“With You” Always: US Naval Academy Rugby

The Rugby support term “With You”, has been an integral part of the sport since its origin when formal rules were established in 1845.  The phrase is used on the rugby pitch constantly to let the ball carrier know that a teammate is in position to support an offensive attack.  In fact, the phrase “With You” would prove to be a natural fit for Midshipmen at the US Naval Academy who began organized tackling, scrumming, rucking and mauling on Dewey Field and later Farragut Field in 1963, -because it aligned universally with the Navy’s holistic emphasis on selflessness and teamwork.  Inscribed above the main doors of the Naval Academy Chapel are the Latin words “Non Sibi Sed Patriae”, which translate to “Not for Self, But for Country.”   

 Because of the commitment to excellence and the intrinsic underlying “With You” ethos, Navy Rugby has since flourished.  By way of history, beginning in 1963, USNA Rugby quickly gathered momentum first as a Brigade Intramural sport and through exhibition matches, -then to being recognized by the Naval Academy Athletic Director and NAAA as a sanctioned sport in 1969.  As a result, in 1969, a now official USNA Navy Rugby team scheduled intercollegiate games, going on to win the Potomac Rugby Union in their first year.  As the Navy Men’s Rugby program continued to establish a rich history, the Women’s Navy Rugby program was established in 1996 and quickly settled in, winning the Mid Atlantic Rugby Union Championship in 1998 and finishing 3rd in the national rankings. The Women Navy ruggers have since gone on to win two fall national championships in 2021 and 2022.  In the latest chapter, both Navy Rugby programs officially became varsity sports in 2023, and the men won their first national championship.

There is no doubt that the Navy Men’s and Women’s programs have achieved great success on the pitch and are poised to continue a legacy of winning.  But, the phrase “With You” has a more important connotation for all Navy Ruggers.  Saying “I am With You” is a commitment to teammates that embodies a lifetime of fellowship, and a true hallmark of what Navy Rugby is about.  In his Navy Rugby Alumni Hall of Fame Player address, Joe Buenavista, USNA 1987, expanded on the phrase and described being “With You” as an unwavering support, total commitment, and absolute love for fellow teammates, shipmates, family, and friends, -inspired and informed by the sport of Rugby. (paraphrased)    

WITH YOU ALWAYS