National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) today announced the launch of its prestigious Men’s and Women’s Players of the Year Awards, honoring the top collegiate players across all divisions. This new annual recognition program mirrors the structure of the NCAA's most respected collegiate honors, providing stronger national recognition for rugby's elite talent.
The awards will recognize the best male and female player in each of NCR's eight primary divisions: Division I, Division I-AA, Division II, and Division III for both Men and Women. The selection process will focus on players that have demonstrated the most exceptional performance throughout the regular season. This comprehensive structure ensures that exceptional talent is showcased and celebrated across all levels of collegiate competition.
"The launch of the Players of the Year Awards is a critical step in honoring the dedication and quality of talent within college rugby," said NCR CEO Jeremy Treece. "This award structure provides student-athletes with the high-level honors they deserve. By celebrating players across all eight divisions, we will showcase the incredible talent that exists at all levels of our game. We look forward to celebrating our winners in the new year."
A shortlist of finalists for each division will be announced around the Men’s and Women’s National Championship weekends in Houston. The Women’s Championship weekend will be held on December 6-7 followed by the Men’s Championship weekend on December 12-14.
A distinguished panel of rugby administrators, competition officials, and coaches will vote on each division, narrowing the shortlists to the Players of the Year. The winners will be formally announced in January, with many receiving their national awards during NCR’s men’s and women’s All-Star events in Atlanta.
