ABOUT US
Rugby LA exists to positively impact the physical and emotional wellbeing of youth through the sport of rugby.
Rugby LA is the largest non-contact flag rugby provider in the United States and among the fastest-growing afterschool programs in Los Angeles. Since our founding in 2021, we've grown steadily each year, and this season, we're on track to reach 150 afterschool sites, serving over 2,500 youth in no-cost athletic and youth development programming. We've trained more than 1,000 coaches, educators and recreation staff across Los Angeles County, and have active partnerships with many of the region's most trusted youth-serving organizations, including YMCA, After-School All-Stars, Great Public Schools Now, Woodcraft Rangers, and LA Conservation Corps.
We believe every young person deserves equal access to recreational activity that allows them to grow physically and socially. And above all, we believe every young person should have the chance to experience the joy and positivity that comes from being a part of a team. Los Angeles will host rugby at the LA28 Olympics and the Rugby World Cup in 2031 and 2033. Rugby LA wants to ensure young people across Southern California and beyond have a chance to fall in love with this sport before the world arrives.
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Rugby LA serves children and youth across Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, and Tulare Counties, primarily within under-resourced communities that lack no/low-cost athletic programming. Our programs welcome every young person — regardless of background, gender, income, body type, or ability.
Participants identify as youth of color
Participants identify as female
Participants from low-income families
Session hours implemented
We create environments where every young athlete feels protected and empowered. Our training, policies, and curriculum structure are designed to ensure our young athletes feel safe and supported on the pitch. Safety is the first and most important factor in all of our programs.
Supporting and validating the voice of our young athletes contributes to building positive coach-youth relationships, personal confidence, and fostering a stronger sense of the personal contribution young people can make as adults.
Play becomes passion when fun leads the way. Good leaders find accomplishment in defeat, encourage youth to focus on achieving their personal best, and emphasize the value of having fun regardless of the final score.
Connection transforms individual players into strong teams. Whether it's between a coach and athlete, fellow teammates, or how we interact with opposing teams, Rugby LA supports healthy relationships and respectful communication on and off the pitch.
Rugby LA celebrates the diversity of our coaching and youth athlete rosters. We believe every young person deserves equitable access to sport, no matter their identity or life circumstance.
The adults on our pitches were once kids on someone else's. Rugby LA recruits coaches from the neighborhoods they now serve, creating a cycle where today's participants become tomorrow's mentors.
From a kid's first clinic to statewide infrastructure — one continuous pipeline that develops young people and grows the sport.
Our leadership team and board are made up of educators, athletes, and community leaders who believe in the power of sport to change lives. Together, they guide Rugby LA's mission, strategy, and growth, ensuring sustainability and impact for years to come.
Founder & CEO
Deputy Director
Programs Manager
Chairperson
Director of Compliance, USA Rugby Of Counsel, The Allison Law Firm
Chief Financial Officer
Principal, Goehner Accountancy
Secretary
Retired, LAUSD Educator
Board Member
Division Head, Pediatric Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles
Board Member
Director, Oval Recruit Ltd.
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1 in 3 kids lack access to affordable, intramural sports. Together, we can change that.
Your gift ensures our ability to bring flag rugby to all parts of Southern California and beyond!
Luis, Grade 6
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