LAFAYETTE, CO - USA Rugby Board of Directors Chairman, Will Chang, today announced his intention to retire from USA Rugby after the Rugby World Cup Sevens 2018. Chang joined the Board of Directors in 2012 and was influential in earning the bid for the World Rugby event.
Chang's remarks after announcing his stepping away: "I lead the USA Rugby Bid Committee to bring the Rugby World Cup Sevens to the United States for the first time and I am committed to delivering a fantastic experience for rugby fans from around the world, in my home town and stadium.'
"I see similarities to when the US hosted the FIFA World Cup here in 1994. That event was the catalyst for the growth of soccer in this country. Similarly, the Rugby World Cup Sevens is the epitome of opportunity this country has to propel the sport of rugby for explosive growth.'
Chang began his rugby career at the age of 14 during his schooling at Millfield School in Somerset, England. His playing career continued during his studies at Harvard, where he played wing-forward. Upon graduation, he moved onto club rugby with the Palo Alto Rugby Club in California.
"Will Chang has been involved at a high level with many sports, but his first love is rugby,' said World Rugby Executive Committee Member, Bob Latham, "It will be a fitting conclusion to his time on the USA Rugby Board of Directors if, of all the moments he has experienced at AT&T Park, the Rugby World Cup Sevens in July is the most memorable. I encourage the USA Rugby community to come together to make that happen.'
"I believe I can contribute more to the growth of rugby by being a provider of capital and lending my sport business acumen, than being part of the national governing board.' continued Chang. "I have invested in many professional sports teams both here and abroad, and have investments in various sports properties and produced feature films in sports. I have had many opportunities to invest in various rugby related businesses but due to my fiduciary obligation to USA Rugby, it was my responsibility to pass on those endeavors. By leaving the USA Rugby Board, I will be free to pursue those rugby related business opportunities and support this game in a new capacity.'
Chang concluded, "Despite my stepping away, I care deeply about the wellbeing of USA Rugby and I will be available to help in anyway when called upon.'
