[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 105 (Friday, June 22, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E898]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE UNC CHARLOTTE MEN'S RUGBY TEAM

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. RICHARD HUDSON

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 22, 2018

  Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the UNC Charlotte 
49ers Men's Rugby Team and congratulate them on their National Men's 
DII 7s Championship. The 49ers defeated the University of Wisconsin 
Whitewater on May 20, 2018.
  Led by Coach Brent ``Bo'' Pasko, UNC Charlotte capped off an 
impressive undefeated 2018 season and won its third straight Southern 
Rugby Conference championship. In the quarterfinals, the team defeated 
Principia College and moved on to eliminate Bloomsburg University in 
the semifinals. In the championship game, the Niners bested the 
University of Wisconsin Whitewater (38-10) to secure a perfect record 
during the tournament.
  The 49ers jumpstarted the championship game with fly half and MVP 
Michael Basnett scoring the first two tries in rapid succession. 
Wisconsin Whitewater responded by drawing the game within two points 
before Basnett crossed once more--advancing the score to 19-10. In the 
second half, the 49ers opened the flood gates and tries were scored 
swiftly. Basnett dominated the second half, scoring at will and 
orchestrating the 49ers' offense to perfection.
  It was an immense victory for UNC Charlotte. In defeating the 
University of Wisconsin Whitewater, the 49ers upset the reigning 
Division II Rugby 15s and 7s champions. As a proud UNC Charlotte Rugby 
Alumnus, it brings me great pride to recognize these extraordinary 
young men as well as all of the coaches and support staff that made 
this Championship possible. The hard work and dedication exhibited by 
each member of the team during the season will continue to serve them 
well in life. They are a source of pride to both UNC Charlotte as well 
as the surrounding community. I already can't wait to see what 2019 has 
in store for the 49ers.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating the UNC Charlotte 
49ers Men's Rugby Team on their national title. Go mean green.

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