Lyle represents USD at USA Rugby U23 Nationals

CLEARWATER, MN — The Central South Mustangs wrapped up a highly competitive weekend at the 2026 USA Rugby Women’s U23 National All-Star Championship, held June 19 and 21 at Eldorado Park. Facing off against premier rising talent from across the country, the Mustangs utilized the elite tournament as a vital proving ground for regional growth and player development.

Composed of a dynamic select roster spanning from the Midwest to the Deep South, the Mustangs faced a grueling schedule against the nation's top regional powerhouse sides. While the team finished the weekend with an 0-5 record to place seventh overall, the tournament marked a massive step forward for the squad's cohesion, tactical execution, and regional representation.

Coyote Leadership On and Off the Pitch

Anchoring the roster’s grit and physical style of play was Larissa Lyle, club president and standout player for the University of South Dakota (USD) Women's Rugby Club. Lyle’s selection to the elite regional squad highlights the rapid rise of the USD "Yotes" program, a highly competitive team in the Prairie States Women's Collegiate Rugby Conference.

Guiding the Mustangs from the sidelines was assistant coach Mikayla Schroeder (B.S. Ed. '24). As a former USD player and past club president, Schroeder brought a wealth of personal program knowledge and regional expertise to the coaching staff. Her transition from leading the Yotes on the field during her playing career to mentoring the next generation of select athletes provided invaluable continuity for the Central South squad as they navigated a steep learning curve in real time.

Despite the tough outcomes on the scoreboard, the Mustangs showed immense resilience under Schroeder's guidance, adjusting their structural play and improving their phase-play chemistry with every consecutive match.

Elevating Rugby in the Prairie States

The true victory for the Central South program lies in the long-term impact on its collegiate affiliates. Players like Lyle are returning to their respective campus teams equipped with advanced technical skills, high-level tactical training, and a deeper understanding of the high-performance pathway.

By showcasing the caliber of players and coaching talent coming out of programs like the University of South Dakota, the Mustangs successfully put the rugby community on notice that the Prairie States are working to become a major force in the collegiate landscape.