GREENSBORO, NC — The Warren Wilson women's rugby team traveled to Guilford College on Saturday, April 5th, to compete in the first-ever NIRA 7s Championship, marking a historic moment for the program as they closed out their spring season.

Game 1: Bowdoin 33, Warren Wilson 5
The Owls opened tournament play against Bowdoin College, falling 5-33. Ella Knecht put the Owls on the board with a try, but Bowdoin's offense proved too strong in the opening round.

Game 2: Guilford 15, Warren Wilson 0
In the second match, the Owls faced host Guilford College. Despite a valiant defensive effort led by Ella Knecht and Verena Pate with six tackles each—and strong support from Priscilla Wadlington with five—the Quakers managed to keep the Owls scoreless and claim a 15-0 win.

Game 3: Emory & Henry 24, Warren Wilson 10
The Owls came out firing in their third game, with back-to-back tries from Knecht and Sabine Costello-Sanders giving them an early lead. However, Emory & Henry responded with consistent pressure and pulled ahead to secure a 24-10 victory.

Game 4: University of New England 36, Warren Wilson 14
The final game of the day saw the Owls battling a strong University of New England squad. Ella Knecht scored her third try of the tournament, while Priscilla Wadlington celebrated a milestone with her first-ever try in an Owls uniform. UNE ultimately took the match 36-14.

With their spring 7s season concluded, the Owls look ahead to returning to the pitch this fall for their traditional 15s season. The team continues to grow and build with each match, and will carry valuable experience and momentum into Fall 2025.