Let’s Go Barons! Franciscan Takes On WVU for 8th Annual Rugby Ruckus

STEUBENVILLE—It is that time of year again! Fans and spectators, prepare for the eighth annual Robert D’Anniballe Rugby Ruckus to be held on Saturday, Oct. 1, at Harding Stadium. Franciscan University of Steubenville’s Baron rugby ream faces West Virginia University beginning at 7 p.m.

The ruckus honors Bob D’Anniballe and his generosity towards the rugby team three years before the event was created.

 “The Rugby Ruckus serves as a bridge from Franciscan to the community to introduce an exciting sport few of us have seen,” said Franciscan University’s athletic director Chris Ledyard.

Since 2004, Franciscan University hosts the Robert D’Anniballe Rugby Ruckus as an opportunity for the local community and the University to come together to support Baron Rugby as they take on a prominent, regional university’s rugby team.

The Baron Rugby team hopes to repeat last year’s victory as they defeated the Fighting Falcons of Fairmount State, 35-10.

“I think it’s going to be a great game. West Virginia has one of the premiere rugby programs in the tri-state area,” said head coach Mark Hanrahan. “Our guys always seem to play a little better in the ruckus because of the high level of competition.”

The Barons are currently ranked tenth in the nation, holding a 1-0-1 record so far this season after tying the Fairmont State University Falcons, 0-0, and beating Washington and Jefferson College the second game of the season, 59-5.

Prior to the Ruckus, the D’Anniballe family invites all to a tailgate party from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Stanton Building across from Harding Stadium.

The event is sponsored by Ambulance Service, Inc., Checker Transportation, Jefferson Security Services, and TEAM Automotive.

The price of admission is $5 for adults and $3 with a valid Franciscan University student ID, children ages 7-12, and senior citizens. Children six and under are free. All proceeds benefit the Baron Rugby Football Club. For further information, please call the Athletic Dept. at Franciscan University at 740-283-6313.