Join the BABC for a special Rugby event!

The BABC Northern California Young Professionals, in partnership  with Play Rugby USA, proudly presents “The Rise of Rugby – A Giant Awakens”.Please join us on August 26th, 2015, and share in the anticipation and excitement leading up to the 2015 Rugby World Cup to be hosted by the RFU – September 18-October 31, in the UK.

  The BABC Northern California Young Professionals, in partnership  with Play Rugby USA, proudly presents “The Rise of Rugby – A Giant Awakens”.

Please join us on August 26th, 2015, and share in the anticipation and excitement leading up to the 2015 Rugby World Cup to be hosted by the RFU – September 18-October 31, in the UK.

This event brings to the Bay Area an unprecedented, esteemed panel of international of Rugby Legends – past and present, male and female.

You’ll not be disappointed as our charismatic speakers take center stage to share their personal experiences in their own rise to Rugby fame.  They’ll be no shortage of fun, laughter and true Rugby camaraderie as we hear first hand how the game has impacted their lives for good, both personally and professionally.

With Rugby being the fastest growing team sport in the US, our sporting heroes will delve in to the past, present and future of the game and share their thoughts on the ‘how and why’ Rugby has gained so much popularity over the past 20 years, particularly here in the United States. We’ll learn what to expect as the sport gains further traction and how the rise of Rugby will have a giant impact on both the business environment and the sports scene, comparing it to the majors of the NFL, NBA and MLB. We’ll ask for their insights on what’s needed to elevate Rugby to the next level in the USA; also, how Rugby is harnessing a “Sports for Good” philosophy in activating youth participation, development and positively impacting our communities. A great example of this is the good work being done by our event partner, Play Rugby USA, who in 2015 is celebrating a decade of “Developing Youth through Rugby”

Finally, we’ll learn of who to watch out for in the RWC and in Rio de Janeiro next year where Rugby 7’s will make its Olympic debut. It’s going to be a great event!

Co-Moderators:
Mark Griffin, MBE – CEO/Founder, Play Rugby USA
Tony Ridnell, former USA Eagle

Panelists:
Gavin Hastings OBE, Former Scotland and British & Irish Lions Captain

Jeremy Guscott MBE, Former England and British & Irish Lions Player
Paul Wallace, Former Ireland and British & Irish Lions Player
Dan Lyle, Former USA Eagles Captain and Executive Vice President, United World Sports/USA Sevens
Jack Clark, Former USA Eagles Coach and current Head Rugby Coach at UC Berkeley
Irene Gardner, USA Eagles Women’s current player