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I was disappointed to find out that the California Golden Bears, possibly the most successful rugby team in the world over the last 3 decades, is in severe danger of being shut down this year. Considering the push for the development of collegiate rugby in the USA this is a very unfortunate situation.
Some of you might remember the blog article I posted about the team a few years ago but, for those that don't, the University of California has a rich rugby history stretching back to 1882. This history includes attracting crowds of up to 26 000 during the period between 1906 and 1913 when Californian universities switched from American football to rugby, hosting the first ever touring All Blacks side in 1906, and in later years drew 8-8 with Queensland during a tour of Australia and New Zealand.
More recently they have amassed an incredible record of 25 collegiate National Championships in 31 seasons, making them the most successful team in American college sports. They have beaten the USA Super League champions in recent years and contributed a number of players to the national team, making them possibly the greatest rugby team in the country. They are considered to be an important part of the culture at the university and the on-going recognition they get from the far more famous football team is evidence of this.
Unfortunately university politics have meant that the University of California is looking to cut rugby from its athletics program next season, potentially putting an end to one of the great dynasties in world rugby.
Here is a link for those interested in the story: http://savecalvarsityrugby.com/