St. Thomas Athletics is looking forward to bringing some new energy to the Women's Rugby program with the announcement of Nathan Bustard as the new Head Coach.

Bustard is no stranger to the Tommies Rugby programs as he was a student trainer for the Men's team while completing his Kinesiology Degree at UNB.  He also played four years with the UNB Ironmen on the 2nd row winning Maritime Championships and will look to use the knowledge he learned to instill growth and development with the STU Women's Program.

"What drew me most to the team is the opportunity to work with the very talented group that has been put together by the previous coaching staff. There is a lot of really strong rugby players on the team already, and some of the 1st and 2nd year players from 2019 will be coming in with more experience and development." said the Woodstock, NB native.  "This team, with their close defeat in the ACAA Finals last year, has shown that they are fierce competitors and are willing to put in the work to take a shot at the championship."

Although the 2020 Fall season has been cancelled, Bustard will turn his focus on team cohesion and skill development when practices begin September 15th: "It’s a really great opportunity for myself and the new coaching staff to work with the team to implement new systems and strategies and set the groundwork for success next season."

Athletics Director Michael Eagles is impressed with the new coach's thoroughness and ability to form a coaching group that will help return the team to Championship form.  "We are looking forward to seeing the team practice and train this fall, for the athletes that are in town. Hopefully the athletes will be able to improve their skills and the new coaches can use the time to improve as well."

The Tommies Women's Rugby program look forward to the fall semester of skill development leading into the 2021 Fall season in the ACAA.