UTAH YOUTH RUGBY
Our Mission
The mission of Utah Youth Rugby is to drive the growth of rugby by building a thriving community, expanding youth participation, and fostering pathways to high performance. We are committed to providing safe & inclusive opportunities for all young athletes, regardless of race, religion, gender, or socioeconomic status, to excel and grow both on and off the field, united by the values of teamwork, family, and respect.
Who We Are
Utah Youth Rugby, sanctioned by USA Rugby as a State Youth Rugby Organization, was formed in 2010 to promote, serve, advocate, and organize youth rugby in the Great State of Utah. Since then we have grown from a handful of teams to over 130 High School, Youth and Rookie level teams for boys and girls of all ages.
Our member clubs compete in 7s and 15s seasons throughout the year.
Utah Youth Rugby is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your tax deductible support helps us to continue developing our players, coaches, the organization and youth rugby in the State of Utah as a whole.
Thank-you for your support.
What is a State Youth Rugby Organization (SYRO)?
A SYRO is a non-profit organization coordinating/governing day-to-day operations for youth and high school rugby in each individual state. Utah Youth Rugby is the USA Rugby sanctioned SYRO for the State of Utah.
What is the objective of an SYRO?
The objective of an SYRO is to increase the total number of rugby players while lowering the age that kids are first introduced to the sport.
What are the responsibilities of an SYRO?
SYROs are responsible for developing an administrative structure with the objective of promoting the development of youth rugby within their state. They are also responsible for day-to-day governance including, but not limited to, organizing league structures, collecting dues, implementing a state championship, and conducting rugby outreach.
How many SYROs have been established?
There are currently 47 SYROs at various levels across the US.
What support does USA Rugby provide to the SYROs?
USA Rugby provides various levels of support to SYROs including best practices, developmental support, professional development opportunities, network access, and financial support. Financial support from USA Rugby is provided through two grant programs focusing on outreach efforts, equipment and supplies, and human resources support.
What are the advantages of a player joining Utah Youth Rugby and is it required?
There are tremendous benefits for players, coaches, referees, and supporters joining their SYROs. Members will be protected under USA Rugby’s liability insurance and receive numerous benefits from National sponsors for joining. Additionally, individuals will benefit from various playing, coaching, and refereeing resources and courses, competitions and events, and personal support in developing the game. Players wishing to join a Utah Youth Rugby member club are required to join Utah Youth Rugby.
How can someone become involved in Utah Youth Rugby?
Individuals can become involved in Utah Youth Rugby across many levels. Many volunteers and paid employees work as administrators, coaches, referees and supporters. In order to get involved with Utah Youth Rugby contact Brent Meier through brent@utahyouthrugby.org
Board of Directors
Alex Nunnaly
Chairman
Adam Griffee
Vice Chair
Vacant
Secretary
De'dy Chivers
Treasurer
Ryan Ewer
Disciplinary Chair
Jeff Wilson
Boys Single School Chair
Tom Filipe
Boys Multi School Chair
Amanda Morris
Girls Chair
Mike Braun
ULR Chair
Brent Meier
Advisor
Executive Team
Edwin Lehauli
Executive Director
Melinda Filipe
Registrar
Tyler Nielsen
Accountant
Jen Sika
Girls Commissioner
Vaha Esikia
Boys Commissioner