Life University Athletics

MARIETTA, Ga. ---- Life University women's rugby coach Rosalind Chou has announced that the 2021-22 season will be her final year at Life U, as she has accepted a role both teaching and coaching at Brown University, the Ivy League institution in Rhode Island.
 
"Ros has been committed to Life University and the development of our women's rugby student-athletes since day one of the program," Director of Athletics Jayme Pendergast stated. "To build something from scratch is truly one of the toughest jobs but the most rewarding of experiences. We have enjoyed much institutional success due to her leadership and the talents of the student-athletes that she recruited to Life U. Coach Chou has expected nothing less than the highest of standards and operated with the utmost class as she represented Life University.  It's been a joy to work with her, learn from her, and see the athletic, academic, and personal growth of the student-athletes she has coached. I know she will find success at Brown and we wish her the very best.  Ros leaves Life U with a nationally recognized rugby brand and we will look for our next leader to continue to elevate our women's rugby program."
 
Chou was instrumental in the success and national recognition of the program at Life University, as she started the program eight years ago. During her tenure, she has elevated the Life U women's rugby team to now global recognition with countless members of the team being represented on the USA National Team in both 7s and 15s.
 
As a whole, she has led 42 USA Rugby D1 Elite All-Americans with three consecutive appearances in the National Championship. Chou also brought home the university's second ever 7s National Championship at the Collegiate Rugby Championship in 2016. Without a single losing season in the eight year history and four 20 or more win seasons, she entered the year with a 147-28 overall record.
 
This season, the Running Eagles are out to a 9-3 start after the reserve squad captured the NCR Division I National Championship. The Spring will focus on 7s tournaments, where the Running Eagles have found their strength in recent years, as well as the D1 Elite 15s Championship. "To say that this opportunity has been life changing is an understatement," Chou claimed. "I was gifted the opportunity to start a new varsity program from scratch at the most supportive institution of higher education for the sport of rugby in the United States. The respect for the student-athletes, autonomy for individuals to grow, and enthusiasm for the team is remarkable. I am filled with gratitude and have been honored to call this my home."
 
Chou expressed nothing but positives over the growth of the program saying, "I am gleaming with pride for what's been accomplished in my eight years. We grew from a team of eighteen to a roster of over fifty and have become one of the most successful rugby programs in the country. We are producing graduates who represent not only the United States, but also countries across the globe. Additionally, we are graduating young adults who are moving on to successful careers with a Life University degree. I could not be prouder of all the student-athletes and coaches who have worn the Life University Running Eagles crest across their chest. I know my successor will carry the torch and be gifted an amazing roster of student-athletes at an institution that is in love with the sport of rugby."
 
Pendergast will open the national search immediately for the program's successor stating, "I am committed to finding a coach that will continue to elevate our women's rugby program in national standings and stature, but to do so with a strong focus on developing the student-athletes academically and as people."
 
Interested candidates can email Pendergast at Jayme.Pendergast@life.edu