What's Going Right
At the US Rugby Foundation, we believe that the success of youth and grassroots rugby defines the future of our game. Our new series examines and celebrates best practices, success stories, and innovations across all levels of American rugby. We want to hear 'What's Going Right' in your region.
Portland Rugby
Portland Rugby merged two clubs into one nonprofit and built a $3.6 million home field. Three lessons: reform governance before breaking ground, treat setbacks as milestones rather than obstacles, and keep volunteers connected to the mission with visible progress — not just the labor.
ICEF Rugby
South LA's ICEF Rugby built a program that outlasts its founder. Rugby Director Lisa Finegan explains three habits behind it: build systems, not heroes; develop leaders before you need them; treat relationships as infrastructure. Their social return study finds $4–$9 of community value for every dollar invested.
Memphis Inner City Rugby
Since 2012, Memphis Inner City Rugby has served 4,000 student-athletes and sent over 100 to college. The formula: funding raised outside the rugby community, eight full-time staff instead of volunteers, and a pathway where rugby is the vehicle and education is the destination.