US Rugby Foundation and USA Rugby present a partnership with the USA Rugby Eagle Alumni Association, a collective group of former USA Eagle Rugby players, that focuses on re-engaging former USA Rugby National Team players.
The primary goal of this partnership is to bolster previous USA Eagles players to support and impact the growth of rugby in the United States.
- Build a USA Eagle community that has lifelong engagement and connectivity
- Aid the current USA National Teams and pathway programs
- Provide player transition opportunities in their post-playing careers
- Create an environment for meaningful player engagement
- Create more organic opportunities for some of the game's most influential ambassadors to connect, network, socialize, and support larger initiatives
Shalom Suniula, Eagle #451, said, “If not now, when? With the U.S. hosting both the Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups in 2031 and 2033, we need to begin now to build a network for our Eagles and create a community that very few people have had the opportunity to be a part of.”
To support this effort further, the Eagle Alumni Association has created a new registration page and website allowing former National Team players and staff to update their contact information and provide their individual history and accomplishments. This website initiative celebrates the history of the organization and its athletes. The site will also host future networking opportunities for Eagle Alumni and benefits for these Alumni through various business and educational partners.
Brain Vizard, Former Eagles Captain and Eagle #159 said, “It’s an honor to support this initiative as a former player but also as the US Rugby Foundation President. Our alumni can make a difference at the next Rugby World Cup and it’s important that we work together to make an impact on the future of our game.”
Kasey McCravey, USA Women's Eagles Sevens 2018-2021, said, “We want to build something that Eagle Alumni are proud to be a part of and future Eagle Alumni are excited to be adopted into once their playing careers are over. There is so much life to be lived after your rugby playing career, but the Alumni Association wants to help maintain a connection to the sport and the community you built along the way.”
Former USA Eagles and staff are now encouraged to take the time to complete the profile form and join this exciting initiative at usrugbyfoundation.org/eaglealumni. If you have any questions, please contact eaglealumni@usa.rugby.
The next alumni gathering event will be the 2023 US Rugby Hall of Fame Inductee Ceremony on Saturday, September 16 in Salt Lake City, ahead of the Men’s Eagles match against French club Stade Toulousain. Reserve your seat at www.usrugbyfoundation.org/hall-of-fame. Tickets to Sunday’s match are now available at usa.rugby/tickets.
The US Rugby Foundation, a non-profit organization, has for six decades supported the growth and development of youth rugby in the United States. The Foundation accomplishes this by funding and promoting grassroots programs, college scholarships, coach and referee development, and health and safety. To show support or learn more visit usrugbyfoundation.org.
