UMW Interim Director of Athletics Patrick Catullo named Tyler Stephens as the new head coach of UMW Men’s Rugby, pending final HR procedures. You can see the full press release here.

Tyler most recently was an assistant coach ans forwards coach for UMW. This will be his first head coaching position.

We had a chance to speak with Tyler, the conversation has been edited for readability.

MRAF:What are your expectations of the team for 2019?

T: My expectations for the team go beyond just on the pitch. Of course we want to win matches and make a real go at 7s this season and give our Futures side some great 15s matches. I’ve stressed to the players that we need to start taking ownership on and off the pitch.

MRAF: What is you vision for the spring, summer, fall?

T: One thing that will encompass all three of those time frames is fundraising!! The guys realize we have to fundraise to make some things happen and I have quite a few ideas I’d like to explore for this. Spring vision is to start a solid foundation as a coach with the team and the University. Summer goal is recruiting!!! We have been working very hard at this already now and it will continue into summer. The fall goal is to continue the success of the last two years, working hard against the strong teams in the conference and then working towards playoffs and nationals again.

MRAF:What challenges do you face as a first time head coach, especially moving from assistant to head coach and from colleague to supervisor of the other assistants?

T: The obvious challenge is doing the job. It’s vastly different from what I was doing as the assistant coach, but it’s not something I’m incapable of doing. My life currently consists of watching film, building practice plans, recruiting, and working with my other coaches towards a stronger club. Min left massive shoes to fill. He took the team to a whole new level in his years as head coach and that’s exactly what I want and expect to do.

MRAF: You’ve been around UMW Rugby for many years, what do you like about the program?

T: The rugby culture is really good here. I’ve always loved that about UMW Rugby. Times change, rules change, and goals change. Every time one of those changes comes about, this program conforms to those changes and then continues to grow for the better. You don’t always see that, so it’s really something special.

MRAF:What is the biggest way UMW can help you heading into 15’s season in the fall?

T: The biggest way UMW can help me is by supporting us and giving us opportunities to prove ourselves as students, players, and coaches.