Roger Williams University captured the national polo championship Saturday with a thrilling win over Southern Methodist University 14-13.

It is just the second year in existence for the RWU team.

The Hawks advanced to the national final after beating Cornell University Thursday 10-8 in the United States Polo Association Intercollegiate National Championship Tournament. Saturday marked the first time in the 95-year history of the tournament that RWU and SMU are in the Final, competing for the John R. Townsend Men's Intercollegiate Polo Trophy, inaugurated in 1922.

In the semifinal victory, the Hawks were led by George Hempt, who scored five goals, according to a RWU press release. Daymar Rosser added three goals for RWU, while Pedro Cabrera tallied two goals.

Roger Williams never trailed in the match, jumping out to a 2-0 lead and going ahead 3-2 at the end of the first chukka. Cornell stayed within striking distance in the second period, but the Hawks would not give up the lead, taking a 5-4 advantage into the break. Both teams added two goals apiece in the third chukka, allowing RWU to maintain its one goal advantage. In the final frame, RWU outscored Cornell 3-2 to take the 10-8 win and make their way to the title match.