ATLANTA - National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) has officially announced the recipients of the 2025 Men's Player of the Year Awards. This was the first season that this award was handed out, and Franciscan had a player earn this national honor.
Joseph Moleski (So. Carrollton, Texas / St. Martin's Academy) was named Division III Player of the Year.
The scrumhalf was a key component to the Franciscan offense due to his elite attacking ability and ability to exploit lapse in defense. As a scrumhalf, his elite passing from scrums and rucks, along with a booming kick, were factors in Franciscan's first-ever national championship run in 2025. In addition to his offensive capabilities, he's big in defense. Jo Bob tallied 82 tackles and five turnovers – an unusual feat for the position.
A national panel of rugby administrators, competition officials, and collegiate coaches identified the honorees after reviewing more than 10,000 players from 332 teams. Honorees represent the highest level of achievement in performance, leadership, and impact across NCR's four competitive divisions.
"These young men embody what collegiate rugby stands for," said Brad Dufek, NCR's Director of Men's Rugby. "These players consistently delivered in big moments, raised the standard within their programs, and demonstrated the competitiveness and character that define this level of the game. We're proud to recognize their accomplishments on a national stage."
Moleski received this honor in person, as he competed in Atlanta for the East Rising Stars team in part of All-Stars weekend. Here are a few words from him on receiving this honor.
NCR All-America Team should be announced in the coming weeks, as the Barons hope to land multiple All-Americans for the first time since they had three players honored after the 2019 fall season. Vincent Prezzia is the last Baron to earn All-American honors, which was from the 2023 season.
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