Santa Clara, California – September 18, 2023 – The world of collegiate rugby is thrilled to announce the appointment of Josh Sutcliffe as the new Commissioner for Men’s D1AA and D2 Rugby, effective immediately. With an extensive background in rugby and a passion for advancing the sport at the collegiate level, Sutcliffe is poised to bring fresh leadership and vision to these divisions.
As the Commissioner, Sutcliffe will be responsible for overseeing and promoting the growth and development of Men’s D1AA and D2 Rugby, ensuring that both divisions continue to thrive and provide valuable opportunities for student-athletes across the nation.
Sutcliffe’s journey in rugby has been marked by dedication and expertise. His two decades of Rugby leadership experience includes roles as Director of Stanford Rugby, USA Rugby Coach Development Director and California D1AA Conference Commissioner. These experiences have equipped him with the skills and insights needed to lead collegiate rugby effectively.
“I am truly honored to take on this role as Commissioner for Men’s D1AA and D2 Rugby,” said Sutcliffe. “Collegiate rugby has a rich history, and I am committed to building on that legacy by working collaboratively with teams, coaches, players, and administrators to enhance the student-athlete experience and grow the sport.”
Sutcliffe’s vision for the future of Men’s D1AA and D2 Rugby includes building strong working relationships with the Men’s D1AA and D2 conference and improving the visibility of these conferences. His commitment to fostering a competitive, inclusive, and engaging environment aligns perfectly with the values of collegiate rugby.
“We believe that Josh Sutcliffe’s appointment as Commissioner will be a game-changer for Men’s D1AA and D2 Rugby,” said Paul Keeler, President of CRAA. “His passion for the sport and his dedication to its growth make him the ideal leader for these divisions. We look forward to the positive impact he will have on collegiate rugby.”
The College Rugby Association of America (CRAA) is a USA Rugby sanctioned competition that includes premier divisions within Men’s and Women’s Collegiate rugby. The competition includes Men’s D1A, Women’s D1 Elite, Women’s D1 and Women’s D2. CRAA is committed to creating the best possible experience for student athletes, keeping commercial resources in the collegiate game, and creating experiences for our members to engage their academic institutions and alumni.
