New York, N.Y. – The Southern Virginia University rugby team traveled to compete in the Old Blue 7s Collegiate Cup this past weekend, capturing the tournament title and earning an automatic qualifier (AQ) for the national tournament.

The championship marks the first time in program history that the Knights have secured an AQ berth to nationals, which will take place April 24–25.

Southern Virginia put together a dominant performance throughout the tournament, finishing with a perfect 5-0 record. The Knights capped off their run with a 17-7 victory over defending champion St. Bonaventure University, last year's national runner-up.

John Mann was captain, and Kahanu Koi received 

"I'm just super proud of our boys," said the head coach. "They fought and put their bodies on the line each and every game and played for each other. It was fun to watch and to see them celebrate together. It has been a long time since I have felt the way I did after we won the final game. I'm super happy and proud to be a part of it."

This marks Southern Virginia's second AQ of the season, having also earned one the previous weekend in South Carolina.

The Knights opened the tournament with commanding wins before battling through a competitive semifinal and closing strong in the championship match.

Tournament Results:

Game 1: Southern Virginia def. Nazareth, 41-0

Game 2: Southern Virginia def. Columbia, 54-0

Game 3: Southern Virginia def. Siena, 22-12

Semifinals: Southern Virginia def. Kutztown, 26-21

Finals: Southern Virginia def. St. Bonaventure, 17-7

With the victory, the Knights continue to build momentum heading with a senior day game against N.C State on Saturday, April 4th before heading into nationals later this month.

For the latest updates on Southern Virginia University rugby, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knight_rugby on Instagram.