Rugby United New York Release
NEW YORK (August 23, 2018)- Rugby United New York, New York City’s first professional rugby franchise, concludes their Development Camp and Combine series this week in Cranford, New Jersey. Rugby United New York previously held development camps and combines in Buffalo and Pelham, NY. RUNY has teamed up with Atavus and the Empire Geographical Rugby Union for these events.
The camps are serving multiple purposes. On one hand, the coaches are there to scout talent, identifying athletes that could potentially make a Rugby United New York Roster in the future. Each athlete goes through a series of physical tests, such as the 10-meter dash, 40-meter dash, and various strength assessments. After the physical tests are completed, the camp is divided into groups, and the athletes’ skills are put to the test.
“These combines are a great way to see who else is out there,” RUNY General Manager James English said. “There are so many athletes in this area, both rugby players, and non-rugby players. We needed to host a few camps to see if there were any rugby players that might not be on our radar, as well as any athletes that we could potentially turn into rugby players.”
The camps and combines aren’t reserved for those in the greater New York City area though. English has been contacted by athletes from around the world, including Japan, Ireland, even the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is a testament to how fast the Rugby United New York brand has grown.
Winston Lee, a former Syracuse track star that walked on to their football team, attended the second development camp and combine. At Syracuse, his best 100-meter dash time was 10.47 seconds. He appeared primarily on special teams for the Orange’s football team but averaged over 8 yards per carry in high school as a running back. The thought of being a professional rugby player attracted Winston, and he could not miss out on the opportunity to showcase his athletic ability.
The camps are also a useful tool to get involved with the local communities. Attendees are able to interact with Rugby United New York coaches and players in a hands-on environment. Head Coach Mike Tolkin, Forwards Coach Kees Lensing, and General Manager James English were all in attendance in Pelham this past weekend. Atavus have provided experienced coaches for each camp, giving unique insight to athletes looking to take their game to the next level.
After hosting two successful events, Rugby United New York closes their summer development camp and combine this Sunday at Unami Park in Cranford, New Jersey. You can sign up for the event here: http://www.rugbyunitedny.com/camps/2018-combines.
