The standard of collegiate rugby in America continues to improve, as more and more universities are adopting full-time, varsity programs. 

While 2019 brought us some outstanding rugby all year in both the men's and women's game, there were two teams that rose above the pack and affirmed themselves as the cream of the crop. 

Here are our picks for the best men's and women's collegiate team of 2019:

Men's Collegiate Team of the Year: Life University

Playing in their seventh consecutive national championship game, the Running Eagles outlasted Cal in a classic match to secure their fourth D1A title, pushing them one ahead of St. Mary's for the all-time lead.

If 2018 was a year of dominance for Life (beating Cal 60-5 in the championship), 2019 was all about heart and grit. 

Despite playing in a number of close games, they managed to go undefeated for a second straight year, extending their win streak to 29 games, and putting their stamp on collegiate rugby. 

They nearly pulled off the double by winning the D1A title and the CRC title, but they were upended in the CRC final by the juggernaut that is Lindenwood 7s. 

Expect more big things from the Running Eagles in 2020, as they attempt to become the first team to three-peat in D1A rugby.

Women's Collegiate Team of the Year: Lindenwood University

At this stage, we can officially deem the Lions a dynasty.

They have won the last two 15's national championships, the last three USA Rugby 7s championships, and the past two CRC 7s championships. 

In 2019, they pulled off their second consecutive Triple Crown (winning 15s national championship, USAR 7s Championship, and CRC 7s Championship) and they hardly had a close game along the way. 

They are producing player after player that goes on to compete at the WPL and the International level, but it's the teamwork and understanding of the game that's setting them apart from everyone else. 

They've lifted the bar for women's collegiate rugby, and could likely go all the way in the WPL if they were able and willing to compete.