Central Washington University’s Mae Sagapolu Wins 2023 MA Sorensen Award

Central Washington University’s prop Mae Sagapolu has been named the winner of the 2023 MA Sorensen Award, recognizing her as the top women’s college rugby player in the nation. Sagapolu is the first player from a West Coast school to receive this honor.

Despite coming to Central Washington as a relatively unknown prospect with only a couple of months of rugby experience, Sagapolu quickly established herself as a standout player in the front row as a tighthead prop for the Wildcats. Her talent and potential were immediately evident, and she has since made a significant impact on the game.

Sagapolu had earned three MA Sorensen Award nominations previously. She was named the tour MVP for the USA Under 23s after impressing in camp and starting at No. 8 for the Garnet & Gold Classic last summer.

In XVs, Sagapolu was named a 1st-Team All-American for D1 Elite, showcasing her exceptional combination of running and catch-pass skills, ability in the contact area, and open-field awareness, all of which are rare to find in a tighthead prop.

In addition to her on-field achievements, Sagapolu is a leader and has served as captain of the Wildcats for two years. Her coach, Matt Ramirez, describes her as “a culture builder and culture driver.”

The MA Sorensen Award trophy will be officially presented to Sagapolu at a gala event hosted by the Washington Athletic Club on June 10 in Seattle, Washington.

See all the 2023 MA Sorensen Award Nominees.