National Small College Rugby Organization (NSCRO) Release: May 16, 2017
Eastern Connecticut State University’s Athletic Director, Lori Runksmeier, Joins NSCRO Board of Directors
Medford, NJ 16 May 2017 – The National Small College Rugby Organization (NSCRO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Lori Runksmeier to its Board of Directors. Runksmeier has worked as an administrator in collegiate athletics for 25 years, the last 18 as a Director of Athletics at NCAA Division III schools. While at New England College, she was instrumental in transitioning men’s rugby from club to varsity status, hiring a full-time coach and increasing the operating budget. While she was at New England College, the men’s team won national titles in both 15’s and 7’s. She currently serves as the Director of Athletics at Eastern Connecticut State University, where she enjoys working with rugby coach Ray Aramini.
Runksmeier is interested in working with NSCRO to raise the profile of rugby as a sport that can help small colleges with enrollment management, diversity and increased sport opportunities.
NSCRO President Steve Cohen remarked that “adding someone of Lori’s background and expertise in small college athletics along her desire to improve small college rugby will greatly benefit NSCRO as well as provide us with a well-balanced and knowledgeable Board.”
About National Small College Rugby Organization
Since 2007, the National Small College Rugby Organization (NSCRO) has been at the forefront of fostering and developing small college rugby programs in the United States. NSCRO is comprised of more than 240 men’s and 135 women’s colleges and universities who participate in more than 30 leagues for an opportunity compete on a national level and showcase their abilities to a broader and larger audience.
By focusing on small colleges and universities, we help bring these schools, their teams and players exposure outside of their conference/union while also giving them a chance at a national title and ranking. NSCRO provides a responsive national organization dedicated to small colleges and universities which has helped legitimize rugby in the eyes of school administrators. The increased visibility and recognition from NSCRO has led to better school support, greater on-campus interest in rugby and more alumni involvement.
NSCRO is “The Home of Small College Rugby in America”.
