May 20- While the 55th season of rugby on campus has concluded, three Wildcats remain in the headlines with the recent announcement of this year's All Americans. Arizona has had three named in this year's team headlined by EJ Freeman who earns 1st team All American for the second straight year.

​

Freeman, a center from Frankfurt, Germany, concludes a standout career in Tucson with his third selection after earning the honor in both Fifteens and Sevens last year. The senior was also a nominee for the Rudy Scholz award, annually given to the most outstanding athlete in College Rugby. "An amazing feeling. Being selected taught me that if you focus on the things you can control, things can work out" said Freeman. 
 

Freeman was one of two backs selected as Wing Jacob Broselle lands in the 2nd XV All American side. The senior from Ferndale, Washington was a Sevens All American last year, traveling to Fiji with the USA. The dynamic outside back wraps up a career where he served as vice captain and helped the Wildcats score over 40 points per game in the 2023-2024 season. "I am honored" said Broselle. "I have had sevens success, so it is nice to also earn the honor in Fifteens. For future Wildcats my advice is to be confident in yourself work hard, and good things will happen."

​

Up front one of the Wildcats' most impactful players has caught the interest of college and professional coaches alike as Abe Turpen earns 2nd XV All American at openside flanker. The senior from Boise, Idaho emerged as one of the best back rowers in the country this past season, anchoring a much-improved team defense while working over the ball to create plenty of attacking opportunities. "It's a very satisfying feeling. In all of my career I have never been in any USA side, so to finally be listed as a collegiate all american comes with a great deal of pride" said Turpen. Drafted by the Utah Warriors in the 2023 Major League Rugby Draft, Turpen will now be heading to New Orleans to join the NOLA Gold after a recent trade.

​

The three selections marks the most for the program in recent years, a great honor for these seniors and a sign of things to come. "I'm incredibly proud of each of these three as well as our other seniors who have done exactly what you want, continue to annually raise the bar. EJ and Jake were strong last year, and both were even better this year. I think Abe was very motivated after a good year last year, and he came back and through his work and his leadership took that next step. I think all three have the ability to play next level and I am joined by the entire Wildcat family in supporting these three as they go on to the next step" said Director of Rugby Sean Duffy. 

​

Arizona wrapped up a special season in year 55, increasing their overall match count and capping off the regular season with a win over 2022 national champions Army on Sitton Field. The Wildcats bring a large group of returners back to the team next year along with a large diverse recruiting class from around the world.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​