Toughness Defines 2025 DIII Title Contenders

The 2025 Men's Division III National Championship semifinals are confirmed for Houston, featuring #5 Slippery Rock, #7 Franciscan, Holy Cross, and New Mexico Tech. The Allegheny Rugby Union impressively boasts two contenders, setting up a compelling potential all-ARU final. Franciscan, driven by a significant chip on its shoulder, notably upset #1 Slippery Rock 15-7 earlier this season before conquering a "murderer's row" South Regional, propelled by Christopher Ascough's 27 regional points. Their formidable opponent, Holy Cross, defied expectations after losing key players, upsetting Nichols 36-28 in the East Regional final through sheer grit, led by hooker Christopher Dalton's four clutch postseason tries. On the other side, Slippery Rock secured their spot with a dominant 31-12 victory over Wisconsin Eau Claire, while New Mexico Tech advanced from the West through two thrilling one-point wins, including a 15-14 decision against Colorado School of Mines. These highly anticipated matchups, streaming live at tv.ncr.rugby, promise intense physicality and compelling narratives, essential viewing for US rugby fans eager to crown the next DIII national champion.