The US Rugby Foundation has announced the creation of a new rugby scholarship, this one at the University of Texas at Austin.
Applications for the first-ever Andrew S. McPherson University of Texas at Austin Scholarship are now officially open to current Longhorn rugby players.
This landmark scholarship program, established in late 2025, is designed to support the long-term growth, recruitment, and competitive excellence of the University of Texas at Austin Men’s Rugby Club.
This scholarship honors the legacy of Andrew S. McPherson, a cornerstone of the program’s history. Andrew served as the starting Lock for the 1984-1985 squad—the first all-student team at the University—and continued his role the following year as a founding member of the university's officially sanctioned inaugural club.
Although his time on the pitch was brief, the values of the game and the enduring bonds he formed left a profound impact on his life, inspiring this commitment to the next generation of Texas Rugby.
Funded by dedicated alumni and facilitated by the US Rugby Foundation, the program provides an annual award of $3,500 to a student-athlete who embodies the balance of academic rigor, leadership, and athletic commitment.
Kickoff Application Cycle
To make an immediate impact for the 2026–2027 academic year, the US Rugby Foundation and University of Texas are launching an exclusive "Initial Kickoff" application period. While the scholarship will eventually follow a standard fall cycle, this inaugural window allows current Longhorns to apply early:
Application Period: January 1, 2026 – May 31, 2026
Recipient Announcement: June 2026
Award Amount: $3,500
