Life University Athletics

Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, head coach Colton Cariaga first came to Life University as a student-athlete, having earned degrees in Business Administration and Coaching Psychology. Cariaga was a member of the rugby team and served as captain from 2010-2013. In his role as captain, Cariaga led LIFE to two national championship victories (2011, 2013) and achieved all American honors twice (2012, 2013).
 
After his time as a student-athlete at LIFE, Cariaga accepted a position to coach at Blackrock College in Dublin, Ireland. Both of Cariaga’s Blackrock teams were successful in winning their respective provincial cup championships (2014). Cariaga also continued his playing career with Trinity Rugby in the All-Ireland League (2013-2014).
 
Cariaga returned to LIFE in 2014 as an assistant coach. From 2014-2017, Cariaga was part of a staff whose team achieved mid-south conference championships (2015, 2016, 2017), a national championship (2016), and produced 10 all Americans. Cariaga has also served as head 7s coach since 2016, tying a team best second place finish in 2017.
 
During his time as an assistant coach, Cariaga also continued his playing career, making several appearances for the USA Selects ahead of the 2015 Rugby World Cup and the USA Falcons ahead of the 2016 Olympic Games. Cariaga retired from playing competitive rugby in 2017.
 
After the 2016-2017 season, Cariaga accepted the position of Head Coach. In his first season in the role, the Running Eagles went 14-0 en route to a National Championship victory over Cal.
 
In addition to his work with Life University, Cariaga has been an assistant with the USA Under 20s National Team, currently sits on the D1A executive committee, maintains the role of commissioner of the Mid-South Collegiate Rugby Conference, and actively serves on the board for Atlanta Youth Rugby.