MESA MAKES DII ALL-STAR RUGBY IN FIRST YEAR

By Patrick Lujan

2025 Father Duenas graduate Hyan Mesa is keeping his eyes on the prize while using rugby to get there.

The first-year cadet at Norwich University in Vermont has already made his mark by being named an all-star for the Division II Norwich Cadets. (Norwich University was founded in 1819 and is recognized as the ‘Birthplace of ROTC’)

A multi-sport athlete at FD playing football, rugby and wrestling while making the National Honor Society, Mesa’s first year playing 15s rugby in college at fullback and flyhalf resulted in some post-season individual recognition.

“Our team finished the regular season with an 8–2 record and placed second in the North Atlantic Collegiate Rugby Conference, which qualified us for the NCR Men’s National Sweet XVs Tournament in Columbus, Ohio,” Mesa said. “At the tournament, we earned a third-place finish in the NCR Midwest Regional bracket, a strong result against high-level competition. Shortly after, I was selected to compete in the NCR Rising Stars program, representing the Northern region. This two-day tournament brings together standout freshman and sophomore athletes from four regions: North, South, East, and West.”

EYE ON THE PRIZE

Championship seasons throughout his high school career at FD, Mesa is used to success. Racking up team titles for the Friars in football, rugby and wrestling, his Class of ’25 went 4-for-4 in all three sports while he was in Tai. Mesa also gained All-Island honors in all three sports.

Hyan has taken that hard work and sacrifice in both athletics and academics to Vermont where he’s not only made the rugby all-star list, but he’s keeping his priorities in line with the books.

“While rugby is a passion of mine, academics remain a top priority. I completed my first semester on the Dean’s List.”

His academic focus is in cybersecurity.

FD PREPARATION

Now on his way to an impactful career, Mesa looks back at his time at the college-preparatory high school.

“What stood out to me most were the high expectations and opportunities at Father Duenas. It taught me discipline, academic focus, and the importance of being a student before an athlete. The faculty and staff guided me in setting clear college goals and preparing for the next level,” Mesa said.

“Being part of a school with a strong winning tradition pushed me to uphold its legacy. This was reflected in my class, the Class of 2025, which won various championships. Being a graduate of Father Duenas helped shaped my work ethic, sense of responsibility, and brotherhood.”

Mesa was home over the Christmas Break “to spend time with family and reset both mentally and physically.”

Prior to going back to Norwich, he trained with the Friars rugby team and other alumni.

“While there, I stayed active by training, continuing to develop my skills during the offseason. I am proud to represent Guam while competing at this level.”