Brown Recognized As USA Rugby Male College Coach of the Year

HOUSTON – After leading the Vassar College women's rugby team to its first-ever National Championship in 2018, Head Coach Tony Brown has been named the USA Rugby Male College Coach of the Year. The Brewer women went undefeated this season, capped by their 50-13 victory over Winona State in the National Championship Game. "I first want to recognize the incredible job that (Assistant Coach) Mark Griffiths has done this and every year," Brown said. "His Premiership experience allied to a clear vision and buy-in from the players has been critical to our success. "The support from Vassar Athletics, the College administration and our alumnae/i has also been a driving force. All 38 players on the squad contributed in some manner and deserve huge credit, as well." Brown guided the women's squad to a perfect 15-0 record this season. The Brewers reached the Final Four at the USA Rugby Fall Nationals for the fourth consecutive time, and qualified for their second straight National Championship Game after defeating Coast Guard 43-26 in the semifinals. In the National Championship Game, Vassar scored 33 unanswered points in the second half against defending champion Winona State to pull away for a 50-13 victory and the title. It was the first national team title in any sport in Vassar history. On the men's side, meanwhile, the Brewers notched a 4-2 record during the fall campaign. Brown has been the coach of both teams since 1995, amassing 749 total wins between the two squads in that time. He was presented with the award during USA Rugby's National Development Summit Awards Dinner on Jan. 12.