NORTHFIELD, Vt. – Two standout members of the Norwich University women's rugby program have earned selections to compete in the prestigious 2026 USA Rugby U23 All-Star Tournament, set to take place June 19-21 in Clearwater, Minn.
Sophomore prop Sophia Taylor (Canaan, N.H.) has been selected to represent the New England U23 All-Stars, marking her first appearance in the national showcase event. Junior Carlyan Vigbedor (Centreville, Va.) will make her second consecutive appearance in the tournament, representing the Mid-Atlantic U23 All-Stars.
The USA Rugby U23 All-Star Tournament brings together some of the top collegiate and emerging rugby talent from across the country. Players are selected to regional all-star squads and compete against one another in front of national team scouts, coaches, and rugby development staff. The event serves as a key pathway for athletes pursuing higher levels of competition within the USA Rugby system.
Head Coach Baylee Annis '14 praised both student-athletes for their selections and the impact they have made within the Cadets program.
"Proud is an understatement," said Annis. "Sophia Taylor's selection after her sophomore season shows what talent and tenacity she has carried through her career already. Taylor has been a force in the front row for Norwich University and will be an incredible asset to the New England squad as they take on the rest of the country."
Taylor has quickly established herself as one of the top forwards in the region, becoming a cornerstone of Norwich's pack through her physical play, consistency, and work ethic. Her selection to the New England side reflects both her development at Norwich and her growing reputation on the national stage.
Vigbedor enters the tournament with previous U23 All-Star experience and continues to build an impressive rugby resume after another standout season for the Cadets.
"All-American Carlyan Vigbedor is representing home in Virginia for the second year with the Mid Atlantic squad and will be one to watch," Annis said. "Hard charging in attack and a dynamic defender, Vigbedor has been our top try scorer this season and will bring lots of talent and elite-level experience after selection in January with the NCR All-Stars."
One of the most dynamic players in collegiate rugby, Vigbedor's ability to create scoring opportunities while excelling defensively has made her one of the top performers in the nation. Her return to the U23 All-Star stage highlights her continued growth and leadership within the Norwich program.
The selections also continue a strong tradition of Norwich athletes earning opportunities beyond the collegiate level.
"One of our program's guiding pillars is 'Rugby is a lifelong sport. Our players will be prepared for elite-level opportunities and senior side competition," Annis added. "I want to shout out our alumni Shannon Hobbs, Kate Desautels (Berg), Octavia Crawford, Alyssa Gioia, and Lillie Ells who have helped set the stage for the legacy of Norwich players that have followed in their footsteps. Norwich Rugby players are bringing our elite level of play beyond our college competitive seasons."
Fans will have an opportunity to see two Cadets square off against one another as Vigbedor and the Mid-Atlantic All-Stars take on Taylor and the New England All-Stars on Friday, June 19, at 12:30 p.m.
The tournament will be streamed live on the official USA Rugby YouTube channel.
