NORTH CANTON, Ohio — Notre Dame College's rugby programs have found a new home at Walsh University following NDC's recent announcement of the school closing at the end of this semester.
After an institutional search, Walsh University in North Canton announced on Tuesday that the players and coaching staff of the Notre Dame College men’s and women’s rugby teams have declared the school as the place they intend to make their new home.
Despite not having a rugby program, Walsh University worked alongside Notre Dame College Director of Rugby Operations Jason Fox to assess the feasibility of creating a team. Walsh University was compelled to create teams after seeing the dedication and desire of the team to stay together.
“I cannot express enough how happy we are to find a home at Walsh University as a Rugby program,” said Fox. “For Walsh University to take two entire rugby programs looking for a home is awesome! We hope to make Walsh proud!”
As of April 2, 42 members of the men’s team and 15 members of the women’s team have applied to Walsh University. Current members of the Notre Dame College rugby teams signed letters of commitment at a special signing ceremony on Tuesday in South Euclid.
In recent years, Notre Dame College's rugby teams have competed in Division I in the Rugby East conference, considered by many as the top collegiate rugby conference in the country.
As a result of the move to Walsh University, the school has designated the grass fields on the north side of the Klekotka Tennis Complex as the area for the new rugby teams to practice and compete.
“We are thrilled to welcome all Notre Dame College students to Walsh University,” said Walsh University President Tim Collins. “We extend our warmest welcome to them, offering our support and encouragement as they navigate this transition, guided by the values of community and compassion ingrained in our Catholic mission.”
The announcement of Notre Dame's closure came on Feb. 29, after months of speculation that the school would close at the end of the semester.
Walsh University was one of nine colleges and universities that partnered with Notre Dame College to help current students in good standing continue their college careers.
University officials say that after announcing their commitment to assist NDC students, roughly 220 Notre Dame students have visited campus and 130 have applied.
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