The Seattle Seawolves opened the 2026 Major League Rugby season with a 33–16 win over Old Glory DC at Starfire Stadium. A disciplined finish with 14 players defined the result and set the tone for the season ahead.
The day at Starfire delivered more than just rugby. Under clear skies, the matchday experience centered on community and connection. Curtain raiser matches featured Eastside Lions and Gallatin Wranglers, giving young players the chance to compete on the same pitch.
The club honored Seawolves legend Samu Manoa pre-match. Seattle Sounders legend and entrepreneur Lamar Neagle delivered the match ball. Community Youth Hero Elbourne was also recognized for their impact.
Kids Night extended beyond kickoff. At halftime, families filled the pitch for an egg hunt while Seattle mascots joined in, creating a full stadium experience built for families.
On the pitch, both teams worked through a measured start. It was a slow build on the scoreboard as each side looked to find rhythm in the opening match of the season.
Seattle began to separate through physicality and territory. The Seawolves finished with 494 carry meters to 226 and maintained a clear advantage in possession, creating pressure that shifted momentum.
Ezekiel Lindenmuth opened the scoring early to give Seattle momentum. Old Glory responded to keep the contest tight, and the match remained balanced through the middle phases.
The turning point came late. After being reduced to 14 players following a red card, Seattle raised its level. The Seawolves closed the match with a dominant final stretch, scoring two tries while down a player and holding Old Glory scoreless in the final 20 minutes.
JP Smith sealed the result with a late try, highlighting his versatility as he and fellow scrumhalf Nick Boyer both featured on the wing in a reshaped backline.
Newcomer Davy Coetzer earned Broadcast Man of the Match. He led all scorers with 17 points, adding three conversions and four penalty kicks. He also contributed 64 meters, six kicks in play, and three turnovers, controlling the tempo throughout.
The performance showed early signs of depth and adaptability as the squad continues to build combinations and identity.
Seattle Seawolves:
1 Ezekiel Lindenmuth, 2 Sean McNulty, 3 Ignacio Péculo, 4 Rhyno Herbst, 5 Harison Mataele, 6 Marno Redelinghuys, 7 Paddy Ryan, 8 Riekert Hattingh (C), 9 André Warner, 10 Davy Coetzer, 11 JP Smith, 12 Nolan Tuamoheloa, 13 Mark Bennett, 14 Duncan Matthews, 15 Divan Rossouw.
Replacements:
16 Liki Chan-Tung, 17 Dewald Donald, 18 Mason Pedersen, 19 LaRome White, 20 Kalisi Moli, 21 Tiai Vavao, 22 Nick Boyer, 23 Dorian Jones.
Next up, Seattle travels to face Anthem RC on Sunday, April 12 at 1:00 PM PT. Fans can join the official viewing party at Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub, featuring non-roster Seawolves players and a full matchday atmosphere.