About this episode
What You’ll Hear in This Episode 1. Inside Syracuse’s High-Performance Rugby Environment How Syracuse evolved from a participation-focused club to a performance-level program in about two years. Overview of facilities: dedicated rugby field with lights, on-site weight room, and a full-time strength & conditioning coach. The role of nutrition, mental skills, and off-field development in their weekly rhythm. 2. The Leinster Rugby Partnership Origin story: how Syracuse alumni connections led to a relationship with Leinster Rugby. What Leinster brings: coaching clinics, a player development framework, and a model for building homegrown talent. How the partnership shapes training design, standards, and long-term pathways for Syracuse players. 3. Program Structure and Player Experience Weekly load: 5 practices per week (around 2 hours per session) 2 dedicated weight-lifting sessions How coaches support players in balancing academics with rugby (class schedules, communication, and accountability). What it looks like for different levels of experience: Brand-new players finding their footing Established college players looking to grow MLR and national team prospects seeking a performance environment 4. Team Culture and Standards The values that drive behavior on and off the field. How player accountability shows up: attendance, standards, and peer leadership. The shift from “show up and play” to “compete, improve, and own your development.” 5. Pathways, Community, and Giving Back Syracuse fields three men’s sides and one women’s side, creating playing opportunities for roughly 60–70 athletes. Youth and community outreach: Camps reaching 400+ kids Coaching education for 135+ youth coaches Why community involvement matters for player growth and program sustainability. 6. Recruiting and How NorCal Players Can Get Involved What Syracuse is looking for in recruits: Motivation and willingness to compete Coachability and growth mindset Fit with the team’s culture and values The range of academic majors represented and how the team functions as an academic support network. Practical next steps for interested players from Northern California. Who This Episode Is For High school players who want a serious rugby environment with strong academic support. Parents and coaches in Northern California helping athletes explore college options. Club and high school coaches curious about how a college program builds culture and performance standards. How to Learn More / Get Recruited Program Info: Visit Syracuse University Rugby’s website for roster, schedule, and program details. Recruiting Contact: Colin O’Hare – Leinster Rugby / Syracuse partnership contact Email: Colin.OHare@leinsterrugby.ie (as shared on the episode) Next Steps for Interested Players: Listen to the full episode to hear exactly what the staff is looking for. Reach out with your rugby background, academic interests, and highlight film if available. Consider attending Leinster/Syracuse camps or clinics to experience the environment firsthand. worldrugbyshop.com rugbynorcal.org