ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Navy men's rugby rising seniors
JD Bengston and
William Webb will serve as team captains for the 2024-25 season, announced by director of rugby
Gavin Hickie.
"It is always challenging selecting captains for our Navy men's rugby team. We expect everyone on our team to be a leader. This year's team captains, Bengston and Webb have earned their captaincy roles," declaimed Hickie. "Both men were first introduced to rugby here at Navy yet have excelled in their performances, both on and off the pitch over the past three years. Along with their firstie classmates, it's their turn to lead our team this season."
Bengston started 14 matches at the wing position for the Midshipmen during their second-straight national championship appearance season. The Tifton, Ga., native finished his junior campaign with six tries and 30 points including a try in the first-round playoff match against Mary Washington. The operations research major boasts a 2.97 cumulative GPA.
"Being named a captain of the men's rugby team here at the academy is easily the greatest honor of my life," said Bengston. "It shows the level of trust my teammates and coaches have in me to lead us in upholding the legacy of Navy rugby."
Webb, a native from Lexington, Ky., appeared in 15 matches with 14 in the starting lineup last season. He finished with seven total tries for 35 points. Four of his tries came in the playoffs against Arkansas State (2), Life (1) and in the national championship match against Saint Mary's (1). The cyber operations major holds a 3.06 cumulative GPA.
"It is an absolute honor and privilege to be named captain along with JD. We truly have some big shoes to fill with last year's leadership leaving. But that is anything but scary to us," said Webb. "The experiences and knowledge we were able to absorb from those guys and past captains have molded us into who we are. That's going to allow us to lead such great men day in and day out."
Navy will open its season on Saturday, Aug. 31 against Mount St. Mary's (Md.) at the Prusmack Rugby Center.
