CHAMPAIGN, Ill.- The McKendree University men's rugby team traveled to the University of Illinois to play against the Fighting Illini squad in their first intercollegiate competition of the 2023 season. The Illini won out 41-14 over the Bearcats. However, the Bearcats fought valiantly with two tries by Elijah Wheaton and Dominic Watson. Ethan Edwards was also able to complete two conversions for the Bearcats squad. 

The Bearcats return to play at home on Saturday October 7th against Lindenwood University.