The Brevard Old Red Eye Rugby Club secured its third consecutive Florida Rugby Union D3 Championship with a decisive 52-24 victory over the previously undefeated Palm Beach Panthers on Saturday, April 11, at Turner Park in Sarasota. The win marked a continuation of the team’s dominance in the division, with fans traveling from across the region to support the squad, while others watched the match via live stream globally. The Red Eyes’ triumph came in front of a crowd that included longtime supporters who remembered the team’s earlier losses to the Panthers in state finals from 2018 to 2020. Those defeats, which preceded the Panthers’ eventual national title run, added extra weight to this year’s victory.
The match, which saw the Red Eyes outscore the Panthers by nearly 30 points, was described by attendees as a display of precision and power. The team’s coach, John Martinez, said the win was a culmination of years of effort. 'We’ve had a long road, especially with those old rivalries,' Martinez said. 'This one means a lot to the guys who’ve been through the heartbreak before.' The Red Eyes’ history with the Panthers dates back to 2018, when the Panthers edged them in a penalty-extended play before going on to win the national title. The Red Eyes lost to the Panthers again in 2019 and 2020 before finally breaking the streak this year.
The victory also highlights the team’s progression through the ranks. After losing to the Panthers in the 2020 championship, the Red Eyes moved up to Division 2 in 2021, where they have since competed. The team’s success in D3, however, has set a foundation for future growth. 'This win shows we’re not just here to compete—we’re here to dominate,' said player Jordan Lee. 'But we’re also focused on moving up to D2 and proving we belong there.'
The match drew praise from local sports enthusiasts, with many noting the Red Eyes’ ability to maintain consistency despite challenges. The team’s next challenge comes in the form of a regional tournament in May, where they will face teams from across Florida. For now, the Red Eyes are savoring their third straight title and the sweet taste of finally overcoming a longtime rival.