Building the Future: Recap of the 2026 Iowa Rugby Foundation Strategic Meeting
On January 24th, the heart of Iowa Rugby beat a little louder in Chicago. Officers and Board members of the Iowa Rugby Foundation traveled from across the country to come together for the foundation's annual strategic planning meeting. It was more than just a business session, it was a homecoming. A chance to reconnect, reminisce on our storied past, and ignite the engine for what comes next.
The energy in the room was palpable. Looking around at the faces representing decades of Iowa Rugby, the conversations remained grounded in a single, shared commitment: ensuring the long-term success of the program we all call home.
A Refreshed Vision: Our Guiding Values
As the landscape of collegiate rugby evolves, so must our leadership. During the meeting, the board refreshed our guiding values to better reflect our mission for 2026 and beyond. These four pillars now shape every decision, from financial planning to game-day support:
Mentorship: Actively supporting players and alumni across generations to bridge the gap between "then" and "now."
Stewardship: Providing responsible, transparent leadership for the program and its vital resources.
Culture: Protecting the unique spirit, grit, and brotherhood that makes Iowa Rugby special.
Community: Strengthening our ties both on the pitch and within the broader alumni network through engagement opportunities to connect.
2026 Calendar: Save the Dates!
The next year is shaping up to be one of the most significant in our history. We have four major alumni gatherings on the horizon that you won't want to miss:
Feb 28: Hawkeye Classic 7s Tournament
June 26: Golf Outing in Pleasant Valley
June 27: Block City 7s
October: 60th Anniversary Alumni Weekend*
*Note on the 60th: We are currently finalizing dates for the 60th Anniversary celebration. This event will be the cornerstone of the year, bringing together six decades of Hawkeye ruggers to celebrate our legacy and invest in the success of the next sixty years.
Get Involved: There is a Role for Everyone
The Iowa Rugby Foundation is only as strong as its alumni base. None of this works without you. Whether you have the capacity to give one hour a month or one weekend a year, your involvement is the lifeblood of this organization.
In the coming weeks, we will be reaching out with specific opportunities to serve on committees, help organize events, or provide behind-the-scenes support. Whether you graduated last year or forty years ago, there is a seat at the table for you.
Let’s keep the momentum going. Go Hawks!
