The Marauders scrimmage during a recent practice at Jesuit High School in Carmichael. Photo courtesy of Jesuit High School

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Jesuit High School Sacramento’s Varsity Rugby team was selected to participate in the prestigious 2024 Sanix World Rugby Youth Tournament in Munakata City, Fukuoka, Japan. Jesuit student-athletes and coaches will be in Japan for 12 days from April 24 through May 6. 

The invitation marks a significant milestone as Jesuit Rugby becomes the first team from the United States to compete in the international event.

The Jesuit High student-athletes traveling to Japan are from Carmichael, Orangevale, Rancho Murieta, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Woodland, El Dorado Hills, Roseville and Auburn.

Team members from Carmichael are Brody Bisbiglia, Cannon Davey, John Hartman, Connor Hoertsch, Johannes Kungys, Broden Leonard and Barrett Saich.

Team members from Sacramento are Joshua Baleiwelagi, Duncan Broughton, Evan Brown, Garrett Brown, Alan Cordano, Tyler Garcia, Gordon Harder, III, Camden Montgomery, Nolan O'Flaherty, Dean Osborn, John Patock and Peyton Templeton.

Tristan McLoughlin is from Orangevale, Cooper Getz is from West Sacramento,  Xavier Meyers is from Rancho Murieta and Spencer Grammer is from Woodland.

Team members from El Dorado Hills are Elijah Jackson, Luke Johnston, Wade Johnston, Logan Keefe and Joshua Rucker.

Team members Laim Arnoult is from Roseville and Laim Maverick Nagel is from Auburn.

The Sanix World Rugby Youth Tournament brings together top-tier high school rugby teams worldwide, including nations such as South Korea, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, Fiji, China, and, for the first time, the United States. The tournament is held during the Japanese national holiday known as Golden Week.

Jesuit Rugby's invitation to the Sanix Tournament is a testament to its exceptional performance and rich sports history. With a commendable second-place finish at the national tournament last year, USA Rugby recognized Jesuit's outstanding achievements and contributions to the sport and nominated the team to represent the United States in this event.

“We are honored by this invitation and it would be our Marauders first overseas tour,” head coach Andrew Acosta said. “Last year’s team, which placed second in the U.S. National Invitational Tournament, was senior-heavy with 20 players graduating in 2023. However, I am extremely impressed with our current team; this talented young group is learning fast. This will be a tremendous experience for our team and a great way for the rugby world to see Jesuit in action.” 

The annual tournament at the Global Arena Complex in Fukuoka will feature eight Japanese and eight international high school teams. Jesuit Rugby looks forward to showcasing its talent on the global stage. 

“Jesuit Rugby is part of a rich tradition of athletic excellence at Jesuit High School. This group of student-athletes and coaches are excited and humbled to represent not only their families and school but also the Sacramento region and the United States,” said the school’s President Chris Alling.

For more information on how to support Jesuit Rugby's participation in the 2024 Sanix World Rugby Youth Tournament, visit www.JesuitHighSchool.org/news.

 The Jesuit Rugby travel team members pose for their official roster photo in preparation for their first international trip. Photo courtesy of Jesuit High School

About Jesuit High School Sacramento 

Jesuit High School Sacramento is a regional Catholic high school that provides young men with a life-building experience and delivers an academically rigorous college-preparatory education to prepare graduates for lives of leadership and service.

Founded in 1963, Jesuit Sacramento’s student body represents diversity in geography, ethnicity, religious affiliation and socioeconomic background. The home of “The Marauders” has one of Northern California’s most successful men’s athletic programs with more than 325 league championships, 133 section championships, 31 state championships, and 14 national titles.

Fostering a “Men for Others” culture of service, Jesuit boasts more than 22 visual and performing arts offerings, a robust Honors and Advanced Placement curriculum, and a club for every passion.