Blacksburg, Va. – The Virginia Tech men’s rugby program announced today two new scholarships valued at $1,000 each to be awarded for fall 2015.

The scholarships are funded by an endowment managed by the Virginia Tech Foundation.

“In just over two years, the Tech Rugby Alumni Association and parents have contributed more than $40,000, allowing the team to establish the endowment fund, which makes these scholarships possible,” Andrew Richards, chairman of the endowment committee, said. “This sizeable amount is a testament to the spirit of Hokie rugby players as true student-athletes.

“The $1,000 scholarships are intended to help students cover academic incidentals such as books and supplies. As the endowment fund grows, so will its ability to help the team,” Richards added.

This year the team is issuing the Adam Kaufman Leadership Award given to a rising senior who has played all three years and contributed to the team both on and off the field, and the Chris Haycocks Award given to an incoming freshman who has played high school rugby. A five-person selection committee will be assembled to decide the awards. Applications will be available after January 1, 2015.