April 26, 2005

The University of California Golden Bears will square off in their semifinal match with the United States Naval Academy at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 29. Cal last played Navy in the 2004 Championships, earning a 32-15 result. Following Cal vs. Navy will be the second semifinal featuring the University of Utah vs. Brigham Young University at 4:00 p.m.

The semifinal winners will advance to the title game to be played at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, April 30. All matches will be played at Steuber Rugby Stadium on the campus of Stanford University.

Commenting on his team's 21st appearance in the National Collegiate Championships, Cal Head Coach Jack Clark stated, "It is as competitive of a final weekend as I can remember. We have had some epic battles with the Midshipmen and we have nothing but respect for them as a team."

The BYU and Utah match also presents Cal with familiar foes, should the Bears advance. Cal defeated Utah in the 2002 championship match, 43-22, and last played BYU in a regular season home victory, 33-22 in 2000.

USA Rugby, the sport's National Governing Body, allows the Utah schools dispensation for their religious missions, which in competitive terms results in the average age of these universities to be older than the norm.

"Yes they may be a bit more mature, but they are also skilled athletes who are well coached. These are two very good sides," continued Clark.