FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: December 20, 2024
Santa Clara, CA — The College Rugby Association of America (CRAA) proudly announces the coaching staff and selection committees for the highly anticipated All-Americans East vs. West Showcase. This annual event brings together the nation’s top collegiate rugby players for a display of skill, competition, and sportsmanship.
East Coaching Staff
The East team will be led by:
- Zac Mizell (Penn State University)
- Blake Bradford (Life University)
East Selections Committee
The players representing the East will be carefully chosen by a distinguished panel:
- Gavin Hickie (Head Coach, US Naval Academy)
- Josh Macy (Head Coach, Lindenwood University)
- Johannes Neethling Gericke (USA Rugby U20s)
West Coaching Staff
The West team will be guided by:
- Harry Bennett (UCLA)
- Andrew Cook (Saint Mary’s College)
West Selections Committee
The West’s roster will be selected by an esteemed group of rugby leaders:
- Tim O’Brien (Head Coach, Saint Mary’s College)
- Paul Keeler (Head Coach, Santa Clara University)
- Scott Lawrence (USA Rugby Men’s National Team General Manager and Head Coach)
Paul Santinelli, CRAA Executive Director stated, “The appointment of coaches and selectors for the CRAA All-Americans East vs. West match is a vital step in ensuring this showcase represents the best of American college rugby. By bringing together a team of highly respected and experienced rugby minds, we aim to provide these players with an elite environment to display their talent and develop their skills. This process not only enhances the competitive integrity of the match but also strengthens the pathways for young athletes aspiring to represent the United States on the global stage.“
A Celebration of Collegiate Rugby Excellence
The All-Americans East vs. West Showcase highlights the depth of talent within collegiate rugby and serves as a key stepping stone for players aspiring to reach the national and international stage. CRAA is committed to fostering the growth of the sport and providing opportunities for athletes to shine.
The match will serve as a prelude to a Major League Rugby event at Anthem RC on May 24. 2025, promising fans a full day of thrilling rugby action. Additional details, including ticketing and kickoff times, will be announced in the coming months.
To help ensure the success of this initiative, independent sponsors and donors will play a crucial role in subsidizing the cost of training assemblies, travel, and lodging for the All-American players. CRAA invites supporters of rugby and the growth of the sport in the United States to join in making this groundbreaking event possible. Those interested in contributing can use Stripe for online contributions: https://bit.ly/3AMYQU0 For more information on sponsorship and donation opportunities, please contact Paul Santinelli (psantinelli@craa.rugby).
For media inquiries or further information, please contact: pkeeler@craa.rugby
About the CRAA:
The College Rugby Association of America (CRAA) is the governing body for elite collegiate rugby programs in the United States. CRAA oversees competition, development, and pathways for athletes aspiring to achieve at the highest levels of the sport. CRAA is dedicated to promoting and growing collegiate rugby across the United States. CRAA supports student-athletes by providing a high level of competition, fostering leadership, and helping players reach their full potential both on and off the field.
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