ANGOLA, Ind. – Indiana Tech Men's Rugby opened its inaugural 15s regular season with a hard-fought 36-22 victory over the Trine Thunder on Friday evening, marking the program's first official win at the collegiate level.
 
The Warriors entered the matchup fresh off a strong preseason, eager to set the tone for the year. Trine struck first at the 4-minute mark, powering across the line through a maul to take an early lead. The score sparked urgency in the Warriors, but composure and patience proved vital in the opening stretch.
 
Indiana Tech got on the board at the 11th minute when Dakota Faulkner slotted a penalty kick to cut into the deficit. The momentum shifted immediately after the ensuing kickoff. Settling into their offensive shape, the Warriors began to play with confidence, and Emery Crawford finished a clinical attacking sequence with the team's first try of the season.
 
From there, the Warriors controlled much of the first half. Jose Bethel powered over from a pick-and-go, and Faulkner capped a set-piece play with a try of his own. Just before halftime, Jude Rinesmith showed off his pace with a breakaway run down the edge, touching down to give Indiana Tech a commanding 29-5 lead at the break.
 
The second half tested the Warriors' resolve. Trine mounted a determined comeback, scoring multiple tries and pulling within a single score at 29-22. A yellow card early in the half left Indiana Tech playing down a man, and the Thunder pressed hard in both attack and defense.
 
But the Warriors showed grit in the closing stages. With just ten minutes remaining, Max Brinker created space with a smart offload to Sergio Trevino, who crossed the line to seal the result. Indiana Tech closed out the match with disciplined possession and secured the program's first regular season victory.
 
This matchup also marked the unveiling of the Commission Cup, a traveling trophy established by local rugby businessmen and supporters of both programs. The Cup will be contested annually between Indiana Tech and Trine, symbolizing the growth of collegiate rugby in Northeast Indiana. With the victory, the Warriors become the first holders of the Commission Cup.
 
"Tonight was a proud moment for Indiana Tech Rugby," said Head Coach Sam DiFilippo. "We showed composure after an early setback, executed our systems, and most importantly, found a way to close out the game when it mattered most. This is just the first step in building our tradition, but it's one we'll remember."
 

Match Summary
Final Score:
Indiana Tech 36 – Trine University 22
 
Tries:
Emery Crawford
Jose Bethel
Dakota Faulkner
Jude Rhinesmith
Sergio Trevino
 
Conversions:
Dakota Faulkner (4)
 
Penalty Goals:
Dakota Faulkner (1)
 
Assists:
Ashton Skarie
Max Brinker