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Rugby (Men's/Women's)
Head Coach Tony Brown Email x7804
Assistant Coach Mark Griffiths   x7804

Head Coach Tony Brown

men's coach In 1995, Tony Brown became the first full-time rugby coach in Vassar's history. Under his stewardship, he has increased squad size while guiding the Brewers to several playoff appearances.

The 2008-09 season marks Brown's 14th year at Vassar. The men's team is 140-93-8 (.598). They have qualified for the Northeast Playoffs eight times, won three Met. NY Championships and three Spring Tournament titles.

Brown moved to the United States in 1984 having played at St. Luke's College, Exeter and Wasps. In the UK he represented Southern Universities (UAU) and played for the invitation side Public School Wanderers. In the USA he played for Northern Virginia Rugby Football Club and was selected to the 1985 Potomac Rugby Union select side comprised of players from the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Brown retired from playing in 1986.

From 1988-95, Brown coached the George Mason University men's team in Fairfax, Virginia and compiled a 110-52-6 overall record (.637). Brown's teams beat several eastern powers including Army, Navy, and Penn State as well as twice winning the St. Patrick's Day Tournament and finishing as runner-up at the Cherry Blossom, West Virginia University, and Commonwealth Cup tournaments. GMU finished the 1995 season ranked No. 3 in the East coast.

Brown also coaches the women's program at Vassar and has worked as a Staff Coach with the USA U19 Boys program. He is a USA Rugby Coaching Development Program Leader and assists the NRU Uunder 23 Women's Select Side.

Athletic Philosophy

Vassar rugby exists to promote the sport of rugby union and to allow each student-athlete the opportunity to develop to their full potential in so far as their physical, mental, and emotional limitations allow. Each player is encouraged to enjoy the game and extend their abilities.

Vassar Athletics

The administration's support for the sport of rugby union is both responsible and correct for it shows respect for the students wishes and affords them an educational environment.