US Rugby Foundation and Andrew S. McPherson Announce New Scholarship for University of Texas Rugby Players

The US Rugby Foundation (USRF) is excited to announce the Andrew S. McPherson University of Texas at Austin Rugby Scholarship Program, a new fund dedicated to supporting student-athletes at the University of Texas at Austin Men’s Rugby Club.

‍

Established by Andrew S. McPherson, a founding member of the official University of Texas Austin Rugby Club, this annual scholarship will award $3,500 to a deserving member of the University of Texas Men’s Rugby Club. The scholarship is designed to recognize a player who demonstrates a strong balance of academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to the team.

‍

“Andrew's generosity and his commitment to the next generation of rugby players are truly inspiring,” said Jon Hinkin, President of the US Rugby Foundation. “This scholarship is a fantastic opportunity to help a deserving student pursue their academic and athletic goals, and it reflects the values that make the rugby community so strong.”

‍

The scholarship also honors McPherson's personal history with the sport, which began in high school and continued at the University of Texas. He was a founding member of the first official, all-student University of Texas rugby team in 1985. The scholarship’s purpose is to help future players achieve their educational goals while continuing to grow the University of Texas rugby program.

‍

Andrew S. McPherson shared his motivation for creating the fund. “Rugby and my time at the University of Texas gave me so much—lifelong friendships, valuable lessons, and a passion for the sport that has never left me,” said McPherson. “I'm honored to be able to give back and help the next generation of University of Texas rugby players pursue their academic goals while continuing to grow this incredible program.”

‍

Scholarship Details & Application

Administered by the US Rugby Foundation, the scholarship is open to any full-time student at the University of Texas at Austin who is an active member of the Men’s Rugby Club. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 and demonstrate strong leadership and character. Financial need may be considered but is not required.

‍

To kickstart the program and make an immediate impact for the 2026-2027 season, the scholarship application process will open early.

• Initial Kickoff Scholarship Process: Applications will be accepted from January 1 to May 1, 2026, through the USRF's scholarship portal at usrugbyfoundation.org. The selected recipient will be announced in June 2026, with the award applied for the upcoming 2026-2027 academic year.
• Standard Annual Scholarship Process: Also in 2026, the application period will align with all US Rugby Foundation College Scholarships and run from May 1 to August 31 each year.

‍

Applicants must submit a personal statement, an academic transcript, and at least one letter of support from a rugby coach.

‍

The scholarship recipient will be selected by University of Texas at Austin Rugby Club leadership in consultation with the USRF Scholarship Selection Committee. Andrew S. McPherson will make the final award decision.

‍

About the University of Texas at Austin Men’s Rugby Club

The University of Texas at Austin Men’s Rugby Club is a nationally recognized D1AA collegiate rugby program within the Lonestar Conference of National Collegiate Rugby League with a rich history of winning. The team fosters a challenging and supportive environment that encourages full dedication both on the field and in the classroom. The club welcomes new members of all experience levels, helping to develop a new generation of players and leaders for the sport. Learn more about Texas Rugby at www.texasrugby.club‍

‍

About the US Rugby Foundation

The US Rugby Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization, which has for six decades supported the growth and development of youth rugby in the United States. The Foundation accomplishes this by funding and promoting grassroots programs, college scholarships, coach & referee development, and health & safety. To learn more about USRF visit usrugbyfoundation.org.

‍