SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Life University Rugby Programs once again saw two of their own recognized on one of collegiate rugby's biggest stages as James Rose and Hattie Greenwood were named the 2026 Prusmack Award winners at this year's US Rugby Foundation Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

The annual celebration honored the history of rugby in the United States while recognizing some of the sport's most influential figures and outstanding performers. Among those celebrated were Rose and Greenwood, who earned the prestigious Prusmack Award as the nation's top male and female collegiate 7s rugby players.

The Prusmack Award honors the legacy of A. Jon Prusmack, whose vision and dedication helped establish rugby sevens as a major force in the United States. Created by the US Rugby Foundation, the award is presented annually to the best male and female collegiate 7s players in the country.

For James Rose, rugby has been a part of life for as long as he can remember. A native of Green Bay, Wisconsin, Rose was introduced to the game through his father, who both played and coached rugby. He began his journey in flag rugby with Green Bay Youth Rugby before advancing to tackle rugby in middle school, developing a lifelong passion for the sport.

Rose continued his career with the Leprechauns Rugby Club, where he played under his father's guidance and served as team captain for two seasons. During his time there, he helped lead the program to four consecutive state tournament appearances. A gifted multi-sport athlete, Rose also competed in wrestling for more than eight years, earning a team state championship, while remaining active in Future Farmers of America and receiving his Greenhand Award.

His success extended well beyond the local level. Rose captained the Wisconsin Badger Selects and gained national exposure in both 7s and 15s competition. He also played 7s for the Rebels, helping the program capture championships at both NAIs and Bloodfest. His representative career included back-to-back years with the Eagle Impact Rugby Academy (EIRA), where he toured internationally against Portugal and Spain, and represented the United States at the U18 Global Youth 7s Tournament in New Zealand. Throughout his rugby journey, Rose showcased his versatility, playing scrum-half, fly-half, fullback, wing, and center.

Now pursuing a degree in Exercise Science at Life University, Rose has quickly become a key contributor for the Running Eagles. After making an immediate impact as a freshman, he played a pivotal role during his sophomore season, leading Life University in tries at the CRAA 7s National Championships and helping guide the Running Eagles to a national title.

Away from competition, Rose has remained committed to growing the sport. He has coached flag rugby since the eighth grade and participated in community service efforts through the Green Bay rugby community. EIRA Director Salty Thompson praised Rose's character, describing him as a humble and hardworking young man who worked two jobs to help pay for rugby and save for college while continuing to fund his own education.

Looking toward the future, Rose hopes to represent the United States as an Eagle, compete in the 2028 Olympic cycle, win additional national championships with Life University, and pursue opportunities in Major League Rugby and Premier Rugby Sevens before eventually giving back to the sport as a coach.

On the women's side, Hattie Greenwood's path to rugby was anything but traditional. Raised in the countryside as the only daughter among five children, Greenwood learned early how to compete. Whether tending livestock, working as a cowgirl on neighboring ranches, competing in rodeo events, or playing football with her brothers, she developed the toughness and resilience that would later define her rugby career.

Unlike many rugby standouts, Greenwood did not come from a rugby family. Her mother was a collegiate softball player, while her father competed as a collegiate wrestler. Her athletic journey began as a competitive gymnast before transitioning to track and field as a hurdler and sprinter. Everything changed in the eighth grade when a cousin introduced her to rugby, a sport she immediately embraced.

Now in her fourth year at Life University and completing a master's degree in Positive Psychology, Greenwood has become one of the most influential leaders within the women's rugby program. During this season's CRAA 7s National Championships, Life University faced adversity after two key players were sidelined by injuries. Greenwood responded by taking command as captain, leading by example on both sides of the ball while consistently creating opportunities for her teammates. Her leadership, resilience, and performance proved instrumental in carrying the Running Eagles to another national championship.

Off the pitch, Greenwood prefers a quieter lifestyle centered around her faith. She credits her Christian beliefs as the foundation of her life and views rugby as an opportunity to positively impact those around her. Throughout her journey, she has sought to use the platform the game provides to demonstrate leadership, serve others, and share her faith with teammates, opponents, and community members alike.

Together, Rose and Greenwood represent the excellence of Life University Rugby both on and off the field. Their accomplishments, leadership, and commitment to serving others have made them worthy recipients of the 2026 Prusmack Award, further solidifying Life University's reputation as one of the premier collegiate rugby programs in the nation.