The Deacon's Duel Is Back — And It's Bigger Than Ever

February 14, 2026 | Poteat Field | Winston-Salem, NC

It's that time of year again. The third annual Deacon's Duel 7s Tournament is here, and this one is shaping up to be the best yet.

On Valentine's Day, Poteat Field is going to be packed with some of the most competitive collegiate rugby programs on the East Coast — all battling it out in a full day of fast, physical 7s rugby. Forget the chocolates. This is how we celebrate.

The Field Is Loaded

This year's tournament features two stacked divisions. The Elite Division brings together powerhouses like Kentucky, Clemson, Queens, and Virginia Tech, while the Development Division is loaded with hungry programs looking to make a statement — Duke, App State, USC, Emory & Henry, UNC Charlotte, Elon, and more. Sixteen teams. Two divisions. One field. It's going to be electric.

What to Expect

If you've been to a Deacon's Duel before, you know. If you haven't — you're in for a treat. 7s rugby is the fastest, most exciting format in the sport. Every try matters, every tackle counts, and momentum can flip in an instant. The atmosphere at Poteat Field is unlike anything else on campus, and this year's field of teams is going to bring the intensity from the first whistle to the last.

Year Three and Growing

When we started Deacon's Duel, the goal was simple: build something special around 7s rugby in Winston-Salem. Two years later, teams are traveling from across the region to be part of it. The tournament has grown every single year, and the level of play keeps rising with it. That's a testament to every team, coach, and supporter who has bought into what we're building.

Come Out and Watch

Whether you're a rugby diehard or just looking for something to do on a Friday — wait, Saturday — wait, it's Valentine's Day on a Saturday and we're playing rugby. Look, just come out. Spectators are welcome, admission is free, and you can bring your own chairs and blankets to set up along the sidelines. Trust us, once you see a 7s match live, you'll be hooked.

The Details

• Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026

• Location: Poteat Field — 1865 Wake Forest Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27109

• Kickoff: Morning. Be there early.

• Admission: Free for spectators

Let's Go

Three years in and the Deacon's Duel keeps getting better. The teams are ready, the fields are set, and Winston-Salem is about to see some serious rugby. We can't wait.

See you on the pitch.

Offical Deacons Duel Website

— Wake Forest University Rugby