NORTHFIELD, Vt. – National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) announced its 2025-26 Division II Scholastic All-Americans on Tuesday, June 16, recognizing student-athletes who have demonstrated excellence both on the rugby pitch and in the classroom. Norwich University women's rugby placed six student-athletes on the prestigious national list.
Representing the Cadets as NCR Division II Scholastic All-Americans are freshmen students Isabelle Brandt (Amherst, N.H.) and Joy Lu (Tucson, Ariz.), sophomore Sophia Taylor (Canaan, N.H.), and graduating seniors Maddy Carbonneau (Littleton, N.H.), Lillie Ells (Centerville, Mass.), and Lillian Lu (Tucson, Ariz.).
The NCR Scholastic All-American designation recognizes student-athletes who have distinguished themselves through outstanding academic achievement while competing at a high level on the field. The honor reflects a commitment to excellence across all aspects of the collegiate student-athlete experience.
Norwich Head Women's Rugby Coach Baylee Annis '14 praised the group's dedication to academic success and the standard they continue to set within the program.
"Excelling in the classroom falls under Norwich Rugby Guiding Pillar #2: Expect the best of every team member," said Annis. "This year's batch of Academic All-Americans are showing what it means to bring their best into every setting from the pitch to the classroom and beyond into their communities. Our seniors have set a high standard of academic achievement throughout their time at Norwich."
The recognition highlights the strength of Norwich Rugby's culture, which emphasizes success both academically and athletically. The six honorees played important roles in the program's continued success while maintaining exceptional performance in their academic pursuits.
Among the recipients is graduating senior Lillian Lu, who will continue her academic and athletic journey at Norwich as a graduate student this fall.
"We're honored that Lillian Lu, a 2026 graduate and Academic All-American, plans to continue with the team and university for graduate school this fall," Annis added. "With such a strong legacy, the team will really benefit from her experience and skills in sport and education."
The six selections continue a tradition of academic excellence within the Norwich Women's Rugby program and reflect the commitment of Cadet student-athletes to achieving success in the classroom, in competition, and within the community.
