UC Santa Cruz

In this episode of the Rugby NorCal Podcast, we spotlight the University of California, Santa Cruz Rugby program and what makes it one of the most compelling D1A club rugby programs in the country.UCSC Rugby competes weekly against varsity powerhouses while maintaining a gritty, athlete-led culture rooted in accountability, adaptability, and academic excellence. The discussion covers the program’s identity, recruiting standards, and long-term development model for student-athletes.What You’ll Learn:What it means to compete at the D1A level as a club programThe “Skill, Systems, Mindset” coaching philosophy and how it develops versatile, decision-making playersHow UCSC supports late-entry rugby athletes and long-term developmentThe impact of the Black and Gold Society, UCSC Rugby’s alumni network providing funding and career mentorshipAcademic and rugby expectations for prospective student-athletes (3.5+ GPA, 16–20 hrs/week rugby commitment)Positions currently being recruited for D1A competitionFeatured Player Pathway:Former Slug Jackson Zabierek shares how UCSC helped him transition from a high-school football player into a complete rugby athlete, ultimately reaching Major League Rugby with the Chicago Hounds. Recruiting Information:Prospective players are encouraged to:Create a profile on Next Phase RugbyEmail UCSC Rugby staff with “Rugby” in the subject lineVisit slugrugby.comThis episode is a must-listen for high-academic student-athletes, parents, coaches, and alumni interested in collegiate rugby pathways and sustainable program building. worldrugbyshop.comrugbynorcal.orggoffrugbyreport.com