David Hodges Named Eagles General Manager

Photo: David Hodges

USA Rugby Release: January 4, 2016

LAFAYETTE, Colo. – USA Rugby announced the hire of one of its most-capped Eagles, David Hodges, as general manager of the Men’s National Team.

Hodges, who earned 53 international caps in the back row in an eight-year career, brings a wealth of experience gained throughout his time as a player, coach, and administrator to the Eagles. Captain for more than half of his games played in a U.S. jersey, Hodges will oversee national team logistics operations for the program.

“USA Rugby would like to welcome Dave to the National Office fold in an important position,” USA Rugby Chief Executive Officer Dan Payne said. “You won’t find a person more committed and loyal to rugby in America than ‘Hodgey.’ The work ethic, legacy, and American presence he will bring to the Men’s National Team staff is obvious to all that know him.”

He is also one of the most recognized American players overseas, having played for Welsh Pro12 side Scarlets for seven seasons following his discovery of the game at Occidental College and an Old Mission Beach Athletic Club career. The dual All-American in rugby and football has also impacted the growth of rugby in the United States off of the pitch, having previously served on the Board of Directors for USA Rugby as well as heading up youth development. On the coaching side, Hodges worked as an assistant U.S. National Team coach and was formerly head coach of the AIG Men’s Collegiate All-Americans.

Hodges comes to USA Rugby from United World Sports, where he was the vice president of sales at Rhino Rugby and director of operations for the HSBC USA Sevens tournament in Las Vegas.

“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to work with our Men’s National Team again as we strive for Rugby World Cup qualification,” Hodges said. “Working every day to assist in the success of our Eagles is an exciting proposition in addition to identifying and tracking the next generation of American men and women players with our partners at Atavus.

“It is a great time to be involved with USA Rugby. I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves, and am thankful for the leadership of Dan Payne as we work to get better every day.”

In addition to his responsibilities with the senior side, Hodges will also assist in managing the age-grade pathways; from the scheduling and promotion of USA Rugby Academy Camps powered by Atavus to the tracking and identification of young athletes for future high performance selection. His eye for the game will prove instrumental as the Eagles and age-grade national teams project towards the future.

“Dave’s appointment is fantastic news for us,” Eagles Head Coach John Mitchell said. “He brings with him the nationalism we emphasize, and a wealth of experience and a logistical capacity necessary to enhance the performance of the individuals. I have already enjoyed working with him in this brief planning period for the upcoming Americas Rugby Championship.”

Hodges can be contacted via email at dhodges@usarugby.org.