On Thursday, Greg McWilliams officially stepped down as New York City’s head coach in Major League Rugby (MLR). He cited reasons including significant health issues within his family.
Rugby United New York head coach steps down
Greg McWilliams resigns for personal reasons
March 04, 2021 – Press Release
Rugby United New York is sad to announce Greg McWilliams, head coach has resigned for personal reasons. pic.twitter.com/qE58XfBfNY
— Rugby United New York (@rugbyunitedny) March 4, 2021
On Thursday, McWilliams resigned as head coach of Rugby United New York. In the press release given out by Rugby United New York, McWilliams stated that he needed to be with his wife Sarah to battle some significant health issues. He also stated how the COVID-19 pandemic has made everyone realize how important family is. He also thanked the owners, the staff, and the players.
McWilliams is New York City’s second-ever head coach. According to Americas Rugby News, he was made the head coach in September 2019. He has a lot of international experience as a head coach. For example, in 2019 he was one of Gary Gold’s assistants for Team USA in the 2019 Rugby World Cup. He was also the International Senior Women’s XV Backs/Attack Coach for the Irish Rugby Football Union from 2009-14.
Overview of Greg McWilliam’s time with Rugby United New York
Greg McWilliams has a record of three wins and two losses as New York City’s head coach. His first-ever MLR game as head coach was a 34-14 loss in Nevada to the New England Free Jacks on February 9. However, he would win his first-ever game with New York City with a 49-31 against Austin Gilgronis on February 15, which also took place in Nevada.
Persistence and resilience only come from having been given the chance to work through hard times. We’re built tough. We’re #builtfornewyork pic.twitter.com/qLvBweww95
— Rugby United New York (@rugbyunitedny) March 6, 2021
It is unfortunate that McWilliams never coached a game at MCU Park in Brooklyn, New York City. One of the perks about being a head coach is coaching at home, where one’s team is based. However, saying that, Greg McWilliams is right. Family comes first, and everyone at Last Word on Sports, wishes nothing but the best for him and his family during this difficult time.
However, this ultimately means Rugby United New York might need an interim head coach as the 2021 MLR season will commence soon. New York City’s first game will be against the San Diego Legion on Saturday, March. 20 according to Rugby United NY.
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Watch our for more MLR reports from Raheem Bashir on the developments in the 2021 Major League Rugby (MLR) season. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and join in the conversation on the LWOS boards here.
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