Walsh University has appointed three coaches to lead its new men's and women's rugby programs, which compete in the National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) league. The men's team will compete in the Rugby East conference, widely regarded as the top collegiate rugby conference in the country. The women's team will compete in the Allegheny Rugby Union. These strategic hires follow the recent closure of Notre Dame College, resulting in the transition of their rugby teams to Walsh.

Jason Fox has been named Director of Rugby and Head Coach for the men’s rugby team. Fox brings extensive experience and a proven track record, including guiding the Falcons to national prominence. He led Notre Dame College to the 2023 NCR D1 Men's National Championship and was honored as the USA Rugby Competitive Coach of the Year in 2016. Fox said, “I am honored to be part of Walsh University and to lead the Cavaliers rugby program. I look forward to building on the team’s previous successes and creating a vibrant, competitive environment that our players and fans can be proud of.”

Cornel Britz joins as Assistant Coach for men's rugby. Britz, a former semiprofessional player, has a robust coaching background. He played for the Griffons u/19 Currie Cup team and earned a degree in Sport Science from the University of Stellenbosch. Britz will assist Fox in all aspects of the men’s program.

Kelly Wallenhorst takes on the role of Head Coach for women's rugby, a top emerging sport for women. Wallenhorst, who earned her MBA from Notre Dame College, brings numerous academic and athletic honors. As a first-time head coach, she will oversee all aspects of the women's rugby program, including recruiting, scheduling, and fundraising. Wallenhorst said, “I am thrilled to lead the women’s rugby team at Walsh University. We aim to build a strong, competitive program that excels both on and off the field.”

“We are thrilled to welcome the rugby teams and Coaches Fox, Britz, and Wallenhorst to Walsh University,” said President Tim Collins. “Athletics serves as one of our largest learning laboratories on campus offering invaluable lessons in teamwork leadership resilience This move not only enhances our athletic offerings but also aligns with our Catholic mission fostering community integrity excellence We look forward positive impact they have university broader community”

Walsh University leadership collaborated with Fox to evaluate integrating teams into its athletic program To accommodate them Walsh designated grass fields north side Klekotka Tennis Complex official pitch new teams

The addition coaches marks significant milestone promising uphold advance legacy established by Notre Dame College Teams rich history success achievement align tradition excellence Keeping together priority us honored chose said Christina Paone Interim Vice President Athletics Athletic Director excited work talented coaches look forward success bring programs

Since committing assist students February 29 hundreds visited campus received applications April steadily coming set up fundraising pagewww.walsh.edu/givendcspecifically transferring Donors further restrict gifts program