The University at Buffalo Rugby Alumni Association is pleased to sponsor Santa Clara University Head Coach Paul Keeler as this year's guest coach at UB Rugby's annual pre-season camp August 21-18.
Keeler, a World Rugby Level 3 coach, is one of the United States most successful and respected coaches, having led national powerhouse clubs San Francisco Golden Gate and Old Blue (NYC). He has also coached the USA Rugby Men's “A” side and was the head coach of PRO Rugby team San Francisco Rush. He is currently the head coach at Santa Clara University.
Keeler began playing rugby at the collegiate level in Buffalo for Canisius College before moving on to play with the Buffalo Rugby Club and later Rockaway RFC and Old Blue RFC of the Rugby Super League where his team reached the playoffs four times including two RSL semifinals.
Keeler will assist the UB coaching staff in all aspects of the game with an emphasis on analysis and feedback for the club's practice and game cycle leading up to and following the club's pre-season matches with Syracuse University.
"We're excited to have a coach of Paul's caliber join us this year" said UB Rugby Head Coach Mike Hodgins. "He brings a wealth of knowledge and his credentials speak for themselves." he added.
Current UB Rugby club president Jake Oppenheim appreciates the support from the UBRAA. "In the short time our alumni association has been up and running, the support has been tremendous." said Oppenheim. "The guest coaches is another example of that and one of the great things about playing rugby at UB."
The University at Buffalo Men's Rugby Club opens their Fall 2017 Season August 26th when they host Syracuse University in a pre-season contest.
About UBRAA: Formed in the summer of 2016, the goal of the UB Rugby Alumni Association is to provide a network of alumni support across the country and to raise funds for travel expenses, equipment, training, recruitment and scholarships.