A new documentary, Brothers on Three, offers an intimate look at the United States Military Academy's rugby team, blending triumph with profound loss. Directed by Sean Mullin, a West Point graduate and former rugby player, the film follows the Black Knights during the 2022-23 season as they defend their national title.
The documentary opens with scenes of victory in Houston, Texas, in 2022, when Army beat St Mary's to claim their first US college championship. However, the narrative quickly shifts to the challenges of the following season, including a defeat by rivals Navy and the team's eventual loss of the national crown. Captain Larry Williams, the 2022 US player of the year, reflects on leadership: 'I realized that being a good leader isn't about how much you win, it's how you handle loss.'
Mullin captures raw moments, such as Williams struggling to address his teammates after a heavy defeat at Lindenwood, and flanker Conor Fay playing with a bloodied ear. The film also explores the broader context of West Point life, including branch night, when fourth-year students learn their future military assignments.
Beyond the pitch, the documentary honours fallen soldiers. It features footage of Ian Weikel, a 1997 West Point graduate killed in Iraq in 2006. His widow, Wendy Green, recalls her introduction to rugby: 'I was like, “What is rugby?” ... He looked like this adorable puppy covered head to toe with mud and dirt. I was just smitten.'
Twenty-one Army rugby players have died in service. Mullin's film weaves their stories into a narrative about brotherhood, resilience, and the cost of duty.
