Southeast Polk (SEP) Rugby (Altoona, IA) had a break-out year in 2013 when they debuted and won the high school boys division. After a long absence, they returned to the Lakefront 7s this year determined to repeat that initial performance on their 10th anniversary.
SEP were grouped in Pool A with Badger Selects (Pulaski, WI), Warriors (Naperville, IL) and Chargers (Fort Wayne, IN). Giving up just one try in three matches, SEP Rugby won their pool with a 3-0 record. But Badger Selects almost ruined their perfect start in a tight match with SEP scoring the sole try and winning 7-0.
The semi-final was also hotly contested. Pool B runner-up Predator Rugby (St. Charles, IL) pushed SEP all match, but fell just short with a 24-19 scoreline.
On the other side of the playoffs, West End/SYC (Springfield, VA) made the long journey from the East coast to make their Lakefront 7s debut. Also finishing pool play with a 3-0-0 record, they cruised to a 28-10 victory over Badger Selects to advance to the final.
The high school boys championship was one of the most competitive finals this year with strong defense shapes and precise attacks on display. But And in the end, SEP Rugby edged West End/SYC 19-14, an unconverted try being the only separation between the two sides.
Playoffs
Pool play standings
Full match results
