Medina Boys Varsity Rugby team defeated Avon Lake 38-17 at Fortress Obetz Stadium to claim the team’s first State Championship. Medina controlled the first half with stifling defensive pressure, turning away multiple Avon Lake scoring opportunities in the first half. On attack, the Bees used quick ball movement from its backline and hard running from its forward pack to take a commanding 19-0 lead at the halftime. Seniors Colt Crabiel, Drew Boothe and Vinny Pfahl all scored first half tries for the Bees with Senior Dylan Boothe adding two conversion kicks. The Bees continued to pressure the Shoremen in the second half on both attack and defense. A well worked backline play resulted in a try from Senior Cade Cass 5 minutes into the second half. After a converted try by Avon Lake, Medina responded with a second try from Senior Vinny Pfahl. Sophomore Ethan Neuwirth secured the victory for the Bees with a try in the last minutes of the match. Senior Dylan Boothe and Sophomore Blaine Chrisman kicked one conversion each in the 2nd half. Avon Lake crossed the try line to score their final try as time expired to bring the final score to 38-17. Senior Vinny Pfahl was named Man of the Match, scoring 2 tries and making multiple tackles throughout the game.
MEDINA RUGBY 