CSB+SJU announce hiring of Nate Augspurger as Director of Rugby

CSB+SJU announced on Jan. 15 the hiring of Nate Augspurger as the Director of Rugby for the two schools. Augspurger brings a wealth of playing experience to the position, as he has appeared in 51 international games played for the United States between 2012-25, including a trip to Rio de Janeiro for the 2016 Olympic Games as a traveling reserve.

“I’m really excited about the direction the program is heading with Coach Nate. Having a coach with USA Rugby experience brings a high level of knowledge, professionalism and intensity to the team,” sophomore backs captain Jayden Forniel said via email. “At the same time, he genuinely cares about player development and building a strong culture, which has already made a big impact on the group.”

Augspurger talked about how he can use his perspective as a coach who has experience playing at the highest levels to keep his team in the right mindset.

“As a coach, it’s easy to see someone whose tempers may be flaring up or don’t direct the team in the best way,” Augspurger said.

Augspurger described his leadership style as “no excuses,” saying that if the players can commit themselves full-heartedly to any task or team, they aren’t going to be left without any lessons that they can use in the future. He expects leadership from everyone on the team, however they might choose to show it.

“Whether you’re a fire-up guy who likes to get loud and have your moments, or you’re a quiet guy who just shows up and does your work,” Augspurger said.

Forniel explained how Augspurger’s approach to training is having a positive impact on the team, both in terms of performance and team cohesion.

“We’ve had multiple practices and team sessions with him so far. They have been very competitive and detail oriented. The expectations are definitely higher, but in a way that pushes everyone to improve,” Forniel said via email. “We’re also a young team, so having a coach who is clear, organized and focused on development has been really important as we continue to learn and grow together.”

Augspurger said that effort means a lot to him. One of the pillars of his coaching style, he says, is how he buys into players that put their best effort into everything, no matter what the result is. He said he will always be
proud of his athletes for putting in their time, dedication and effort. The spring rugby season will be Augspurger’s first in the position of Director of Rugby for CSB+SJU. Forniel detailed the team’s excitement for the upcoming season.

“I’m optimistic about the spring season. Because we’re a young group, there’s still a lot of growth ahead of us, but the commitment from the players and the leadership from the coaching staff have been strong,” Forniel said via email. “If we keep training with intensity and stay connected as a team, I think we have a real opportunity to take a big step forward this season.”

Augspurger will also be in the position of head coach for SJU and oversee operations and development for CSB. This fall the Johnnies tied for first with a league record of 3-1 in the Northen Lights League in Division III of the Small College Division and qualified for the national tournament with a league title victory over St. Thomas. The Bennies had a record of 5-6-1 overall, with a 3-3 record in the Women’s Collegiate Recreational 7s conference.

“There’s a real sense of belief and energy around the program right now. The culture being built is focused on discipline, accountability and pride in representing St. John’s rugby, that’s something everyone is excited to be part of,” Forniel said via email.