Some big changes are afoot for the rugby program at Clemson.

Clemson Rugby is close to completing construction on the first phase of the team's very own rugby complex. The project has been made possible by a lead sponsoring gift from the Clemson Rugby alumnus-owned business, National Athletic Village, located in Pinehurst, NC, and with additional support from Clemson Rugby alumni.

The project is well underway and players will be able to use it this fall. The planning, development and construction Clemson Rugby Complex at the Pier was made possible by our valued partnership with another Clemson alumnus and local real estate developer, Tom Winkopp.

In addition, Clemson Rugby now has new administrative oversight. The University, after studying what the rugby program does and how it operates, has moved administration of the rugby team from Rec Sports to the Athletic Department. Clemson Rugby will not be a varsity sport, but will be administered under the Athletic Department.

This means that the rugby program has access to a variety of facilities and services the Athletic Department provides. Details are to be worked out over time, but this is clearly a big step forward for Clemson Rugby.

Joining Clemson in developing its rugby program is Tiger Rugby. The USA Rugby-sanction Development Academy which has developed several Eagles in its centers in Southern California, Ohio, and North Carolina, is now working directly with the rugby program at Clemson.

“We are very excited to partner with Clemson Rugby in their mission of building a dominant program. This is a multi-year commitment that will soon be paying handsome dividends, and promises to attract some of the best talent from around the country,” said James Walker, the founder and Director of Tiger Rugby. “We look forward to many future Eagles and Rugby Olympians coming through Clemson University within this next four year cycle.”