ANNAPOLIS, Md. – As the buzzer sounded on the final match of the day, Navy players let out an emphatic yell as they embraced and hugged on the field, following the program’s defeat of defending Armed Forces Women’s Rugby champion, Army, Saturday.
But they had to quickly temper their excitement because they have not achieved their ultimate goal.
On the same field where several All-Navy players competed as cadets, they upset an All-Army team that had suffered only one loss since the Armed Forces Women’s Rugby Championship’s inception in 2019.
Navy’s players celebrated their first ever win vs. the All-Army women’s rugby team, snapping the Soldiers’ 14-match winning streak.
“I don't know if there are words,” said Navy...
08.07.2026 | ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND, US |
Story by Joe Lacdan
U.S. Space Force 1st Lt. Sara Scrapchansky, fights through the tackle during the 2026 Armed Forces Women's Rugby Championship at U.S. Naval Academy Rugby Field on Naval Support Activity Annapolis, Aug. 2, 2026. Service members will compete in rugby for championship honors while representing their respective services.
The Armed Forces Sports program brings together service members from the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force (with Space Force athletes) to compete at the national level. Armed Forces Sports promotes physical fitness, provides competitive opportunities for military athletes at national and international levels, supports recruitment and retention efforts, and strengthens partnerships through sports diplomacy. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Ray Robinson III)
Day 3 of the Armed Forces Sports Flag Football Championship delivered another day of competitive action at Cougar Stadium in San Antonio. Service members from across the Department of Defense continued their pursuit of a championship title, demonstrating teamwork, resilience and athletic excellence on every play. With each game, the competition grows more intense as teams advance toward the final rounds.
Army (5-0) erupted for two second half scores and withstood a furious Air Force attack to win their fifth Armed Forces Rugby Championship in dramatic fashion 15-14 at Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center.
After decisive wins over Coast Guard and the Marine Corps, the All-Air Force Women’s Rugby team battled Navy to the final minute Saturday night in the 2025 Armed Forces Women’s Rugby Championship.
Army erased a 15-7 deficit vs. Navy to win 27-15, then rallied from behind for another victory, 31-14 vs. Coast Guard.
