Virtual Rugby Academy Partners with Texas A&M University Rugby to Elevate Player Development

College Station, TX — August 20, 2025 — The Virtual Rugby Academy (VRA) is proud to announce a new partnership with Texas A&M University Rugby, bringing professional-level training and performance tools to one of the nation’s most tradition-rich collegiate rugby programs.

As part of the collaboration, Aggie rugby athletes will now have access to VRA’s cutting-edge platform, providing structured gym programs, skill development pathways, mental performance modules, and nutrition resources—all designed by international professionals and tailored for player growth.

A Legacy Program Meets Innovation

Founded in 1969, Texas A&M Rugby carries more than five decades of history, tradition, and alumni support through Old Maroon RFC. Under the leadership of Director of Rugby and Head Coach, Tui Osborne, the Aggies continue to build on their legacy while preparing for the upcoming National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) season, which includes a highly anticipated Friday Night Rugby showcase against Notre Dame later this fall.

“This partnership helps us accelerate the standards we expect at Texas A&M,” said Osborne. “The Virtual Rugby Academy gives our players pro-level clarity between sessions—what to work on, how to work on it, and how to measure improvement. It keeps development moving seven days a week and ensures our on-field time is maximized. The Aggies are excited to build something special with VRA.”

Elevating College Rugby

The partnership is built on a shared vision: empowering student-athletes to train, recover, and perform with the same systems used at the professional level. Through the Virtual Rugby Academy, Texas A&M players will gain access to:

• Pro-Level Skill Progressions – Position-specific tracks and drills designed by elite coaches and players.

• Strength & Conditioning Programs – Rugby-focused gym sessions and field conditioning plans.

• High-Performance Toolkit – Mental resilience strategies, nutrition plans, and recovery protocols.

• Film-Based Learning – Short, actionable video lessons and challenges to reinforce game decisions.

• Always-On Accountability – Tracking and feedback systems to support players between training sessions.

  
  

“Partnering with Texas A&M Rugby is a milestone for us,” said Graham Knoop, CEO and Founder of the Virtual Rugby Academy. “Walking into a classroom full of Aggie athletes and seeing their passion firsthand was inspiring. Our mission is to take that passion and translate it into measurable progress with pro-level tools. Texas A&M represents everything we believe in: tradition, ambition, and a relentless drive to improve.”

Looking Ahead

As Texas A&M prepares for another competitive NCR season, this partnership ensures that athletes are supported both on and off the field with the resources needed to compete at the highest level of collegiate rugby.

“College rugby is surging, and NCR’s competitive structure gives programs like Texas A&M a meaningful national runway,” added Knoop. “Our job is to complement that platform with a daily system that keeps players improving between whistles—so they arrive smarter, stronger, and more prepared when the big moments come.”

About Texas A&M Rugby

Established in 1969, Texas A&M Men’s Rugby is a student-led program that competes in the National Collegiate Rugby league. Supported by a strong alumni network through Old Maroon RFC, the Aggies continue to invest in player development and national competitiveness under the leadership of Director of Rugby and Head Coach, Tui Osborne.

About the Virtual Rugby Academy

The Virtual Rugby Academy is a global performance platform delivering professional-level coaching, gym and conditioning programs, skill development pathways, and mental performance tools to rugby athletes worldwide. Built in collaboration with international players, coaches, and performance experts, VRA is reshaping rugby development by offering “Pro Standards, On Demand.” for more info contact: info@virtualrugbyacademy.com