Notre Dame College Director of Rugby Operations, Jason Fox, expressed his excitement about the move to Walsh University, stating, “I cannot express enough how happy we are to find a home at Walsh University as a Rugby program. For Walsh University to take two entire Rugby programs looking for a home is awesome! We hope to make Walsh proud!”

Walsh University President Tim Collins welcomed the Notre Dame College students, saying, “We are thrilled to welcome all Notre Dame College students to Walsh University. We extend our warmest welcome to them, offering our support and encouragement as they navigate this transition, guided by the values of community and compassion ingrained in our Catholic mission.”

The decision for the Notre Dame College Rugby teams to transition to Walsh University came after a special signing ceremony where 60 members of the teams signed letters of commitment on April 2, 2024. This move will see 42 members of the men’s team and 15 members of the women’s team transferring to Walsh University.

Walsh University, which currently does not have a Rugby program, was impressed by the dedication and desire of the Notre Dame College Rugby teams to stay together following a successful season. The university worked closely with Jason Fox to assess the feasibility of accommodating the teams.

To facilitate the transition, Walsh University has designated the grass fields on the north side of the Klekotka Tennis Complex as the new home ground for the Rugby teams. These fields, donated by the Hoover Company in 2004, will provide ample space for the teams to practice and compete.

The Notre Dame College Rugby teams have a history of success and achievement, with the men's team clinching the Division I National Collegiate Rugby Championship in 2023, and the women's team consistently excelling at the Division I level since 2012.

Since the announcement of the move, around 220 Notre Dame College students have visited Walsh University, with 130 applications received as of April 1. Walsh University is focusing on working closely with the teams, coaches, and all students interested in transferring to ensure a smooth transition. A fundraising page has been set up specifically for Notre Dame College students who are transitioning to Walsh University, with the option for donors to support the Rugby program.

The transition of the Notre Dame College Rugby teams to Walsh University marks a new chapter for both institutions, with a shared commitment to athletic excellence and community values.