ABOUT US
Every child deserves a team.
Our Mission
Rugby LA exists to positively impact the physical and emotional wellbeing of youth through the sport of rugby.
Our Story
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.
Our Vision
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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Who We Serve
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.
95%
Participants identify as youth of color
44%
Participants identify as female
91%
Participants from low-income families
4,000+
Session hours implemented
Our Values
Child Safety
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.
Youth Voice
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.
Fun over Final Scores
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.
Healthy Relationships
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.
Inclusivity
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.
Mentorship
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.
Our Pathway
From a kid's first clinic to statewide infrastructure — one continuous pipeline that develops young people and grows the sport.
Our A-Side Squad
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.
STAFF
Harrison Herndon
Founder & CEO
Eric Anderson
Deputy Director
Gus Nunez
Programs Manager
BOARD
Kelly Burton, Esq.
Chairperson
Director of Compliance, USA Rugby Of Counsel, The Allison Law Firm
Ed Patterson, CPA
Chief Financial Officer
Principal, Goehner Accountancy
David Hastings
Secretary
Retired, LAUSD Educator
Dr. Michael Bryant
Board Member
Division Head, Pediatric Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles
Ed Groves
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!
Every Gift Gets a Kid in the Game
“The first time I scored a Try... I hope everyone gets to have that same feeling some day.”
Luis, Grade 6
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