Colorado Mesa University was selected to host the National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) DII National Qualifying Tournament. With the CMU pitch under construction, the team made the short trip to Palisade's Peach Bowl Park, squaring off against a field stacked with Utah programs.

The day opened with a rematch against Southern Utah University (SUU), who joined the conference this fall and were making their first trip to the area. Former Division I All-American Chloe Coop wasted no time, scoring just seconds into the match off a beautiful opening kickoff. That early try set the tone for a dominant performance, as Bentley Steyaert, Navaya Steele, Kay Simons, and Kate Irsfeld all crossed the try line—several multiple times. CMU's defensive consistency and relentless attack were on full display, with their speed and rugby IQ shining through in a decisive win.

Next up, the Mavericks faced the University of Utah. Riding the momentum from match one, CMU kept the pressure on. Coop once again opened the scoring—this time three minutes in—and the floodgates followed. Kaylee Burns and Sage Davis added to the tally as CMU showcased crisp tackling, strong support play, and effective offloads. Five different Mavericks recorded tries, highlighting the team's depth and balance in a commanding 38–0 victory.

In the third match, CMU faced Utah Tech for the first time in program history. The Mavericks continued firing on all cylinders, with Player of the Day Navaya Steele getting things started, followed by another score from Coop. Strong communication, clean poaches, and disciplined defense—with a few minor errors—powered CMU to a convincing 41–0 win.

The championship match featured a rematch with the University of Utah, and this time the Utes came out ready to compete. Utah struck early, keeping the game tight in the first half. Steele opened the scoring for CMU, but Utah answered quickly to make it 7–5. Coop added a crucial try before halftime to extend the lead. That would be as close as it got. CMU pulled away in the second half, with Coop scoring again and Gena Karpiel joining the action to seal the victory.

Across the tournament, eight different Mavericks found the try zone, underscoring the team's depth and versatility. Conversion kicking also proved to be a key strength, with Reese Williams and Bentley Steyaert combining for 30 points from the foot.
Navaya Steele and Chloe Coop each finished the day with seven tries, leading a standout team performance. CMU outscored opponents 157–17 across four matches, earning a perfect record and securing their place at the NCR Collegiate Rugby Championships.

Fans can catch the Mavs in action again in Fort Collins on April 12 before they head to Boyds, Maryland, later in April for Nationals. For updates and additional information, follow the team on Instagram and Facebook.

CMU v Southern Utah 10am - Won 47-5
CMU v Utah 11:40am - Won 38-0
CMU v Utah Tech 1pm - Won 41-0
Championship Match CMU v Utah 2:20pm - Won 31-12
 
Trys on the Day:
Kaylee Burns (1)
Chloe Coop (7)
Sage Davis (2)
Kate Irsfeld (2)
Gena Karpiel (1)
Kay Simons (1)
Navaya Steele (7)
Bentley Steyaert (3)
 
Conversions on the Day:
Bentley Steyaert (9) 
Reese Williams (6)