US Rugby Foundation and University of Texas Announce the Opening of the Inaugural Andrew S. McPherson University of Texas at Austin Scholarship
The US Rugby Foundation is proud to announce that applications for the first-ever Andrew S. McPherson University of Texas at Austin Scholarship will officially open on January 1, 2026. This landmark scholarship program, established in late 2025, is designed to support the long-term growth, recruitment, and competitive excellence of the University of Texas at Austin Men’s Rugby Club.
This scholarship honors the legacy of Andrew S. McPherson, a cornerstone of the program’s history. Andrew served as the starting #4 Lock for the 1984-1985 squad—the first all-student team at the University—and continued his role the following year as a founding member of the university's officially sanctioned inaugural club. Although his time on the pitch was brief, the values of the game and the enduring bonds he formed left a profound impact on his life, inspiring this commitment to the next generation of Texas Rugby.
Funded by dedicated alumni and facilitated by the US Rugby Foundation, the program provides an annual award of $3,500 to a student-athlete who embodies the balance of academic rigor, leadership, and athletic commitment.
Kickoff Application Cycle
To make an immediate impact for the 2026–2027 academic year, the US Rugby Foundation and University of Texas are launching an exclusive "Initial Kickoff" application period. While the scholarship will eventually follow a standard fall cycle, this inaugural window allows current Longhorns to apply early:
- Application Period: January 1, 2026 – May 31, 2026
- Recipient Announcement: June 2026
- Award Amount: $3,500
Eligibility & Requirements
The program is open to dedicated members of the UT Men’s Rugby Club who meet the following criteria:
- Enrollment: Must be a full-time student at the University of Texas at Austin.
- Team Status: Must be an active member of the Men’s Rugby Club.
- Academics: Must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75.
- Submission Materials: Applicants must provide a personal statement, an official academic transcript, and at least one letter of support from a rugby coach.
Investing in the Future of Texas Rugby
The establishment of this scholarship marks a professional shift for the UT Rugby program. By providing a stable financial resource, the scholarship assists Head Coach Van Stewart in attracting top-tier talent to the Division I-AA team, ensuring that the Longhorns remain competitive with fully funded athletic programs.
"This scholarship converts passionate alumni support into a reliable foundation for the future," said Mickey Johnson, Alumni Board Member. "By partnering with the US Rugby Foundation, we are ensuring transparency, professional administration, and a legacy that supports our student-athletes both on the pitch and in the classroom."
How to Apply
Beginning January 1, 2026, eligible student-athletes can submit their applications:
www.usrugbyfoundation.org/college-scholarships
and www.texasrugby.club/scholarship
About the US Rugby Foundation: The US Rugby Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to growing the game of rugby in the United States. By providing grants, scholarships, and resources to players, coaches, and referees, the Foundation ensures the grassroots health and high-performance future of the sport.
About University of Texas Men’s Rugby: Established in 1985, the University of Texas Men’s Rugby Club is a premier collegiate club program. Competing at the Division I-AA level, the club emphasizes leadership, physical excellence, and academic achievement among its members.
