National Collegiate Rugby is proud to recognize Max Bennett, Head Coach of Central Oregon Community College Men’s Rugby, as our October Coach of the Month, an exceptional builder, motivator, and steward of one of the nation’s few community college rugby programs.
A fourth-generation Central Oregonian and Summit High School graduate, Max’s roots in the region run deep. Rugby runs even deeper. He is the nephew of legendary coach Woody Bennett, who led Oregon State for more than a decade and founded the COCC rugby program in 2012. Max was part of that first Bobcats squad, serving as the club’s inaugural captain before continuing his career at Pepperdine University as a lock.
When Max returned to COCC as Assistant Coach in 2023, the program was still reeling from the effects of the pandemic. Numbers were nearly gone, continuity was broken, and one of the Northwest’s proudest community college rugby programs was on the brink. When he stepped in as Head Coach in 2024, he inherited a team on life support, but within a year, he rebuilt it into one of the most compelling stories in small-college rugby.
This fall, COCC fielded a 33-man roster and finished 4–2, including statement wins over larger, well-resourced universities like Western Oregon. Players describe Max as “the most committed coach I’ve ever had,” a tireless recruiter, and a culture-builder who transforms complete beginners into confident, competitive athletes. Many credit him with making their transition to college seamless, instilling discipline and belonging, and setting standards rooted in respect, accountability, and joy for the game.
Max’s passion is contagious, his work ethic unmatched, and his belief in the potential of community college rugby unwavering. By resurrecting a nearly dormant program, and honoring his uncle’s legacy, he has restored rugby to Central Oregon and built a home where players feel valued, challenged, and proud to wear the Bobcat jersey.
Congratulations to Coach Max Bennett, a true leader and ambassador for the sport.