GLENDALE, Colo. (USA Rugby Press Release)– Continuing to build structure and foundation for the USA Rugby National Teams and High Performance Pathways, USA Rugby today announced the appointment of Brandon Sparks as Head of Women’s High Performance, a role responsible for oversight and development of the Women’s XVs and Sevens programs.
From the Women’s Senior National Teams to Junior National Teams and player pathway talent identification, the addition of Sparks brings increased expertise and resources to an ongoing development plan for women’s rugby in the United States. With long-term goals expected to enrich the Eagles platform alongside collegiate and women’s professional rugby, Sparks and the renewed USA Rugby High Performance department look forward to positive progress as the LA2028 Olympics and Rugby World Cup 2033 shine bright ahead.
“I’m excited to work with the entire American rugby community to develop and build programs that will create momentum as we approach the Olympics and Rugby World Cups," said Sparks. "Rugby, especially women's rugby, can be a staple in our country’s sporting culture and I’m excited to be in a position to work with great people to accomplish that.”
Serving in rugby across all levels of the game, Sparks comes to USA Rugby having spent the last four years as General Manager of the Utah Warriors in Major League Rugby. With experience in coaching and administrative roles, Brandon has held leadership positions for multiple programs including the Legacy Rugby Academy, University of Michigan, and Berkeley All-Blues of the Women’s Premier League.
With the Warriors, Sparks led the club to an MLR leader in minutes played by domestic players in 2023, alongside eight pathway players called up to USA National and Junior National Team camps and 11 players promoted from the pathway to active MLR rosters. Sparks’ success in player development and organized pathways will help scale the rise of talent through USA Women’s High Performance. Sparks added on first priorities and goals going forward.
