NCR Signs on New Women's Small College Commissioner
NCR Signs on New Women's Small College Commissioner
National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) hires Kelsea Thompson as its new Women’s Small College Commissioner.
Thompson will lead the Competitions Committee for the nearly 100 Small College teams across the country and manage the national playoffs and championship pathways for both the 15s and 7s seasons. In addition, she will manage NCR’s small college national rankings, recognition programs and club development initiatives.
Born in Farmingdale, NY, Thompson is a former Division I track and field athlete who converted to rugby during her sophomore year at SUNY Oneonta, where she played outside center and handled kicking duties. She earned the Heart & Soul award at the 2017 small-college national championship and served as Club President.
“I'm extremely excited to welcome Kelsea to this position," said Angela Smarto, Women’s Director. "She has a great perspective as a former small college player, but also as a sports professional. Her passion to elevate small college women's rugby can be executed through her great skill set; I am ready to get to work with her.”
Following college, Thompson was actively involved in the Arizona rugby community, serving as the Executive Director of Rugby Arizona and attaining her Level 200 Coaching Certification. Thompson served as head coach of Phoenix Women's Rugby in 2020, leading them to an undefeated season.
Holding a Bachelor's degree in Communications with a minor in Athletic Coaching, Thompson worked in sports operations, helping companies and organizations grow within their communities, and as Sports Operations Director at Athletic Edge Sports & Fitness in Washington, NC.
“I am super excited to be the new Women's Small College Commissioner and I am ready to get the ball rolling! I am most excited to help grow the game and give back to an organization I played within as a college athlete," said Thompson. "Rugby changed my life for the better and I am hoping to be a part of it doing the same for others.”
