Wheeling, W. Va. – After winning the National Collegiate Rugby Women's Division I 15's National Championship, the Wheeling University Women's Rugby team has received a whirlwind of support from all around. That support extended to the state level on Tuesday, as the team was invited to the West Virginia State Senate to be honored for their National title. Head Coach Ken Pape, is so grateful for all the support his team has gotten in their inaugural season and is looking forward to growth in the future.  

"What an amazing experience, it has truly been an honor to be a part of this university," said Pape. "With all that we have accomplished and the direction the university is going under the direction of Dr. Vargo, Carrie Hanna, and Ricky Moore, Wheeling University is proving everyday that we are Wheeling's University." 

The day began with the team heading to the State Capital building in downtown Charleston, West Virginia. The team was introduced to both members of the West Virginia House of Representatives as well as the Senate and then headed to the gallery to start the day. Duing the meeting, a proclamation was red in the House of Representatives congratulating the team for their National Championship. The team was then introduced in the gallery, with Head Coach Ken Pape, team members, and Wheeling Administration being introduced. They were recognized for their first year accomplishment and had a meet and greet with different members of the state government. 

Following the meeting, the team met with several high-ranking officials both at the university level and the state government level. The afternoon began with lunch with Wheeling University Chairman of the Board David Hendrickson. Hendrickson met with the team and celebrated their accomplishment both for the team and the university. They followed that up with a trip to the governor's office where they met with West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey. They would then round out the day with trips to the offices of West Virginia General Attorney JB McCuskey and Secretary of State Marc Warner to round out the day. 

The Wheeling University Women's Rugby team is now preparing for their Spring 7's Season, which is set to kick-off on Saturday, March 8th, at the Peach 7's in Atlanta Georgia.