Tennessee Tech University’s rugby team is making waves, and the excitement was palpable during the Board of Trustees meeting on June 26, 2025. The team, which recently reached the national championship, showcased its journey and the pivotal role of their new coach, a former professional player from Tonga.

Lane Travis, a junior majoring in environmental agriscience, and Todd Harris, studying exercise science, shared their experiences with the board. They highlighted the challenges of self-coaching in previous years and the transformative impact of their new coach, who also trains the U.S. Marine Corps rugby team. “We just had a love for the sport,” Travis explained, emphasizing their dedication despite past coaching instability.

Caleb Dunlap, a PhD student in electrical engineering, added that the team’s recent success stems from a combination of hard work and the new coaching approach. “We’ve had experience against pro teams and gotten a little bit of training with him as well,” he noted, showcasing the team’s competitive edge.

The students also praised Tennessee Tech for its supportive environment, with Dunlap stating, “I chose Tech because it was great in engineering.” Their enthusiasm for the university was evident, as they encouraged prospective students to consider Tech for its strong job placement rates and supportive faculty.

The board members were impressed by the students' commitment to both their studies and the sport, with one member recalling the rugby team’s history dating back to 1977, co-founded by a professor from the agriculture department. This connection to the university's roots underscored the ongoing legacy of the rugby program.

As the meeting wrapped up, the board recognized the significance of the rugby team’s achievements and the positive representation of Tennessee Tech, leaving attendees eager to see what the future holds for these dedicated athletes.