By EKU Rugby Staff · RICHMOND, KY-- The conference schedule of the EKU Men’s Rugby season came to an end following the forfeit of Western Kentucky University to the Colon…
RICHMOND, KY-- The conference schedule of the EKU Men’s Rugby season came to an end following the forfeit of Western Kentucky University to the Colonels on October 23. The cancellation was due to limited player availability and injuries. "I truly hate that this was the outcome," coach Johnny Haynes said in a statement on social media.
"At the end of the day however, the 'student' part of student-athlete is the most important part, and player health/safety comes first for us and our friends on the other side of the state."
Colonels fall at Middle Tennessee
The week was preceded by an 48-12 road defeat to the Middle Tennessee “Moosemen” on October 17. Travelling with 16 men, the Colonels were outmatched by the competition as the home team never relinquished their lead. A methodical Middle Tennessee offensive attack squeezed the Colonel defense into the center of the pitch and the Moosemen scored nearly all of their tries on the outside. The bright spots were Ryan Collinsworth and Beau Barker, who each scored tries for EKU, and substitution Aidan Douglass, who played in his first ever rugby match and filled in at flanker.
Farewell to Seniors
An unfortunate circumstance caused by WKU’s forfeit was the cancellation of Senior Day. Instead, the Colonels held a team dinner with players and coaches. The following seniors were recognized:
Jase Matheny : A scrum-half from Fort Wright, Kentucky, Jase is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a minor in homeland security. After graduation, his plans are to work in law enforcement. Surpassing 100 points scored earlier this fall, Matheny lists his favorite memory as his three-try performance against Western Kentucky with a fractured foot.
Kyree’ Burch : A Richmond, Virginia native, Burch played for EKU for four years at multiple positions for the Colonels. Kyree' is graduating with a bachelor's degree in Sports Management and plans to remain in Kentucky to obtain employment in college athletics management. "My favorite EKU rugby memory is when we fought our tails off down 3 men against Sewanee and still won," Burch said.
Looking Ahead
The Colonels wrap up their fall campaign with a 7s friendly exhibition at Boyce College on November 21. EKU previously travelled to Boyce for Seminary Sevens in April 2026, posting a 1-2-1 record.
Preliminary plans for the spring season were discussed at a recent team meeting, to include the second edition of the home Colonel Cup, at least one home exhibition, an intrasquad scrimmage, and partnerships with other rugby organizations in Kentucky. A complete schedule will be announced at a later date.