Brendan Keane - USA Rugby Head of Player Systems & Development

Reach out to Brendan by email: [email protected] TakeawaysUSA Rugby has launched a Virtual Academy to connect with and develop players nationwidePlayers should focus on building good habits and creating a positive learning environment for themselvesThe talent ID process looks at athletic testing, rugby skills, and intangibles like communication and body languageThere's a clear pathway from U18 to U20 to senior national teams, but players can enter at various points TopicsUSA Rugby Pathway OverviewGoal is to reach World Cup quarterfinals by 2031 ("moonshot" program)Pathway extends from U15 to U23 age groupsVirtual Academy launched to engage players year-roundIn-person talent ID camps and assemblies for U18 and U20 teamsPlayers given feedback and development plans after camp Player Development FocusEmphasis on building good habits and routines from a young agePlayers encouraged to create positive learning environments for themselvesImportance of being coachable and honest about areas for improvementTechnical skills, athleticism, and intangibles like communication all evaluated Talent Identification ProcessTalent ID camps test 10m/40m sprints and standing broad jumpRugby skills assessed through drills and small-sided gamesCoaches evaluate decision-making, spatial awareness, and execution under pressurePlayer body language and communication also factored inLong-Term VisionEstablish permanent regional training centers across the U.S.Increase number of assemblies and staff to compete at top international levelUse 2031 World Cup as launching point for further growth of rugby in AmericaConnect more directly with players/coaches to provide resources and answer questions Next StepsPlayers should engage with Virtual Academy if interested in pathwayPrepare for upcoming NorCal talent ID camps on Jan 25 and March 23Coaches/players encouraged to reach out directly to USA Rugby staff with questionsContinue building towards 2031 World Cup "moonshot" goal worldrugbyshop.comrugbynorcal.orggoffrugbyreport.com