Gonzaga fields four rugby teams - Varsity Purple, Varsity Black (developmental varsity team), Junior Varsity and Freshman with over 170 players participating in the program.

 

The history of rugby at Gonzaga dates back to the fall of 1987 when a few students, including current Freshman Head Coach Josh Brady (’90), formed a club called “Eye Street Rugby” and began playing in the Potomac Rugby Union high school division the spring of 1988.  

 

Under Head Coach Peter Baggetta, Varsity Purple has developed into one of the most successful rugby teams in the country, making the final four of the National Championship tournament 15 straight years since 2009, and winning six National Championships since 2014. The team won its second straight and sixth National Championship in program history in 2024.

 

Gonzaga Rugby has an annual tradition of a spring break tour in which 60-80 players get the opportunity to travel to other countries and experience the rugby culture as well as develop as both rugby players and a team. Past tours have been to the Cayman Islands (2002), England and Wales (2001, 03), Ireland (2001, 03, 06), France (2008, 23), Spain (2008, 12, 16), Argentina (2004, 05, 07, 09, 11, 13, 18, 24), Uruguay (2004, 09, 13), Portugal (2012, 19), Italy (2010, 14, 17, 25), Chile (2015), and British Columbia (2022).

Gonzaga Rugby's season begins in late January and runs through May. The 2025 Eagles look forward to once again playing one of the most competitive schedules in the country, with nationally ranked Top 25 teams throughout the schedule. On this page, you'll find the Varsity Purple's schedule and roster, as well as results after each match. Go Gonzaga!