Kort Schubert
2025
Inductee
Kort Schubert's rugby journey began at Jesuit High School in Sacramento, California, where he played from 1996-1997 after already establishing himself as a standout football player. Born July 24, 1979, Schubert quickly demonstrated the athletic ability and rugby intelligence that would define his career.
Schubert's international career began remarkably early when he was selected for the USA U-19 team that toured New Zealand in 1998. His senior Eagles debut came on June 3, 2000, against Japan in the Pacific Rim Championship, when he was just 20 years old. Before the year was out, he had already played all three backrow positions at the international level, a rare versatility that made him an invaluable asset.
Over his eight-year international career (2000-2008), Schubert earned 49 caps and played in 50 matches for the USA Eagles. He was named team captain in 2004 and led the team for 17 consecutive matches, the second-longest streak in Eagles history. Under his leadership, the USA reached its highest world ranking of the era at 14th.
A highlight of Schubert's international career was his participation in the 2003 Rugby World Cup in Australia, where he scored three tries against Fiji, Japan, and France, making him the leading American try scorer in the tournament. His Eagles career included facing 25 different test opponents and playing alongside 24 different Eagles backrowers, demonstrating both his longevity and adaptability.
Schubert was a trailblazer for American rugby professionals, moving directly from collegiate rugby to professional contracts in the UK. He played for Northampton Saints in 2003-2004 and Cardiff Blues from 2004-2006, competing in the prestigious Premiership and Celtic League (now United Rugby Championship). His success overseas opened doors for future American players to pursue professional opportunities abroad.
At the club level, Schubert also played for the Olympic Club in San Francisco (2002-2012), helping them reach the USA Rugby Division 1 Club National Championship finals in 2011.
Following his playing career, Schubert turned to coaching. He served as an assistant coach at his alma mater, UC Berkeley, from 2004-2007, helping them win multiple national championships. Since 2015, he has coached with the Danville Oaks youth program in California, serving as head coach since 2023 and helping develop the next generation of American rugby talent, including future Eagle Dom Besag.
Throughout his career, Schubert was known for his work ethic, physical play, and rugby intelligence. Despite knee problems affecting him in his later playing years, his durability was remarkable, including a streak of 42 consecutive international matches that is believed to be an American record.
In 2021, Schubert's contributions to rugby were recognized with his induction into the California Athletics Hall of Fame. His legacy includes not only his outstanding playing career but also his role in elevating the standard of American rugby and creating pathways for future players to succeed at both the collegiate and international levels.