A pair of Kentucky teams are playing for national titles, who are they playing next?

As the calendar turns to December, Kentucky sports fans don't have a bowl game to look forward to, but fans still have plenty to cheer for beyond the basketball court. Both Kentucky women’s volleyball and the men's rugby team are making headlines in their respective national tournaments, showcasing the athletic excellence that continues to define the Wildcats athletic department.

Kentucky Rugby: Back-to-Back in Their Sights

On December 14, Kentucky’s rugby team will face Bowling Green in the National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) Finals at SaberCats Stadium in Houston, Texas. The Wildcats, defending champions, stormed into the final with a commanding 39-22 victory over UMASS, demonstrating their offensive firepower as they remain undefeated heading to Houston. Bowling Green, on the other hand, edged past Virginia Tech in a nail-biter, 20-18, to set up this highly anticipated clash for the title

Kentucky’s bid for a second consecutive national title reflects the program's growing prominence. The team's synergy and determination have carried them through tough competition all season, and their supporters will be eager to see them cement their legacy as a national powerhouse.

Volleyball Wildcats: Sweet 16 Showdown

Not to be outdone, Kentucky’s women’s volleyball team continues their impressive campaign in the NCAA Tournament. The Wildcats, a 3-seed, advanced to the Sweet 16 after sweeping Cleveland State and defeating 6-seed Minnesota in a hard-fought 3-1 match in the Lexington pod of the NCAA tournament.

Next up, they face SEC rival Missouri, a 7-seed fresh off a stunning 3-1 upset of 2-seed SMU. Having already beaten Missouri twice this season, the Wildcats know the challenge of defeating a determined opponent three times in one year. Their October 6 sweep and November 27 victory, which clinched their eighth consecutive SEC title will have Mizzou looking for revenge as Kentucky looks to get back to another Elite 8 with a win.

A December to Remember

With both teams on the national stage, Wildcat fans have every reason to be excited. The rugby squad’s pursuit of consecutive championships and the volleyball team’s quest for another deep tournament run highlight the depth and diversity of talent across Kentucky athletics.