Could there be a better place to spend UCSD’s last game of the 15s season than in beautiful Santa Barbara? 

UCSD began the game with intensity and grit, showing off their practiced structures and keeping steady hands on the ball to the final minute. It was particularly inspiring to see the dramatic improvement of rookies who joined in the fall and their newfound love for the sport, especially Kalpana Chadha and Sofia Valenzuela, after a few months of hard work. The final score of this deadly UC match up was a 7-45 loss.

A few players truly embodied the triton spirit in this final testament to perseverance. Megan Takeuchi broke through UCSB’s defensive line and scored a beautiful try before taking a step forward from the backs and playing as flanker for the last few minutes of the game. Stella Dorsey kicked a conversion, had numerous 8 man picks, and covered a lot of ground in her fantastic runs. Danae Cargill successfully fielded an astronomical kick and Andrea Mota had some textbook tackles playing lock. Mia Taylor took down UCSB’s offense left and right, and delivered a rounding speech to the backs which instilled a spirit of hunger for the ball which sustained UCSD for an exciting second half. Nikole had a notable tackle that saved UCSD from adding another try to the opponents tally. 

Highlights of the game included a standout defensive pressure that caused UCSB to knock on the ball. On offense, UCSD consistently was able to utilize the 15 meter channel and stay in bounds to make plays back inside. Powerful scrums from the forwards made it impossible for UCSD to be back. In addition, good decision making was apparent in calculated kicks that kept the ball out of the danger zone and helped cover offensive ground.

Overall, the game was a culmination of the trying 2026 season in which players worked their tridents off to build unmatched physical fitness and technique. Players refined their rugby IQs to create a formidable team of athletes, and most importantly, have fun on the pitch. UCSB proved to be a talented opposition who challenged UCSD to make a commitment to keep learning, applying, and committing throughout the sevens season and in years to come.