About Spartan Rugby

History

Dr McBeath first introduced Rugby to San Jose State University as a class, which is still being taught to this day (KIN 013A - Beginning Rugby). Through this class, Dr McBeath started the first team in San Jose history some 30 years ago. To this day, he still lends his expertise and advice to the technical part of the game. He continued to contribute by assisting in the development and support of the Northern Collegiate Rugby Union. This union has been one of the most prominent and respected leagues in the United States. This has helped spur the interest in Rugby for the last 25 years at the University.

Goal

To provide a Rugby Club for a wide range of people from diverse cultures with differing athletic abilities for Men and Women wanting to participate.

Objective

To encourage those who feel competitive and want to explore a new sport that will maintain or develop their athletic abilities in a competitive environment. Also to help in the development of cross cultural ties with participants from other countries.

Commentary

The purpose of this proposal is to help develop and enhance the sport of Rugby at San Jose State University. Dr McBeath, who originally came from New Zealand some 30 years ago, brought the sport of Rugby to the University. Dr McBeath was also a Professor for the Communications Department at the University. The SJSU Rugby Club has remained an independent club from the rest of the collegiate sports within the University system. The purpose of this was so there would be no fear of rejection in making "the team". By encouraging this, the sport has remained open to those who wanted to explore and learn the sport in a non-exclusive environment. Hence, those who were unable to make the University Football (Gridiron) program now had an alternative sport which is good for those who needed a to fill the gap after High School Football. The Rugby Club at SJSU will remain open to anyone irrespective of athletic abilities, shape or form. With Rugby, this develops team unity and enthusiasm.