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Rugby United New York have confirmed the resignation of Greg McWilliams as Head Coach with immediate effect for personal reasons. The news comes as a shock with the start of the 2021 Major League Rugby season two weeks away.
A statement from McWilliams released by the club reads as follows:
“I have taken the extremely difficult decision to stay away as Head Coach of Rugby United New York in order to support my wife Sarah as we continue to battle through some significant health issues. It’s time for me to put my family first. One thing the last year living during a global pandemic has taught all of us is just how important family is.
“I can’t speak highly enough of the support we continue to receive from the rugby community here in the US and abroad. It is something we will never forget.
“To the owners, the staff, and the special player group, I want to thank you all for the endless support. We have assembled a gifted squad of great men that will do New York proud, and I am sure will be competing at the business end of the season. Our family looks forward to cheering on Rugby United New York throughout this and many more MLR seasons to come.”
No replacement has been named though RUNY Chairman Guy Bolton has indicated that a search for a new Head Coach has already begun. Forwards Coach Marty Veale, formerly Head Coach of Old Blue, looms as the most likely candidate to lead in the interim.
McWilliams is a hugely popular figure in American rugby circles and his loss will be significant. He was formally appointed to the Head Coach role in September 2019, taking over from Mike Tolkin. McWilliams has also served as Assistant Coach of the US Eagles under Gary Gold since 2017.
