February 19, 2025

Wheeling Women’s Rugby Team Honored by West Virginia Legislature

WHEELING, W.Va., Feb. 19 – After winning the National Collegiate Rugby Women’s Division I 15’s National Championship, the Wheeling University Women’s Rugby team has received a whirlwind of support from all around. That support extended to the state level on Tuesday, as the team was invited to the West Virginia State Senate to be honored for their national title. 

Head Coach Ken Pape is so grateful for all the support his team has gotten in their inaugural season and is looking forward to growth in the future.  

“What an amazing experience, it has truly been an honor to be a part of this university,” said Pape. “With all that we have accomplished and the direction the university is going under the direction of Dr. Vargo, Carrie Hanna, and Ricky Moore, Wheeling University is proving every day that we are Wheeling’s University” 

The day began with the team heading to the West Virginia Capitol in Charleston. The team was introduced to members of the West Virginia House of Representatives, as well as the Senate and then headed to the gallery to start the day. During the meeting, a proclamation was read in the House of Delegates congratulating the team on its National Championship win. The team was then introduced in the gallery, with Pape, team members, and members of the administration being introduced. The team was recognized for its accomplishment and met with different members of state government. 

Following the meeting, the team met with several high-ranking state officials and Wheeling University Board Chair David Hendrickson. The afternoon began with lunch hosted by Hendrickson. The team then traveled to the meet West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey, followed by meetings with Attorney General JB McCuskey and Secretary of State Marc Warner.