2021-22 Kaler Family Rugby Scholarship Recipient: Erron Hubbard

Erron Hubbard

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At scrum half, Erron Hubbard thrives under the responsibility asked of him on the pitch. The ultimate team player, Hubbard finds comfort in being able to tune his thoughts to the game, knowing his teammates trust him to help them succeed. Rugby has given him the tools to become a better teammate and commit 110% effort to every game. He prides himself on believing in his teammates, because he knows that through hard work and playing as one, nothing can stop them from achieving what they deserve. “The more I think to myself, the more I understand what I am and who I’m supposed to be. I came to this realization by not only observing and thinking, but actively participating in the sports that I love made me realize that there is nothing else that I would rather do. Basketball taught me to give it all to the last buzzer. Football taught me that every person on the team makes an impact on the game. Rugby, however, continues to teach me different things every time I play,” said Erron. Hubbard began his rugby career as a freshman in high school for Freedom Preparatory Academy. In his first season, he was awarded Rookie of the Year and was recognized as Most Valuable Player at the Middle Tennessee State University Elite Camp. Erron also appeared on the pitch for Tennessee Tri-Star Rugby and Memphis Inner City Rugby and served as team captain.

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In his senior season with Memphis Inner City Rugby, he was awarded Most Valuable Player at the Tropical Rugby 7s Tournament.  “His competitive spirit also reigned supreme as the fire in his eyes lights up for academics just as much as it does for sports. He looked to better himself at every opportunity and goes forth to demand feedback from coaches and students, while reciprocating the constructive criticism amongst his peers. His will and drive are among the strongest I ever seen. Fighting through injury to stay on the field and be there for his team.

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Erron’s heart remains to be in the right place at all times and looks to have morals behind everything he does and gives everything he’s got every time he is tasked with something. And will be looking to do it with a smile on his face,” said Memphis Inner City Rugby Program Coordinator, Jordan “Jimmi” Young.In the spring of 2021, Erron graduated from Freedom Preparatory Academy Flagship High in Memphis, Tennessee with a 3.7 grade point average. While excelling on the pitch and in the classroom, he was also an active member in Freedom Prep’s student body, serving as a four-year member of the student panel, as well as holding leadership roles as a student co-vice president and guest guide. Hubbard is continuing his academic and athletic career at the University of Memphis.

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After his first semester, Erron’s one-of-a-kind spirit and zest for the game has already made an impact on the Tigers Rugby program. “Erron is a wonderful, bright, emotionally intelligent young man. He’s come in as a freshman here and worked his butt off since day one. Starting out in the JV squad and finally cracking the varsity squad at the end of the season, due to his growth mindset and constant push to better himself. Off the field, it is clear that Erron is one of the team’s favorite teammates. Not only that, but he is constantly giving back to the youth rugby community at practices and mentorship,” said Blake White, University of Memphis Men’s Rugby Head Coach.