Student Athlete Spotlight: Matt McCabe

Moeller Rugby started its season February 24th, with two home games against Rockford High School (MI) and Notre Dame de La Salette High School (IL). Moeller Rugby won the match against Rockford 27-0 and tied 19-19 against Notre Dame.

Moeller Rugby has made three straight state title game appearances, falling short each time. This year, the lads look to make the push to win a state championship.

The Crusader spoke to senior Matt McCabe about the upcoming 2024 season.

Crusader: How long have you been playing rugby?

McCabe: I have been playing four years. I started freshman year and loved it.

Crusader: What are the hopes for this season?

McCabe: Main goal is to bring home a state title. Others goals are bonding with teammates and having fun.

Crusader: How is the team coming together this year?

McCabe: The team is looking good with many players returning for their second, third, and fourth years, but it is always good to recruit new players to the sport.

Crusader: What are the team’s strengths this year?

McCabe: We are very athletic, have speed and strength. Most, if not all, of the varsity starters have great rugby IQ and are very smart players.

Crusader: Who are some players to look out for this year?

McCabe: There are three players to look out for this year. Eli Jacon Duffy–a stud that knows the game in and out and has the physical and mental ability to change the momentum of a game. Dom Valier–the big unit for the forwards. He is very scary running at full speed. Last but certainly not least, Isaac Shade. He is very fast and shifty; he can get us the game winning try or making a game saving tackle, hawking down the opposing team.

Crusader: With state title hopes for the season, how long have you been preparing?

McCabe: For me at least, it starting when the clock hit zero after the state game. I’ve been lifting and running in my off time. Rugby 7’s was a huge help in the fall, getting the rust off of last year and getting the gears tuned up for spring 15’s.

Good luck to McCabe and the rugby team as they set their sights on state!

Photo provided by Matt McCabe.

With high hopes for this season, it looks as if the team is coming together well. We are looking forward to watching the boys hit the pitch this spring, hoping they can make a run and win a state championship. Wishing Moeller Rugby the best of luck this season.