University of Michigan
![University of Michigan Rugby University of Michigan Rugby Ann Arbor](https://www.usaislanders.com/sites/default/files/university-of-michigan.png)
University of Michigan Rugby competes in the Big Ten Rugby Conference at the Division 1-A level. Michigan, one of the Big Ten's dominant teams, played Kutztown at the 2014 ACRC Bowl Series.
This fall saw the Wolverines post big victories against Illinois and Wisconsin (handing the Badgers their only conference loss) and lose to regular-season conference champ Indiana by a razor thin 19-17 margin.
The club's modern history on campus dates to 1959. Michigan qualified for the Midwest D2 playoffs in 2001, 2003, 2006 and 2011 and were D2 champions in 2004 and 2007. The team moved up to D1 in 2012.
All matches are played on campus on Mitchel Field; follow matches live @UMRFC.
Team Vitals
From Coach Brandon Sparks
The two best 2014 fall players?
Joel Conzelmann, senior, fly-half. Joel spent the summer in New Zealand where he perfected his skills and competed in their local tournaments. Joel has a total of 80 points this season or 30.8% of the teams total. His vision, leadership, and sound fundamentals make him a stand out for Michigan.
The other player is Jordan Ulmar, senior, tighthead prop. Jordan has been our iron man for the wolverines playing in all but 10 minutes of the season. He is a technical prop that takes pride in his defensive work rate. Jordan is a quiet, steady workhorse.
Most significant accomplishments over the last 2-3 years?
CRC appearance; perennial Big Ten power.
How has your team progressed in recent years?
Michigan has maintained its D1A top 20 standing for the entire year of 2014.
Who are your main conference rivals?
Ohio State; Michigan State; Indiana
What characterizes your style of play?
Open, fast, dynamic, defensive wolverineness—and fun.
Coaches
Head Coach: Brandon Sparks
Strength and Conditioning Coach/Assistant Coach: Stu Roche
Attack Coach/Assistant Coach: Dr. Zach Simkins
Skill Coach: Christian Mentzer, Chris Stock
Captain: Joel Conzelmann
Assistant Captain: Sequoyah Burke-Combs