History

The Grand Rapids Gazelles Rugby Club was formed in 1978 by avid rugby enthusiast Ed Teliczan. In the first few years the club competed locally against in State competition, without much success, but exhibiting the spirit of rugby to its fullest. The club existed in this manner for a number of years, but grew in strength and numbers.

In the Mid 80’s, The Gazelles brought George Proctor, a full time coach, on board and realized the fruits of his labor. Proctor took this group of athletic but incohesive individuals and molded them into a team to be reckoned with. Under Proctor’s tenure, the club went from strength to strength, winning 4 consecutive Michigan State Championships from 88-91. The Club repeated as State Champs in 95 and 96, and in 96 won the Midwest Regional Crown. George retired from coaching at the end of the 97 season with much to be proud of.

Under new direction, the club has advanced to even greater heights. Since 1999, Grand Rapids has been undefeated in Michigan, has won 2 Midwest Region Division II championships, played in 2 consecutive USA National Division II Finals, and was promoted to the upper tier competition. Grand Rapids now competes in the National Division I competition, and in 2003, won the Midwest Division I Conference with an undefeated 10-0 record. The Gazelles then secured home field advantage in the USA National Playoff Competition, and the #3 seed in the country. Grand Rapids was also awarded the host site for the USA 2004, and 2005 National Sweet 16, for Division I. Each of those years Grand Rapids saw 16 teams from around the U.S. competing in town, and attracted thousands of spectators to the 2 day event.

Statistics

GR Rugby Club Membership: Playing 50+
Associate 300+
Alumni 500+
Midwest Regional Membership: Playing 12,500+
Alumni 60,000+*
USA National Membership: Playing 70,000+
Alumni 400,000+*

* Alumni numbers are based on historical active membership information and are estimated using USA Rugby’s database.