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The Zephyrs, who were in DIII last season, replace the Diablo Gaels who have dropped to DII.
This marks the first time since its inception in 1979 that the Reno club has competed in D1. The Zephyrs see it as a great opportunity for their players to compete with some of the top clubs in the USA.
"We all know that it’s going to be a tough season ahead of us, but I believe that with the talents of the players that we have right now we'll do just fine in Division I," Zephyrs assistant coach Maka Pateta told ARN.
“In 2005, after we were runners up to Clinton Muddy River in Division III the previous year, the club started to deteriorate and we even have a lady play prop for the team.
“In 2006 we started to build up again with a long term goal to be in Division I by 2010, however, that goal comes a year early and we all treasure this moment.”
The Zephyrs have a tough schedule to start their DI campaign. First up they’re due to face 2008 Division I national semifinalist Olympic Club at home in Reno on January 17, and then follow that two weeks later with 2007 national champions Hayward.
The Zephyrs say they are looking forward to a very tough, yet exciting 2009 season.
