Shaping the Future of US Rugby: Leroy Taylor’s Journey and Impact

The US Rugby Foundation is proud to highlight the story of Leroy Taylor, from Memphis Inner City Rugby to international coaching reflects the transformative power of rugby. Leroy will be a featured speaker at the upcoming Shaping the Future of US Rugby event in Dallas, TX, where he will share his experiences, insights, and vision for growing the sport in the United States.

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The Foundations in Memphis

Leroy’s rugby story began in 2015 when he first discovered the sport at his high school. He didn't just play; he excelled, quickly ascending through the ranks of the Memphis Inner City Rugby (MICR) program. By 2019, Leroy was serving as a captain, leading the MICR All-Star team to three regional championships during his senior year.

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As a first-generation college rugby player, Leroy continued his athletic and academic career at the University of Memphis. However, his commitment to the game extended far beyond his own jersey.

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Leading the Next Generation

At just 19 years old, while still a student-athlete himself, Leroy stepped into a leadership role as a MICR high school Head Coach. His ability to lead and inspire caught the attention of programs globally. This reputation eventually took him halfway across the world to Laos, where he participated in a prestigious coach development experience, exchanging skills and culture with international rugby communities.

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A New Chapter in Dallas

Today, Leroy’s life has moved into a new, rewarding phase. Living in Dallas, Texas, with his wife, Jasmine, and their nearly two-year-old daughter, Leroy continues to embody the values of the game: leadership, family, and community.

Urban Rugby Championship 2026

Leroy’s journey comes full circle this March as the rugby community descends on his new hometown of Dallas for the 2026 Urban Rugby Championship (URC). The URC is a pinnacle event for programs like MICR, bringing together athletes from urban centers across the country to compete at the highest level. As a former MICR captain and coach, Leroy’s story is a living example of what the URC represents.

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In addition to the URC, Leroy will also be a featured speaker at the upcoming Shaping the Future of US Rugby event in Dallas, TX, hosted by the US Rugby Foundation. There, he will discuss the future of rugby development in the U.S., share insights from his journey, and inspire the next generation of athletes, coaches, and rugby leaders.

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Creating Pathways to Excellence

Leroy’s journey from a high school rookie to an international coach is the exact "Pathway to Excellence" that the US Rugby Foundation strives to build for every athlete in America. By providing the resources, coaching networks, and community support necessary for young players to thrive, USRF ensures that the lessons learned on the pitch, discipline, resilience, and teamwork, translate into lifelong success.

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Stories like Leroy’s are made possible through the continued growth of grassroots programs and the expansion of coaching development grants. Whether it is through collegiate scholarships or international exchanges, the Foundation remains committed to identifying and elevating the next generation of leaders who will carry the torch for American rugby.

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The US Rugby Foundation is proud to share Leroy Taylor’s journey and to feature him as a speaker at Shaping the Future of US Rugby in Dallas, TX, inspiring the next generation of players and coaches.

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