Rugby United New York & James English

Rugby United New York Release

NEW YORK – Rugby United New York has officially announced James English as the team’s General Manager as it prepares for its upcoming inaugural season in Major League Rugby. “James really impressed me in a lot of different ways,” said RUNY owner James Kennedy. “His vision for what a Major League Rugby team should look like, both on and off the field, as well as the way he conducted himself and his rugby experience really make him a strong candidate for this role. We are definitely thrilled to have him on board.”

English’s comments on beginning his new role were similarly enthusiastic, “Rugby United New York has big plans as a part of the MLR and I’m excited to be a part of that. There is no place like New York and we have the opportunity to bring professional rugby to one of the most dynamic, inspiring, and diverse cities in the world.”
James English has a wealth of experience playing and coaching rugby across England, Ireland and the United States. He played and studied at the University of Northampton before returning to his native London to earn a Post Graduate in Education in Physical Education and Coaching.

He served as the Head of Rugby and Long Term Athlete Development at specialist sports college CCCS in London while he played at the National League level. James then relocated to Dublin, Ireland to teach and coach rugby at the famous Blackrock College while playing in the All Ireland League.

Since moving to the United States, James has led rugby and program development as the Executive Director for Rugby Pennsylvania. He has also coached with Yale Men’s Rugby, Empire GU All-Stars, ATAVUS All-Stars, Play Rugby USA Community Olympic Development Program and with ATAVUS USA Rugby Academy. More recently, James has been a consultant with ATAVUS, while also starting a men’s and women’s college academy program at Monroe College in The Bronx, and in 2017 coached New York Rugby Club to a Women’s Premier League National Championship. James is also currently the Head Coach of the USA U20 Women’s Junior All-Americans.