About the Program

Bowdoin College holds an elite status among collegiate women's rugby programs. The Polar Bears are one of just a half-dozen squads in the nation to claim "varsity" status and have continued their rich tradition of success since making the move from "club" designation in 2003.

The Polar Bears have made several appearances in the New England Rugby Football Union playoffs, and placed in the 2003 postseason. In the fall of 2009, Bowdoin enjoyed one of the most successful seasons in program history, capturing the New England Division II Championship with a 23-12 victory over the University of New Hampshire at Pickard Field. The Polar Bears advanced to the Northeast Regional Final as well, earning a bid to the National Championship "Elite Eight" in April of 2007.

The program plays six regular season games in the fall and also has a limited spring slate. In the past few seasons, several Polar Bears have gone on to compete for regional and national sides, evidence of the expanding popularity of the sport. The team consists of both an "A" and "B" side, allowing as many athletes to compete as possible, while maintaining a competitive level of play. Coach Marybeth Mathews emphasizes strong sportsmanship in creating a safe and supportive team environment for this world-renown sport.