Central Washington Men's Rugby Seeks Head Coach

02.09.2026College Men

Central Washington vs Oregon.

Author: Alex Goff

Central Washington University's men's rugby team is looking to sign a Head Coach.

As readers will remember, last spring CWU Rugby found out that the University would remove varsity support for rugby effective immediately.

While several players (with the help of Next Phase Rugby) transferred, others remained to finish out their studies. That group revitalized the rugby team as a D1AA team in the NCRC conference, and they are competing now with Head Coach Emilio Carranza. In the fall the Wildcats have gone 4-1 so far, 2-1 in-conference.

Carranza is completing his Master's this spring and will be moving on. With a good core group of players and connections with local high school teams, the team has a solid future.

The University Club Sports Department continues to support the Men's Rugby team. The team practices on its dedicated turf field or in the indoor field house.

They also hold morning sessions on the basketball court at the Student Union. CWU Recreation provides some funding and the team's Foundation also supports the rugby efforts.

While Central Washington University looked to save funds by discontinuing varsity rugby, the institution allows the rugby team to use many of its facilities.

The new Head Coach will be paid a stipend, and the future goal is for the coach to be full-time, expand their recruiting efforts, and continue to develop a relationship with the local community.

See below for a specific outline for the coaching position:

Central Washington University Men’s Rugby Head Coach Position

Central Washington University (CWU) Men’s Club Rugby is seeking a Head Coach for the 2026-27 season to lead the program as it continues its re-establishment and long-term growth.

Based in Ellensburg, Washington, CWU Men’s Rugby is a competitive D1AA college club program with a strong rugby tradition and an active leadership group. The program has institutional support through Central Washington University, a committed player core, and strong ties to the Pacific Northwest rugby community.

Position Overview:

10-15 hours per week commitment

3-4 days of active coaching per week

Key Head Coach responsibilities:

Plan, organize, and lead team training session
Prepare the team for competition and oversee match-day operations
Conduct match and training film review
Lead recruiting activities, including identifying, communicating with, and evaluating prospective student-athletes
Establish and drive team standards, culture, and discipline
Coordinate team logistics, including scheduling, travel, and event planning
Engage alumni, supporters, and the local rugby community
Organize and participate in community service and outreach initiatives
Assist in additional duties with student leadership group

This role is well-suited for a coach who is passionate about building culture, coaching players at varying skill levels, and growing a collegiate rugby program.

Compensation:
The position includes a paid coaching stipend, with compensation to be finalized during the hiring and recruiting process.

Application Information:
To apply, send an email to these three individuals:

Emilio Carranza, Current CWU Men’s Rugby Head Coach: emilio.carranza@cwu.edu

Quaid Hunt, CWU Men’s Rugby Club President: quaid.hunt@cwu.edu

Bruce Simpson, CWU Men’s Club Rugby Faculty Advisor: bruce.simpson@cwu.edu

And include a rugby resume including the following:

Relevant coaching and playing experience
Relevant coaching certifications
Recruiting experience
Relevant leadership experience
Relevant fundraising experience
A short statement which outlines who you are, why you are interested in joining CWU Men’s Club Rugby, your approach to player development, and a brief overview of your coaching philosophy.
Willingness to be based in or regularly travel to Ellensburg for team activities

Please include a list of three rugby related references including their positions, your relationship to them, and their contact details.