Revise the collegiate eligibility rules to accommodate student-veterans

The Issue

Student-veterans are filling up classrooms in colleges across the nation, and are encouraged to participate in activities that will yield meaningful relationships. Currently, USA Rugby's eligibility rules limit student-veterans from participation by enforcing a strict five-year eligibility window that nearly always renders student-veterans ineligible to play. This prevents an emerging and important pool of rugby players from enjoying the college experience that they have definitely earned. Sign this petition to support the following addendum to USA Rugby Rule 4.3.2:

4.3.2.a

If a student-athlete enlists for Active Duty during any portion of their five (5) Academic Years of eligibility, they will receive an additional year of eligibility for each year of Active Duty service completed, assuming they have not played collegiately at any military acadamy or All-Service level team.

This petition had 30,484 supporters

The Issue

Student-veterans are filling up classrooms in colleges across the nation, and are encouraged to participate in activities that will yield meaningful relationships. Currently, USA Rugby's eligibility rules limit student-veterans from participation by enforcing a strict five-year eligibility window that nearly always renders student-veterans ineligible to play. This prevents an emerging and important pool of rugby players from enjoying the college experience that they have definitely earned. Sign this petition to support the following addendum to USA Rugby Rule 4.3.2:

4.3.2.a

If a student-athlete enlists for Active Duty during any portion of their five (5) Academic Years of eligibility, they will receive an additional year of eligibility for each year of Active Duty service completed, assuming they have not played collegiately at any military acadamy or All-Service level team.

The Decision Makers

Nigel Melville
Nigel Melville
CEO, USA Rugby

Petition Updates