Men's Rugby

SAINT MARY'S COLLEGE MEN'S RUGBY

Established in 1888, Men's Rugby at Saint Mary's College is respected as one of the elite college rugby programs in the country. "Our Gaels stand on the shoulders of all who wore the red and blue hoops before them." Men's Rugby at Saint Mary's College continues to dominate the highest collegiate level of competition. Year after year, these athletes prove they are the best around.

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Men’s Rugby Completes Centennial Tour of New Zealand

Where ‘Footy’ is a Way of Life

To mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Pat Vincent—who transformed SMC Rugby into a powerhouse—the Gaels embarked on a tour of New Zealand. For a new generation of players, it was a chance to get to know the place that has shaped Gaels rugby. Read more here.

Gaels Brave in Defeat in Semifinals Showdown

In the Collegiate Rugby National Semifinals match on April 19, defending national champs Saint Mary’s were down early against Cal and gave it their all to fight back. But this day went to the Golden Bears, 38–27.

Gaels Beat the Wildcats in the Quarterfinals

SMC defeated Central Washington in a riveting 53–48 match at Saint Mary’s Stadium. Now the Gaels prepare to take on Cal in the semifinals. And SMC's John Wilson is a finalist for the Rugby Player of the Year.

SMC Holds off UCLA in 24–17

The Gaels got out in front early and survived a strong comeback effort from the Bruins.

Saint Mary’s Rugby Beats Brigham Young in Impressive Fashion

The fifth-ranked Gaels hosted the sixth-ranked BYU Cougars on February 15 in a matchup that will influence playoff seeding and national recognition. The Gaels prevailed 60–28.

Gaels Keep the Broncos off the Scoreboard

In the Men's Rugby matchup on February 8, Saint Mary’s performed against Santa Clara like true defending champs.

Gaels Dominate Grand Canyon in a Win of Epic Proportions

Saint Mary’s shows impeccable skill and speed with the 92–3 victory over the Lopes. By Isabella Buoncristiani ’28, Club Sports Writer. Pictured: Sione Ofa '27 & John Wilson '26

The Redemption

Last year, Life West prevailed against Saint Mary’s in a nail biting 37-31 victory. The sting from that loss seemed to fuel the Gael’s performance on the pitch. By: Isabella Buoncristiani ‘28, Club Sport Writer. Pictured: Matthew Abbes '26

News & Game Recaps

Gael Rugby Achievements

2025-26 Game Schedule & Tickets

Team Roster

Team Activities

Teammates Serving Meals for the After Match Feed

Snowshoeing in Yosemite Valley

Team Training on the Beach

Annual Team Bonding Trip to Yosemite

Gaels Against Human Trafficking

Rugby ID Camp

Men's Rugby Team Bonding at Sunol Paintball

Special Visit from Wayne "Buck" Shelford

Men's Rugby winter team bonding trip to Yosemite

First day of Practice team run to the Cross

Senior class retreat at Warren Lake

Contact Men's Rugby

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Tim O'Brien
Coach: Mark Bass
Coach: Andrew Cook
Coach Mike McCarthy
Coach: Francois Pieterse

Email Men's Rugby

mensrugby@stmarys-ca.edu

Live Games on YouTube

Instagram

Facebook

Men's Rugby Alumni & Fundraisers

The Legacy of Pat Vincent

Each year Saint Mary’s Rugby Alumni Board Association celebrated the life and legacy of Patrick B Vincent. During this event, the passionate alumni & supportive friends gather to recognize an outstanding Gael supporter, while fundraising dollars that support Men's Rugby at Saint Mary's College.

Save the Date

2025 Pat Vincent Fundraiser: November 22, 2025

Alumni in the News

Gael Rugby Alumni have made a great name for our program! With countless players graduating from Saint Mary's and going on to play professional rugby! Along with nearly 15 players representing our country on USA Rugby!

Squad Locker

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