames, Iowa.

Prior to last season's meeting, EIU won two previous contests over ISU at home, winning a tight contest in 2008, 26-21, but routing the Cyclones, 75-0, in the first-ever meeting in 2005.

SALUTING THE SENIORS ...
Prior to the kickoff at noon on Sunday, EIU will honor three seniors for their contribution to the Panther rugby program -- flanker Emily Harrison, flyhalf Coartney McKinney and prop/lock Kristy Young.

COACH GRAZIANO SAYS ...
“Senior day is always a very emotional day for all of us,” said head coach Frank Graziano, “as it should be. The players are obviously very attached to each other and to the program, which makes it difficult to say goodbye.

“In their own way, all three of this season's seniors have had a unique and positive influence on the program, which is important. They each bring something different based on their skills and personalilities.

“I'm honored to have been their coach. Each have played in a variety of positions and made key plays in their careers.”

QUICK LOOK AT ISU ...
According to coach Graziano, Iowa State comes to Charleston having lost just one game this season. “Their only loss was last weekend to Northern Iowa. It will be a challenge for us, yet we have a bit of momentum heading into the game and are playing well right now.

“We would like to put a good performance out there for our fans and spectators. We have had absolutely incredible support this year.

“Plus being that it will be senior day, we definitely want our last home performance to be one of our best.”

NICE WEATHER AHEAD ...
Weather is looking good for Sunday, with mostly sunny skies and a high around 65-degrees or so.

... for more info, contact Bart Rettberg, Asst. SID