SOUTH EUCLID, Ohio - The Iowa Central rugby team continues to serve notice to the sport that they are here to make a statement.

The Tritons went on the road this past Sunday and claimed a 22-20 victory over Div. IA nationally-ranked Notre Dame College. Iowa Central competes in Div. II.

"Given the level (Notre Dame College) is at year in and year out, and their (Division), this was absolutely huge for our program," ICCC head coach Brent Nelson said. "It was just a very cool moment for our guys. We were even down a few and not a full strength due to both illness and injury, but we preach the 'next man up' philosophy. And we really embraced that."

Rhys Smith was 5-for-5 on penalty kicks for 15 of Iowa Central's 22 points. Jermiah Flowers scored on another try.

"This is a big step forward for us," Nelson said. "It was a remarkable performance."

Nelson added that "Jake (Mizell) and our volunteers really make a difference. We couldn't be more fortunate from the school support to the staff and, of course, our players."

The Tritons head to Kansas City on Saturday to take on Arkansas.