Arizona rugby snags game-changing $1M gift

“We’ve introduced rugby scholarships and built a private training center inside the South Rec,” said Sean Duffy, director of UA rugby. “These are game-changers for a non-varsity program.”

For those unfamiliar, rugby is similar to a combination of soccer and football, played with an oval-shaped ball. Rugby involves two teams of 15 players who aim to score points by carrying or kicking the ball into the opponent’s try zone.

Despite not yet achieving varsity status, the program’s recent accomplishments highlight its promise. Over the past five seasons, they have consistently ranked within the top 15. Last season, the team achieved a national ranking of 13th and progressed to the first round of the national tournament.

“We used to play in the Pac-12 conference, but given that it was broken up this past year — we are now independent,” team president Mattox King said. “We play teams from across the country. This includes Cal, UCLA, Army, Saint Mary’s and Central Washington University teams.”

The Arizona rugby program has embraced a rigorous schedule, intentionally competing against higher-caliber teams to foster growth and meet its goal of playing at the top level. This season, its opponents include nearly all of the top-10 teams in the nation, reflecting its drive to challenge itself.

The team’s efforts are paying off, with a strong 6-1 record, including signature wins over ASU, San Diego, Colorado State and New Mexico.

“A few of our players hold scholarships, probably around 12-15,” King said. “These scholarships are entirely need-based and are awarded to both domestic and international players, but more commonly for global players.”

The scholarships are funded by alumni.

With a roster of 70 athletes, the program can field two competitive squads year-round. Moreover, the team has expanded its recruiting efforts internationally, successfully attracting talent from countries like Japan and Australia.

These advancements are remarkable for a club sport, especially one that operates without full varsity support, showcasing the team’s commitment to excellence and growth.

“What’s unique about us is we’re one of the few non-varsity programs able to operate at this level,” Duffy said. “We want rugby to be viewed as a legitimate sport on campus, recruiting internationally, competing for national championships and graduating 100% of our athletes.”

Though the primary season occurs in the spring, Arizona rugby’s fall season laid a strong foundation.

“The team performed well this fall,” Assistant Captain Matteo Berenger said. “It was great to get more rugby in and prepare ourselves for the spring. This last game was tough but gave us plenty to work on.”

Berenger also highlighted the importance of fostering a strong team culture.

“Getting to know the incoming freshman class and building our culture early has been the most memorable part of the season,” he said.

Berenger credits much of the team’s success to the dedication of its players, particularly emerging talents like forwards Tanner DeMassa and Saxon Gerstl.

“These guys have been standing out and improving daily,” he said.

King echoed this sentiment, noting how the recruiting efforts and the support of an extensive alumni network have been instrumental.

“We bring in high-level players from the U.S. and abroad and our alumni’s generosity — like the $1 million gift — has been a game-changer,” he said.

One of the program’s ongoing goals is to expand its reach and fanbase. Duffy noted the importance of getting the word out about games at Sitton Field, which are free for students and staff.

“The fans are great. It makes a huge difference when the stands are packed and loud,” Berenger added.

As the team gears up for its primary season, Berenger and Duffy remain focused on achieving a balance between preparation and performance.

“We have a good balance here,” Berenger said. “We just need to fine-tune it to find that perfect spot.”

“These are true student-athletes, dedicating six days a week to training, games and academics,” Duffy said. “We’ve graduated 99% of our student-athletes, which we’re incredibly proud of.”

Arizona takes on Saint Mary’s on Jan. 18 at 2 p.m. at William David Sitton Field, adjacent to the UA Campus Recreation Center.