Iona Finishes 3-2-1 in Bermuda
Iona accepted the challenge of not only their first trip to the Ariel Re Bermuda 7s tournament, but their first sevens tournament in program history. Although Iona has taken in part in URugby events since 2014, namely the URugby Bowl Series, the team was keen to see what the world of sevens had in store for them. In their first appearance in the Ariel Re Bermuda 7s tournament, the Iona College Gaels brought their A game with a final record of 3-2-1.
Iona’s team consisted of players who have already made a name for themselves during the 15s season including Michael Scarcella, LaVar James, and Michael Marro. Both James and Marro are known for their solid defense and try-scoring ability. Scarcella was named DIA MVP Back of the Fall by Goff Rugby Report.
The Gaels started pool play with a 19 - 7 victory over the St. Joseph University's second side. In their second match against an experienced Rowan University side, the game ended in a 14 - 14 tie. Their first day ended with an exciting 19 - 12 victory over Stony Brook University. "Winning our pool the first day was a great accomplishment especially beating a solid team like Stony Brook," said LaVar James.
Having to work around some injuries, the Gaels started their second day started with a 26 - 14 loss to the eventual third place finishing St. Joseph's, followed by a 17 - 14 win over Rowan.
In one of the most anticipated rematches of the tournament, the Gaels took one on the chin to Stony Brook with a 12 - 7 loss in the Plate final. LaVar James knows that his team performed well. "Although we lost the plate final to Stony [Brook], we played hard and can't wait to play them again in two weeks at their place."
LaVar James only had two words to say when asked about the overall experience; "Just beautiful". The field location was the best grass field James has ever seen and the field came with a view of the island. He was blown away with the ability to finish playing a rugby match to unwinding and relaxing on the beach. Besides the view of the island, the team set some time aside to enjoy the breath taking beaches and crystal clear water. "My teammates will all agree that this was a great decision by us to come and we were honored to be there. I think I speak for all of us when I say we're looking to come back next year, and win the whole thing next time."
2017 Ariel Re Bermuda 7s Iona Results
Stony Brook University 12 vs 7 Iona College (Plate Final)
Rowan University 14 vs 17 Iona College (Plate Semis)
Iona College 14 vs 26 St. Joseph's University (Cup 1/4s)
Stony Brook University 12 vs 19 Iona College (Pool)
Iona College 14 vs 14 Rowan University (Pool)
St. Joseph's University II 7 vs 19 Iona College (Pool)
