Notre Dame College rugby joins Walsh University
NORTH CANTON, Ohio — Exciting news is on the horizon for sports enthusiasts as Walsh University prepares to welcome the players and coaching staff from Notre Dame College’s men’s and women’s Rugby teams into its fold. Following an extensive search process, 42 members of the men’s team and 15 members of the women’s team have expressed their intent to join Walsh University, marking a significant addition to the institution’s athletic community. Notably, on April 2, a ceremony held at the Euclid campus saw 60 members of the Notre Dame College Rugby teams formalizing their commitment through signed letters.
Despite not having a Rugby program in place, Walsh University was moved by the determination and cohesion exhibited by the Notre Dame College teams, especially following a successful season. Collaborating closely with Jason Fox, Notre Dame College’s Director of Rugby Operations, Walsh University evaluated the feasibility of accommodating these teams within its sports infrastructure.
Renowned for their prowess, Notre Dame College’s Rugby teams compete at the highest collegiate level in the National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) league as part of the Rugby East conference, which boasts esteemed institutions like Army, West Point, U.S. Naval Academy, Penn State University, and St. Bonaventure. In preparation for their arrival, Walsh University has designated the grass fields adjacent to the Klekotka Tennis Complex as the venue for the new Rugby teams’ activities. These fields, generously donated by the Hoover Company in 2004, offer ample space for practice and competition, catering to the teams’ preference for natural grass surfaces.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Jason Fox, Notre Dame College’s Director of Rugby Operations, remarked, “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!”
Aligning with Walsh University’s tradition of athletic excellence, the addition of the Notre Dame College Rugby teams enriches the institution’s sporting legacy. The men’s team, in particular, achieved a significant milestone in 2023 by clinching the Division I National Collegiate Rugby Championship, while the women’s team has consistently demonstrated prowess at the Division I level since its establishment in 2012.
Walsh University President Tim Collins expressed his excitement about welcoming the Notre Dame College students, affirming the institution’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment guided by its Catholic mission.
Since announcing their commitment to assist Notre Dame College students on February 29, Walsh University has witnessed a notable influx of interest. Approximately 220 Notre Dame students have toured the campus, with 130 applications received as of April 1, indicating a strong response to the transition.
Moving forward, Walsh University remains dedicated to facilitating a seamless integration process for the teams, coaches, and all interested Notre Dame College students. Additionally, the university has established a dedicated fundraising page at www.walsh.edu/givendc to support incoming Notre Dame students, with the option for donors to specifically contribute to the Rugby program. This initiative underscores Walsh University’s commitment to fostering a supportive community and ensuring the continued success of its athletic programs.
Thank you, Kimberley Graves, Director of University of Relations of Walsh University for providing the information for this story!
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