Sacramento, Calif. --  The Life University women's rugby team delivered a statement performance on the biggest stage, defeating BYU 40–14 to claim the CRAA Women's Division I XVs National Championship on April 11 at Heart Health Park.

In a championship final that doubled as the opening act for a Pacific Four Series doubleheader, the Running Eagles wasted no time asserting themselves. From the opening whistle, Life played fast, physical, and precise—stringing together phases, applying constant pressure, and finishing clinically.

Life struck first in the 12th minute when Azhinaye Barner capitalized on a turnover and broke wide for the opening try. Just two minutes later, Danie Taulua capped off strong phase play to extend the lead. Angelina Mason added another in the 19th minute, powering over from close range, and Barner followed with her second in the 24th after a 60-meter break to push the advantage to 26–0.

BYU found a response with an interception try, but Life stayed in control. Christina Opeti answered shortly after with a try off a counter-ruck, and despite another BYU score, the Running Eagles had the final say of the half. Hattie Greenwood dotted down off the restart in the 37th minute to send Life into the break with a commanding 40–14 lead.

Mason was nearly perfect from the tee, converting 5-of-6 attempts to keep the scoreboard moving.

At halftime, severe weather rolled into the Sacramento area, prompting a lightning delay. With safety concerns and scheduling considerations surrounding the international matches set to follow, officials made the decision to end the match at the break, making the halftime score the final.

Despite the shortened contest, Life's first-half performance left no doubt. The Running Eagles showcased the same attacking efficiency and physicality that defined their season, earning the program a national title.

"It wasn't the full 80 minutes we prepared for, especially with the lightning delay interrupting at halftime." said Director of Rugby Ryszard Chadwick. "Building a 40-14 lead against a tough rival like BYU—showed our attacking dominance in the best possible way. The team worked incredibly hard all season, and this championship belongs to them."

Life supporters remained on hand following the match to take in the remainder of the day's international fixtures, celebrating as the Running Eagles secured the 2026 national championship.

Final Score
Life University 40, BYU 14

Tries
Azhinaye Barner (2), Danie Taulua, Angelina Mason, Christina Opeti, Hattie Greenwood