Woy Woy coach leads Wisconsin win

Woy Woy resident and former Woy Woy Lions Rugby Union coach Mr Ross Hopkins has led the University of Wisconsin's Madison rugby union side to the Collegiate National Titles for the first time in 15 years.

Mr Hopkins coached the US University team throughout its season and said he was overwhelmed by its success.

"The season is short compared to what we are used to.

"However, we had nine wins and our only lose was in the mid-west final in Elkhart, Indiana, where we lost to the University of Miami in Ohio," Mr Hopkins said.

"Along the way, we took out the Wisconsin Collegiate title, the Wisconsin Sweet 16 title and by beating Kent State University meant we qualified for the national titles.

"It is exciting times for the University's rugby sides as we have progressed to a stage that rugby is taken very serious in a town dominated by college gridiron and basketball teams who are successful.

"The gridiron team has sell-out crowds of 82,000 each home game, so Madison goes crazy over their success.

"However, the rugby is building momentum nicely."

Mr Hopkins said he would be returning to the US in April next year for the national titles as well as to return for another season.

Mr Hopkins coached the Woy Woy Lions to consecutive finals series appearances in 2004 and 2005, was also involved in the Central Coast Wave's campaign when they won consecutive Caldwell Cups in 2005 and 2006.

Mr Hopkins confirmed he would again be in charge of the Central Coast representative team next year.

He also confirmed he would be a part of the coaching of Gordon first grade next season after two years coaching the club's second grade team.

Press release, 17 Nov 2008 University of Wisconsin