Ruairi Conway, Contributing Photographer
Rahul Manay, a junior, is in his third season as a member of the men’s club rugby team.
In the New York State Semifinals on Oct. 24, Manay had 18 tries against Canisius College, leading his team to a 33-28 victory.
The team now moves on to play in the New York State Championships, where they will defend their title as New York State champion against SUNY Plattsburgh in Potsdam on Nov. 7.
1. What is your earliest memory playing rugby?
My earliest memory of playing rugby was my freshman year when I got winded after taking my first big hit during practice. I remember watching my mouth guard fly out of my mouth and hitting the ground hard. It was an experience I will never forget.
2. Who have you consistently looked to for inspiration?
My teammates have always my inspiration on the field. We look to each other for motivation and strength to power through the game from kick-off till the final whistle blows.
3. What drove you to play so aggressively in the game against Canisius College?
The loss to Canisius College at the dying moments of the game during regular season fired everybody up. We were out for revenge in Buffalo, in front of their fan crowd on their home turf.
The Western Conference Finals were the best opportunity for us to prove something to ourselves and to those who doubted our ability as a team. We had to win to keep our season going. The only thing on everyone’s mind that day was to win, nothing less.
4. What does the club rugby team hope to accomplish in the rest of the season?
Now that we are Western Conference Champions, we have our focus set on beating Plattsburgh for the New York State Championship for the third time in four years this Saturday at Potsdam. From there, Regionals is the target and Nationals is the [ultimate] goal to reach after that.
5. Do you think that rugby will become a more dominant sport in the U.S.?
Rugby in the United States has grown a lot in popularity over the years and has the potential to attract more fans in time. The United States just took part in the Rugby World Cup in England, and I feel this was a good platform for many to find out what rugby is and what the great sport has to offer.
6. Would you rather go to Chipotle with Big Bird or Buzz Lightyear?
Buzz Lightyear—I’ve always wanted to try on his spacesuit.
Douglas is a member of the class of 2017.
