Men's Rugby Spring Giving Campaign

Your continued support of your generosity provides opportunities for tuition assistance, athlete development, essential equipment, operational costs, and coaching support while aiming to provide our athletes with the training, resources, and opportunities needed to excel both on and off the field.

Established in 1888, the Saint Mary’s Men’s Rugby team is recognized as one of the most elite collegiate rugby teams in the United States. Led by Coach Tim O’Brien, the Gaels have found their way to numerous national championship appearances in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2022, and 2024 with victories in 2014, 2015, 2016 (7s) 2017, and the most recent national championship in 2024. Along with being a team of hard workers, the men’s rugby team is an extremely close-knit group, fostering comradery from our newest players to our oldest returners.

This year the Gaels look to return to the National Championship match in May once again and come away with the title of back-to-back national champions. With the season well underway, the Gaels have put in many hours of hard work, both on the field and in the classroom, to make this goal a reality. So far this season, the Gaels have tallied great wins versus the University of Arizona, BYU, Central Washington University, and most recently Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. As a result, the Gaels hold the #2 playoff spot in the CRAA D1A National Championship playoffs. The Gaels look to continue their success in hopes of another national championship run.

The donations from the Spring Campaign will be put directly into the operations of the program, which supports coaching expenses, tuition assistance, player development, travel, injury care, and equipment. Everything from buses and flights to tape, rugby balls, and practice equipment, every dollar donated in the Spring Campaign goes directly back to helping the success of Men's Rugby on and off the field.

Collegiate Rugby Division 1A National Championship Titles

Your donation is dedicated to supporting the growth and success of Men's Rugby at Saint Mary's College. Thank you!

A Message to Alumni from the Men's Rugby Alumni Board Association:

For all of our historic success, the glory of the past does not pave the road to the future. That road requires your continued commitment to support the over 70 students who are currently wearing the same red and blue striped jersey that you and those who came before you and once wore. It is that legacy that we celebrate the successes of Men's Rugby at Saint Mary's College. Thank you for your support and commitment. Saint Mary's Rugby.... Forever.

"Your commitment supports those students wearing the red and blue stripes as you once did."

- Jerry Murphy '72 , Board Chair

A Note from Coach Tim:

Without the collective strength and contributions of Gael Rugby Nation, we become mere mortals on the college rugby canvas. The Gael Nation, which was sparse and scattered in September 2001 when I began at SMC, is now a united front. This unity and support is something which hs deeply touched my soul. I am grateful for the get fuel you continuously put in my tank. Your financial support has changed many lives, including mine. over the years and I am the program 'ask' has become part of your 'giving DNA' because what's more important than Saint Mary's Rugby Forever!

"Your financial support has changed many lives."

- Coach Tim O'Brien