Match Report: Stanford Women's Rugby vs. Grand Canyon University

Date: March 27, 2026
Location: Steuber Rugby Stadium, Stanford, CA
Final Score: Stanford 43 - 12 Grand Canyon University

In an exhilarating display of skill and teamwork, the Stanford Women's Rugby team secured a decisive 43-12 victory over Grand Canyon University in the first round of the CRAA D1 National Championship Regionals. This commanding performance not only showcased Stanford's offensive prowess but also their defensive resilience as they continued to build momentum in the season.

The match began with intensity as both teams fought for territory. Stanford quickly found their rhythm, and the first try came in the 17th minute from center Jara Emtage-Cave, who completed a sensational line break from 60 meters out. Anabella Hernandez successfully converted the try, putting Stanford ahead 7-0.

In the 24th minute, winger Journey Washingtonhigh capitalized on a kick return after GCU attempted to relieve pressure inside their 22 meters. She gracefully glided around edge defenders to register her first try of the match.

The dynamic center, Emtage-Cave, struck again in the 30th minute. After tackling a GCU player and stripping the ball, she sprinted 80 meters unhindered to score, followed by a successful conversion from Hernandez. The halftime score stood at 19-0 in favor of Stanford.

The second half saw a continued display of Stanford's dominance. In the 54th minute, Washingtonhigh scored again after a crucial tackle by Sydney Davis halted a GCU line break. The ball was lost in contact, and Washingtonhigh scooped it up to cross for another try, with Hernandez adding the conversion.

GCU managed to break through with a converted try in the 58th minute, but Stanford quickly responded. In the 67th minute, fullback Josie Davidson scored off a well-timed pass from first-year center Emma Lewis. Davidson sliced through the defense at midfield and showcased her ability to finish with a tremendous weaving run for the try.

The scoring continued in the 70th minute when flanker Sydney Davis executed a clever chip kick just outside the GCU 22 meters. Recovering the kick herself, she dove in for the try, showcasing her agility and awareness on the field.

Finally, in the 79th minute, senior Zoe Colloredo-Mansfeld capped off the match with a powerful try, stiff-arming three defenders before diving over the line. Both she and her second-row counterpart Paige Fitzpatrick were instrumental throughout the game, battling tirelessly in rucks and clearing space for their teammates.

Defensive accolades go to scrumhalf Vivian Studdert, Sydney Davis, Jara Emtage-Cave, captain Leila Wang Gaouette, and starting hooker Audrey Kaplan, who all contributed to a resolute defense that was critical to the team's success.

Shout-out to flyhalf Jacqui McLean, who stepped up to lead the attack with poise and intention. The Cardinal showed tremendous grit as each player worked tirelessly to put on a show for their home crowd.

With this victory, Stanford advances to the semi-finals, where they will face Life University, the runner-up of the D1 Elite National Championship last season. Kickoff is set for 10:00 AM on Sunday, March 29th at Steuber Rugby Stadium.

The exciting Saturday lineup also features the first semifinal of Brigham Young vs. Western Washington at 10 AM PDT, followed by the consolation game of Cal Poly vs. Claremont College, concluding with the D2 WCRC Conference Final of San Jose State University vs. Santa Clara at 3 PM.

For those who missed the action, catch the Cardinal's semi-final on YouTube @CRAARUGBY and follow @stanford_rugby on Instagram for updates. A huge thank you to all the friends and family who came out to cheer the team on!

Tries:
Jara Emtage-Cave (2)
Journey Washingtonhigh (2)
Josie Davidson
Sydney Davis
Zoe Colloredo-Mansfeld

Conversions:
Anabella Hernandez (4)
 

Stanford Women's Rugby Roster vs. GCU

Eva Lieberman ? Audrey Kaplan ? Leila Wang Gaouette ? Zoe Colloredo-Mansfeld ? Paige Fitzpatrick ? Isabelle McNabb ? Sydney Davis ? Kirsten Lees ? Vivian Studdert ? Jacqui McLean ? Journey Washingtonhigh ? Emma Lewis ? Jara Emtage-Cave ? Josie Davidson ? Anabella Hernandez ? Katherine Lai ? Elisabeth Holm ? Jana Gomri ? Elena Abarca ? Priyanka Patel ? Frankie Lewitton