Wheeling, W. Va. - In two weeks, some of the top College Rugby players from across the country will make their way to Portugal for the annual Algarve 7's. National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) has built a team of some of the best collegiate rugby players across the country an the Wheeling University Men's Rugby team will be represented on this year's list. Senior Michael Muleya will represent the Cardinals as part of the Griffin's 7's team, bringing his talents to the national stage.
During the 2024-2025 season, Muleya was a dual threat, helping the Cardinals to their highest finish in program history in 15's season, and their second straight 7's season National Championship. During the 15's season, Muleya was the team's leader in tackles, while adding on a try and five points. His try would come during one of the biggest moments of the fall, as he helped the Cardinals get past Notre Dame in the NCR Quarterfinals to advance to the semifinals for the first time in program history. As they moved into 7's season, Muleya would continue to be a captain of the Carinal defense. During the National Title run, Muleya would score a try on day one of competition and playe a key part in the defensive stand that held St. Bonaventure to just five points in the National Title game.
Muleya was honored for his success following the 15's season when he was selected as one of 10 Cardinals to play in the 2025 Men's National All-Star Shield Challenge. Across the two days of competition, the senior would play a key role in the Great Lakes Thunderbird's offensive attack, scoring two tries and adding on three assists to round out the weekend. As a result, he was picked as a member of the event's All-Tournament team, standing as one of 23 players that were recognize across the Rising Stars an All Star teams. The Algarve 7's will be the second All-Star event that he has participated in during the 2024-2025 season, as he tries to help the Griffins chase down the Algarve 7's Championship.
The Algarve 7's tour is one of three high performance tours that the NCR is putting on this season. It will be a six day event held in Portugal with both men's and women's teams set to compete at the event. This year's Algarve 7's is the biggest event in the history of the event with Rugby being one of nine different sports to take place. It will be held in Algarve, Portugal at the Vila Real De Santo Antonio and Castro Marim. Teams will report on June 6th, with an opening party being held for participating athletes. Competition begins on June 7th, with two days of competition taking place in both the men's and women's fields. It is the largest international rugby tournament in Europe, giving the athletes a chance to shine on the international circuits, biggest stage.
The Algarve 7's Tournament kicks off on Saturday, June 7th in Algarve, Portugal. Get more tournament information by clicking HERE.
