LAFAYETTE, Colo. – USA Rugby announced today, the selection of Worcester Warriors Director of Rugby, Gary Gold, to lead coaching duties with the Men’s Eagles on the 15s side. With nearly 20 years of experience in coaching and executive roles, Gold brings multi-national rugby leadership to the position as the Eagles look to continue their growth domestically and on the global stage.

“We are very fortunate to have recruited an individual with Gary’s experience, commitment and values.” said Dan Payne, USA Rugby CEO, “Myself and our hiring panel were more than just impressed with his rugby history. We saw a sincerity and skill set in Gary that fits perfectly with how we want this position to contribute toward the growth of rugby in America. Developing players, coaches and contributing toward grassroots growth were all areas that enthused Gary when we described the expectations of this role. We’re very happy with the result.”

Gold joins USA Rugby after serving as Worcester Warriors Director of Rugby since January 2016, “Furthermore, I have to thank Worcester Warriors for their partnership and commitment in working together through this process.” Continued Payne, “The agreed approach allows for a seamless transition with the Warriors, and the ability to merge Gary’s identity into the Men’s program.”

The hiring and review committee included USA Rugby High Performance General Manager Alex Magleby, former Men’s Eagle and current Saracen Chris Wyles, along with Dave Hodges, General Manager of the Men’s 15s National Team.

“This is an exciting time for rugby in America,” added Hodges, “It was important that we took our time in the process of hiring the Men’s National Team Head Coach and arrive at the best possible candidate. We believe that in Gary Gold, we have a coach who brings the highest level of international and professional coaching experience to the Men’s senior program.”

Gold himself commented, “I’m very thankful for the opportunity to move to Colorado and contribute toward growing and developing the game of rugby in America. There’s a lot of hard work to be done with some tremendous potential. Hard work, combined with the upside potential is what excites me about this position.”

“It has been made clearly obvious to me from numerous individuals within the organization that this position isn’t just about continuing the development of the Men’s National Team, although that is obviously a key focal point.” Continued Gold, “Equally important is the attention toward the development of coaches, being an ambassador for growth of the game in America and contributing toward the strong grassroots initiatives the union is putting forth. Everyone must understand that all of these aspects lead us toward the continued development and achievements of the Men’s National team.”

Gold holds a wealth of experience in Premiership Rugby with a resume including Newcastle Rugby Football Club and London Irish. In an interim role as Director of Rugby with Newcastle, the club would win 8 of their last 12 matches. With London Irish, Gold would initiate the London Irish Academy, supervising pathways to the senior roster.

“Gary brings an incredible amount of experience to this program.” Continued Payne, “Not only from a coaching perspective, but his increased attention to development and pathways leading into the elite level was an attribute we fully supported.”

On an international stage, Gold has a long tenure with his home country Springboks. Initially joining the staff as a Technical Analyst in 2004, he would be promoted to Assistant Coach just four years later and continue in the role through 2011. During his time with South Africa, the Boks would win the Vodcam Tri Nations in 2009 and defeat the New Zealand All Blacks a record three consecutive matches, earning IRB Team of the Year.

“I would like to thank all management, staff and players of Worcester Warriors for the incredible support I have had in my short time here. I really appreciate their understanding of this new exciting opportunity I have.” Gold added, “This is an incredible group of players, who while maybe have not had all the results go in their favor, have tremendous courage and passion for this club. I know they will gradually grow to being a force in Premiership rugby. I wish them all the very best in the future”

Known specifically for a technical and analytical approach to coaching, Hodges added, “With that experience and work ethic, Gary will leave no stone unturned as he guides this program through Rugby World Cup 2019.”