Who We Are
USA Youth & High School Rugby (YHS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organized in Washington, D.C and an affiliate of USA Rugby. We are the sole Sanctioned Governing Body for all rugby for players aged 4–18 in the United States.
Our Core Purpose
Inspire a rugby revolution, establishing it as the premier, fun-filled, and safe youth sport that captivates players, families, and communities alike.
One million kids playing rugby by the USA Rugby World Cup in 2031 and 2033.
The Rugby Ethos
Rugby emphasizes unique values and sportsmanship, adhering not just to its Laws but their spirit. From schoolyards to the World Cup, it's a game of integrity and shared experience.
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Board of Directors
David played rugby for 45 plus years, mostly in New Zealand. David was the San Diego Mustangs President as well as Director of Rugby for Torrey Pines. David has previously served as President of SoCal Youth Rugby. Prior to becoming President, he sat on two SCYR’s Member Councils, the U8-U12 and Boys High School Competition Sub-Committees.
Jason Divine is the Executive Director of Rugby NorCal and has been involved with rugby for over 25 years. Coach Divine formally coached at Sacramento State and Granite Bay. Coach Divine started playing rugby in high school at the Cougar Rugby Club and played wing with the USA U19s and at Sacramento State University.
Bill Stevens currently coaches Fort Wayne Men’s Rugby Club. Coach Stevens has passion for rugby and over 35 years of experience as a player and coach on a local, regional and international level and wish to help develop Youth Rugby to an elite level of operation.
Owen Power is the current President of Utah Youth Rugby and Chief Financial Officer for Traco Manufacturing, Inc. in Orem, UT.
Kat Aversano is a USA Level 300/ WR Level 2, and PCA Certified coach for NOVA WRFC and Fort Hunt Rugby. Coach Aversano is the Founder and Commissioner of the Chesapeake Rugby Conference (girls tackle) and the Girls Tackle Commissioner of Rugby Maryland. Coach Aversano is the Chair of both the Y&HS Nominations WG and the Girls Growth WG.
Ed is a North East Regional Rep for USA YHS.
Team
Giovanni brings 10+ years of experience in the sporting industry. Having held roles that include working for Football.com, the Australian Open, San Diego State and Club Corps leading Country Club, the multidimensional perspective brings a different outlook to his role as Executive Director of the organization.
On a personal front, Giovanni was born and raised in South Africa, but has since become a citizen of the United States. His weekends are spent either watching sports or playing sports with his wife, Roxanne, and two kids Siena and Capri.
With a family history in Australian Rugby, a professional background in project management, executive administration and operations, Sarah provides key support to the USA YHS members, clubs and SYROs throughout their engagement with the Youth and High School council.
For any questions regarding registration, navigating the Rugby Xplorer platform, accreditations or general inquiries, please contact Sarah: sarah.dunbar@usayhsrugby.org
Governing Body Partners
Operational Partners
