USA Rugby is proud to announce the election of Julie Uhrman and Tom Kelley to its Board of Directors. Both appointments are key additions to strengthen union leadership as Uhrman and Kelley bring considerable experience in professional sports and organizational governance to USA Rugby.
USA Rugby Board Chair, Tom Cusack said on the new appointments, “We’re thrilled to start a new year with Julie and Tom joining the Board. Their experience in sports management brings valuable insights and skills to USA Rugby. On behalf of the organization, I want to extend a warm welcome to them both as we continue to grow our great game leading up to the 2028 Olympics and Rugby World Cups in 2031 and 2033.”
Julie Uhrman brings more than 30 years of entrepreneurial and executive leadership experience, including as Co-Founder and CEO of Angel City FC, which she built into one of the world’s most valuable women’s professional sports teams. With a background across professional sports, media, and gaming, she offers USA Rugby strategic growth and brand expertise as the LA2028 Olympic Games and home Rugby World Cups approach.
Uhrman said on her appointment with USA Rugby, “I’m excited to join USA Rugby at an important moment for the sport. Rugby’s growth, from the grassroots level to the Olympics and upcoming Rugby World Cups, is inspiring, and I look forward to supporting the continued development and long-term growth of the game across the United States.”
Tom Kelley joins USA Rugby with over 25 years of experience in sports marketing and brand development across athletic footwear and apparel, gaming, retail and media. He has spent major portions of his career at Nike, where he currently serves as Global General Manager of Golf for Jordan Brand. Kelley is excited to help guide USA Rugby marketing and brand awareness during this all-important era. Kelley has also played rugby with Santa Clara University, Santa Monica Rugby Club, Oregon Sports Union and the Tokyo Gaijin.
Kelley said on his addition to the Board of Directors, “This is a pivotal era for USA Rugby and the world is watching. There is an unprecedented opportunity to accelerate the growth of the game on our shores and break through the hyper-competitive sports landscape in America."
As part of a 12-member Board, Uhrman and Kelley will contribute to overarching strategic decisions affecting governance, organizational priorities, and the promotion of rugby domestically and internationally.
In addition to the two new members, the USA Rugby Board will see Koma Gandy-Fischbein remain on the board in an Affiliated Member position. Current members Denis Shanagher and Jamie Burke have also been approved for an additional term as Athlete Representatives.
Tom Cusack: Independent Director, Chair
Steve Argeris: Independent Director, Vice Chair
Tom Kelley: Independent Director
Julie Uhrman: Independent Director
Brett Thompson: Athlete Representative and Team USA Athletics Commission Representative
Victoria Folayan: Athlete Representative and Team USA Athletics Commission Alternate
Jamie Burke: International Athlete Representative
Denis Shanagher: International Athlete Representative
Rick Humm: Senior Club Representative
Paul Keeler: Collegiate Representative
Bill Stevens: Youth & High School Representative
Koma Gandy-Fischbein: Affiliated Member Representative
