About Us
The US Academy of Rugby, an organization, is dedicated to the advancement of rugby throughout the USA. Our mission is to foster the growth of the sport by organizing biannual camps held at various locations nationwide.
With the 2031 Rugby World Cup coming to the USA as the host nation, US Academy of Rugby is teaming up with USA Rugby to aid in developing new players to represent the national team.
These camps serve as immersive experiences designed to enhance participants' skills, knowledge, and passion for rugby. Led by current and retired USA Eagles and Major League Rugby (MLR) players, our coaching staff provides first hand insight, demonstrating that the dream of playing rugby is attainable.
Aligned with the mindset and style of the USA Eagles, our program facilitates seamless integration for players into the national team setup if selected. Targeting age groups from under 14 to under 18, we aim to cultivate talent from grassroots levels upward.
A distinguishing feature of our academy is our extensive use of data analysis, incorporating GPS data, photos, videos, and more. This data-driven approach eliminates biases in coaching, allowing players to focus on strategic areas for personal growth.
Moreover, our commitment to accessibility is reflected in our choice of local camp locations, ensuring that more students and players have convenient access without the need for extensive travel. This approach fosters greater involvement from parents and families, enriching the overall experience for all involved.
Mission
At the US Academy of Rugby, our mission is to foster a culture of excellence, integrity, and teamwork through the pursuit of athletic and personal growth. We are dedicated to providing unparalleled coaching, training, data and support to aspiring rugby athletes, empowering them to reach their full potential on and off the field. With a commitment to inclusivity, sportsmanship, and respect, we aim to cultivate a community where passion for the game thrives and lifelong values are instilled. Together, we strive to shape the future of rugby by developing confident, disciplined, and resilient individuals who embody the spirit of the sport and make a positive impact on society.
Vision
The US Academy of Rugby envisions a future where rugby is not just a sport, but a way of life. We aspire to be the premier destination for rugby development in the United States, recognized for our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. Our vision is to produce world-class athletes who not only dominate on the field but also serve as ambassadors for the values of integrity, inclusivity, respect, and teamwork. Through cutting-edge training programs, facilities, technology & data and a supportive community, we aim to elevate the standard of rugby in the nation and inspire generations of athletes to dream big and achieve greatness. Together, we are shaping a future where the passion for rugby knows no bounds, and the spirit of the game unites people from all walks of life. We want team USA to be a dominant force at RWC 2031 and beyond.
Who Are We
Paul Mullen
Wade Bricknell
Paul Mullen
Paul Mullen, a seasoned professional rugby player, currently lends his talents to USA Rugby and the Utah Warriors as a formidable tighthead prop. With his debut cap for the USA in June 2018, Paul has amassed an impressive 32 international caps and notably competed in the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan. Eagerly eyeing the future, he harbors
Paul Mullen, a seasoned professional rugby player, currently lends his talents to USA Rugby and the Utah Warriors as a formidable tighthead prop. With his debut cap for the USA in June 2018, Paul has amassed an impressive 32 international caps and notably competed in the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan. Eagerly eyeing the future, he harbors aspirations of representing the USA once again at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Originally hailing from Ireland, Paul's rugby journey began with stints at Munster U18, U19, U20, and Ireland U19 levels. His pursuit of higher education led him to the United States in 2011, where he enrolled at Texas A&M University to study Marine Engineering. During his collegiate years, Paul proudly donned the USA jersey at the Junior Rugby World Trophy in 2011, held in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Upon completing his Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering in 2015 and obtaining a Masters of Marine Resources Management in 2018, Paul made the bold decision to defer his engineering career and pursue his lifelong dream of professional rugby. Since his graduation, he has graced the rosters of esteemed rugby clubs including the Houston Sabercats, San Diego Legion, Newcastle Falcons (UK), Utah Warriors, and, of course, USA Rugby.
Looking ahead, Paul envisions a post-rugby career dedicated to nurturing the growth of the sport in the USA. With a keen eye on the horizon, he aims to contribute to the nation's rugby development efforts, aspiring to see the USA Rugby team excel on the global stage at the 2031 Rugby World Cup.
Paul oversees Coaching, Technical & Strategy for the players and coaches at the Academy
Rick Hales
Wade Bricknell
Paul Mullen
Rick, a native of South Jordan, Utah, was introduced to rugby at age 15 by his uncle, a coach for the Highland Rugby team. Excelling in the sport, he played wing and fullback for Highland Rugby throughout high school, contributing to two USA High School National Championships during his tenure on the varsity squad. Following high school,
Rick, a native of South Jordan, Utah, was introduced to rugby at age 15 by his uncle, a coach for the Highland Rugby team. Excelling in the sport, he played wing and fullback for Highland Rugby throughout high school, contributing to two USA High School National Championships during his tenure on the varsity squad. Following high school, Rick joined the University of Utah rugby team for a season before pursuing higher education at Westminster College in Salt Lake City. Concurrently, he participated in Army ROTC at the University of Utah, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Finance with a minor in Military Science.
In 2017, he was invited to coach with the Herriman Rugby Club in Herriman, Utah. Starting with coaching roles for the U8, U10, and U12 summer 7s teams, Rick has spent the last five years as the backs coach for the 7/8 team, guiding them to consecutive state titles for the first time in the club's history. His enduring love and passion for rugby shine through in both his professional and coaching endeavors.
Rick oversees Operations & Planning in the Academy and it's locations
Wade Bricknell
Wade Bricknell
Wade Bricknell
Hailing from South Africa, Wade's professional journey spans across a spectrum of roles, from sales positions to VP and board appointments, across both established corporations and startups. Notably, he played a role in preparing soccer stadiums for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup. A passionate rugby enthusiast, Wade played the sport durin
Hailing from South Africa, Wade's professional journey spans across a spectrum of roles, from sales positions to VP and board appointments, across both established corporations and startups. Notably, he played a role in preparing soccer stadiums for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup. A passionate rugby enthusiast, Wade played the sport during his time at Glenwood High School and later at Roodepoort Rugby Club. He harbors a fervent desire to elevate rugby's presence in the USA, aspiring to contribute to its journey towards becoming a Tier 1 rugby nation.
Beyond his professional and rugby endeavors, Wade is a published photographer, adept at encapsulating life's precious moments through his lens. Actively involved with the local men's professional rugby team and the School boy organization at Mountain Ridge High School, he enjoys a broad network across various rugby organizations, from USA Rugby to the Utah Warriors in Major League Rugby, among others. This extensive network has facilitated the realization of his vision for the US Academy of Rugby.
Wade is the Founder of US Academy of Rugby and is its President & CEO
