Yet another in a list of All-Time Americans who are well-known for something other than their play on the field, longtime Saint Mary's College Head Coach Tim O'Brien was in his day a top-shelf flyhalf.

O'Brien started playing rugby before he had turned 18, which was a rarity for American players in the 1970s. Having gained that experience he continued on at the University of California, helping the team (pictured above) to national titles in 1980 and 1981. He captained Cal and then went on to play in New Zealand and was quickly called up to the USA team.

He He played three games for the USA, against New Zealand, Canada, and Australia, and he also played for the Rugby Club of the Americas and the Pacific Coast Grizzlies, touring Argentina and South Africa with those teams.

He won four national club championships with Old Blues of the Bay Area, and he also played for the USA in 7s.

Coaching drew O'Brien away from playing relatively early in his career, but that doesn't erase the fact that O'Brien was a smart and skilled flyhalf/center who had a keen understanding of the game. A smooth runner and smart distributor, he played well with others and won. He was on some superb teams and was repeatedly looked on as a leader and a captain. And yes, he could play rugby.