"Within the Queens men's rugby program, we believe success is measured both on the field and in the classroom," says Head Coach Tyree Reed. Heading into a new school year next week, the team has set a high bar for themselves: a program-record 3.45 team GPA in the spring, a 3.40 cumulative GPA for the year, eight players who posted a 4.0, including one fifth-year student who held a 4.0 all year, and 13 players above a 3.5.
John Steel '27 has grown through this mindset. "Being a Queens student-athlete has made me more disciplined, adaptable, and confident," he says. "Balancing athletics, academics, work, and other responsibilities has pushed me to become more organized and intentional with my time."
Reed builds that discipline into the program on purpose, around three things: time management, accountability, and communication. Coaches help players plan around academic responsibilities, reach out to professors when travel creates a conflict, and connect players with academic support resources when they need it. Weekly check-ins and a shared team calendar keep rugby and coursework on the same page, so nothing falls through the cracks.
Steel feels the effects of the intentional balance crafted by his coaches in his student journey. "My coaches and teammates have helped create an environment where academics are treated as a priority alongside rugby," he says. "The program has encouraged us to manage our time well, communicate early when challenges arise, and hold each other accountable in the classroom as well as on the field."
For Emile van Dyk '28 the culture they have built is meaningful, especially in his area of study. "As a Finance major, I understand the importance of maintaining strong academic performance while contributing positively to the team," he says. Each year, the team sets its own GPA goal together. "If someone needs help with classes, everyone is open to helping each other," he adds.
Generosity and hard work shapes the experience for Men's Rugby; the resources that make their experience possible are directly influenced by the support provided to them.
Get Involved This Year
This kind of support doesn't happen without a community behind it. Royal Ralliers, our new way for fans, families, and alumni to show up for the Royals jersey, launches this fall: cheer from the stands, share a post, or start a conversation with a fellow fan. Learn more and sign up today.
We also invite you to mark your calendars for October 2-9, when the Queens Athletics community joins together in support of our student-athletes for Investing In Champions, the annual week of giving. Early giving starts now, and your support unlocks benefit tiers and Royals Club membership. If you're interested in building momentum and increasing the impact of your gift, reach out to us at athletics@queens.edu to set up a giving challenge.
