NORTHFIELD, Vt. - The Norwich University women's rugby team closed out its 2025 home slate with a commanding performance on Saturday afternoon, rolling to a 44-12 victory over the University of Maine during program's annual Tackle Cancer Game on the Graveyard Pitch.

The Cadets struck early and often in a high-energy match that doubled as a celebration of community, purpose, and perseverance.  Powered by a four-try effort between Octavia Crawford (Shelburne Falls, Mass.) and Taina Negron (Melbourne, Fla.), Norwich surged ahead in the opening half and never looked back.

Crawford, who also two converted kicks on the afternoon, joined Ells and Negron with a pair of tries apiece, while Carlyan Vigbedor (Centreville, Va.), Lillie Ells (Centerville, Mass.), Leslie Malin (Brooklyn, N.Y.), and Isabelle Brandt (Amherst, N.H.) each added one to cap the scoring outburst.

The match also saw Norwich secure a pair of key set pieces, winning one scrum and one lineout while challenging Maine's possession throughout.

Saturday's contest marked the centerpiece of an effort ro raise awareness around breast cancer, as the women's rugby team partnered with Vermonters Taking Action Against Cancer (VTAAC) for the program's annual Tackle Cancer Game.  The afternoon began with a pre-match ceremony honoring those impacted by breast cancer, including a moment of silence and a flower presentation at midfield.  Senior Ava Smith (North Falmouth, Mass.) performed the National Anthem before kickoff, adding a powerful and emotional tone to the day's events.

On the field, Norwich channeled that energy into a dynamic display of attacking pace and physical defense, helping secure the Cadets' second-largest scoring output this season since their 73-5 win over the University of Rhode Island in late September.

With the win, Norwich improves to 3-1 on the fall and picks up back-to-back home victories on the Graveyard Pitch, following an earlier triumph over the University of Vermont during Homecoming Weekend.

The Cadets will now head on the road to close the regular season, traveling to Roger Williams University on Saturday, Oct. 25, for a 1:00 p.m. kickoff, before visiting the University of New Hampshire on Saturday, Nov. 1.