Alex Goff - Goff Rugby Report

[email protected] TakeawaysGirls youth rugby is experiencing significant growthIncreased number of single-school rugby teams emerging across the USUSA Rugby's "Moonshot" goal aims for World Cup quarterfinals in 2031, with improved talent identification and development pathwaysCollege rugby programs are adapting to demographic changes and exploring new recruitment strategies TopicsGrowth in High School RugbyGirls youth and high school rugby seeing explosive growthBoys high school rugby continuing steady growthIncrease in single-school teams, including public schools in Northern California, Southern California, Louisiana, Texas, and FloridaPositive impact of on-campus rugby programs for recruitment and sustainability Player Development and National Team PathwaysUSA Rugby implementing virtual academy and talent ID camps across the countryImproved tracking and follow-up systems for identified playersVirtual academy provides specific feedback on skills and areas for improvementEmphasis on proactive communication from players to coaches and selectorsWomen's rugby allows for later entry into high-level play compared to men's College Rugby LandscapeEnrollment cliff affecting college admissions, particularly for young menTwo-year programs like American River College and Iowa Central providing alternative pathwaysD1A programs investing in high-level coaches to improve competitivenessImportance of building depth and developing B-side players for program sustainability Notable Players and ProgramsPlayers to watch: Max Colson (Charlotte Cardinals), Spencer Huntley, Mark French (St. Ignatius), Jack Patek (Jesuit Sacramento)College programs of interest: American River College, Iowa Central, UNC Chapel Hill, Cal Poly, UCLAHigh School Rankings and NationalsGoff Rugby Report releases preseason top 50 boys high school rankingsRankings based on previous year's performance, returning players, and program trajectoryNational championships in Elkhart, Indiana provide excellent playing conditions and affordable accommodations Next StepsSubmit applications for high school national championships by February 1stWatch for emerging single-school programs and their impact on local rugby scenesMonitor the progress of USA Rugby's talent identification and development initiativesKeep an eye on college programs adapting to demographic changes and new coaching hires   worldrugbyshop.comrugbynorcal.orggoffrugbyreport.com