Headshot of Ryan Fitzgerald. He is the rugby head coach traveling to commit players to the team. Courtesy of Loyola New Orleans athletic department

Loyola University New Orleans’ rugby program has begun traveling to recruit prospective students as part of its ongoing effort to build team rosters for future seasons.

Coach Ryan Fitzgerald has visited high schools, youth rugby clubs and regional tournaments across Louisiana and nearby states. The recruiting trips are intended to identify students interested in playing rugby at the collegiate level while attending Loyola.

Recruiting activities have focused on regions where youth and club rugby programs are established, as well as areas where the sport is developing. During these visits, the coach observes matches and training sessions and meets with players who may be eligible for future enrollment.

He has also met with high school coaches, club organizers and athletic coordinators during recruiting trips. These meetings are used to share information about Loyola’s rugby program and the university’s academic offerings. Building relationships with regional programs allows for continued communication with potential recruits and their coaches.

Loyola rugby operates as a club sport under the university’s student life and recreational sports structure. The team competes against other collegiate club programs and is funded through a combination of university support, student fees, and fundraising. Participation is open to enrolled students who meet eligibility requirements set by the club and its governing organizations.

Rugby participation at the collegiate level has increased nationwide in recent years, with more high schools offering the sport. This growth has led many universities to expand recruiting efforts for club rugby programs. Loyola’s travel-based recruiting reflects this broader trend among collegiate club teams.

According to rugby socials and the athletic website the current recruiting cycle is expected to continue throughout the academic year. Prospective students who express interest may remain in contact with the program through email, campus visits or future tournaments.

As recruiting efforts continue, the rugby program will use the information gathered from travel and outreach to finalize future rosters. The process is intended to ensure that enrolled students interested in rugby have the opportunity to participate once they arrive on campus.