2025 Big Ten Universities Rugby Championship Weekend Preview

DUBLIN, OH – With final matchups confirmed and familiar rivalries reignited, the 2025 Big Ten Universities Rugby Conference Championship is gearing up for another high-energy weekend at Stinson Rugby Field, hosted by the University of Notre Dame.

Teams from across the conference will compete for Shield, Bowl, Plate, and Cup honors, while the Junior Varsity Championship features a compelling rematch that brings intensity, pride, and program depth to the spotlight. Sunday’s lineup features four marquee matches, each with its own storyline and stakes.

Shield Match - Purdue vs Illinois

Purdue and Illinois will open Championship Sunday in the Shield match. Both teams have shown flashes of promise throughout the season and now look to close out their campaigns with a strong performance.

Bowl Final - Michigan State vs Ohio State

The Bowl Final brings together Michigan State and Ohio State in a contest that highlights contrasting styles. The Spartans, known for their forward dominance and set-piece execution, will look to control the tempo. Ohio State counters with speed and precision, aiming to stretch the field and capitalize on open play. With both teams hungry for postseason redemption, this matchup is expected to be tightly contested from start to finish.

Plate Final - Michigan vs Wisconsin

The Michigan Wolverines square off against the Wisconsin Badgers in a Plate Final that promises physicality and pace. Michigan’s rise this season has been marked by aggressive attacking phases and improved defensive structure. Wisconsin, a perennial contender, brings a disciplined and balanced approach, aiming to capture the Plate title with clinical execution and composure under pressure.

Cup Final - Indiana vs Notre Dame

In the headline match of the day, the Indiana Hoosiers take on Eastern Division champions Notre Dame in a rematch of last year’s semifinal. Indiana enters with renewed focus and a deep, experienced roster, while the Irish look to extend their conference winning streak and attempt to capture the title on home turf. With both squads boasting dynamic backlines and tactical prowess, the Cup Final is poised to be a showcase of elite collegiate rugby.

Championship Weekend Outlook

The BTU Rugby Championship Weekend returns to Stinson Rugby Field on Sunday, November 9, 2025, with Shield, Bowl, and Plate Finals scheduled throughout the day.

In the Junior Varsity Championship, Ohio State’s Second Side will face Indiana in a rematch of last year’s thrilling contest, continuing a competitive rivalry between two deep programs.

The Cup Championship match kicks off at 4:30 pm ET, featuring the winners of Indiana vs Notre Dame. With elite talent and high stakes, fans can expect a dramatic conclusion to the 2025 BTU Rugby season.

Full Schedule

Second Side Competitions

About Big Ten Universities Rugby Conference

Founded in 2012, the Big Ten Universities Rugby Conference is an intercollegiate rugby competition in the United States with member clubs representing some of the largest and best academic public institutions in the country. Member clubs include; Indiana University, Purdue University, Michigan State University, Ohio State University, University of Illinois, University of Michigan, University of Notre Dame, and University of Wisconsin.

For more information, visit www.BigTenRugby.com and follow @BigTenRugby on Facebook (facebook.com/BTURugby) and Instagram (instagram.com/BigTenRugby).