The Utah Valley University (UVU) rugby team has been making waves in the collegiate rugby scene, and it's exciting to learn more about this dynamic program. In this article, we'll delve into the history, successes, and what makes UVU rugby stand out.
History of UVU Rugby
Utah Valley University's rugby program was established in 1998, with the team competing in the Pacific Western Rugby Conference (PWRC) of the USA Rugby Collegiate Division II. Over the years, the program has grown and evolved, with the team moving to the Division I-A West Conference in 2012. This move marked a significant milestone in the program's history, as it allowed UVU to compete against top-tier teams and challenge themselves at the highest level.
Successes and Achievements
UVU rugby has experienced its fair share of successes over the years. In 2015, the team won the Division I-A West Conference championship, defeating the University of Utah in the final. This victory marked the program's first conference title and showcased the team's potential on the national stage.
In addition to conference championships, UVU rugby has also had success in national tournaments. In 2017, the team finished third at the USA Rugby Collegiate National Championship, narrowly missing out on a spot in the final. This achievement demonstrated the program's ability to compete with the best teams in the country.
Coaching Staff and Support
The UVU rugby coaching staff is led by Head Coach, Dr. Jared Fry. Fry, a former UVU rugby player himself, has been instrumental in shaping the program into what it is today. He is supported by a team of experienced coaches, including Assistant Coaches, Steve England and Bryce Gillberg.
The team also benefits from the expertise of strength and conditioning coaches, who help the players develop their physical skills and prepare for the demands of the sport.
Facilities and Resources
UVU rugby has access to top-notch facilities, including the state-of-the-art Wolverine Field, which serves as the team's home ground. The field features a high-quality turf surface, perfect for rugby, and is equipped with modern amenities, such as floodlights and a sound system.
In addition to the field, the team also has access to the UVU athletic department's strength and conditioning facilities, which provide the players with the resources they need to develop their strength, speed, and agility.
Academic Support
UVU rugby is committed to supporting its players' academic pursuits. The team works closely with the university's academic support services to ensure that players have the resources they need to succeed in the classroom. This includes access to tutors, academic advisors, and study hall sessions.
Recruitment and Tryouts
UVU rugby is always on the lookout for talented players to join its ranks. The team holds annual tryouts, which are open to any interested players. These tryouts provide an opportunity for players to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot on the team.
Gallery of UVU Rugby
FAQs
What division does UVU rugby compete in?
+UVU rugby competes in the Division I-A West Conference of the USA Rugby Collegiate Division I-A.
How can I try out for the UVU rugby team?
+The UVU rugby team holds annual tryouts, which are open to any interested players. Contact the coaching staff for more information.
What kind of academic support does UVU rugby offer?
+UVU rugby works closely with the university's academic support services to provide players with the resources they need to succeed in the classroom.
Conclusion
Utah Valley University's rugby program is a force to be reckoned with in the collegiate rugby world. With a rich history, talented players, and dedicated coaching staff, the team is well-equipped to succeed at the highest level. Whether you're a current player, prospective recruit, or simply a fan of the sport, UVU rugby is definitely worth keeping an eye on.