Dons Rugby faced a major test this weekend, taking on the Jesuit Marauders, the #3 ranked team nationally, in a matchup that highlighted both the challenge ahead and the promise of the program’s future.

The Dons entered the match with a young and raw squad, starting freshmen at key positions 2, 8, and 10, along with eight other first-year players. Across the pitch stood a Jesuit side stacked with seniors, bringing experience, size, and composure to every phase of play.

Despite the uphill battle, the Dons showed resilience and flashes of attacking potential. Will Miller and Jake Mikalis each crossed the line for tries, rewarding sustained effort and moments of strong execution. However, Jesuit’s depth and discipline proved decisive, as they controlled possession and capitalized on opportunities to pull away.

The match ended 69–12 in favor of Jesuit, but the scoreline tells only part of the story. For the Dons, this fixture served as a valuable measuring stick and an important development moment for a squad gaining experience against elite competition.