Our Story
Rugby has a longstanding tradition at the University of Montana dating back to 1968. The team disbanded during COVID but we're back! We're excited to announce a NEW ERA of Griz Rugby. New coaching staff, new team, new opportunity, and Griz determination. We're ready to dominate collegiate rugby in the Northwest and beyond.
Our Historic First Year
The Spring 2026 season marked a major milestone in Montana Griz Rugby’s resurgence, highlighting the team’s successful return to collegiate rugby.
After finishing the fall season undefeated, the Griz hosted the first-ever Griz 7s tournament in Missoula, then hit the road to take on top teams across the West. They earned a runner-up spot at the NorCal 7s tournament in California and secured a place at the 2026 National Collegiate Rugby 7s Championships in Washington, D.C.
In Washington, D.C., Montana kept up its momentum, notching big wins over Duke University and Virginia Military Institute on the way to a 5th-place finish out of more than 220 Division III rugby programs nationwide.
In just its first full year since relaunching, Griz Rugby established itself as one of the top collegiate programs—driven by the passion of its players and the support of its community.
Team Leadership
Head Coach Dave Kenkel
Coach Kenkel has an extensive and illustrious coaching career in Montana and nationally. He coached the Flathead Black and Blue from 2011-2013. Finished First and second in the Montana High School league years 2012 and 2013. He coached collegiately at Endicott College from 2016-2024 with a record 180-39-2. At Endicott his teams won 8 league titles and competed in 4 National Final Fours. While there he coached 12 All Americans and 2 Major League Rugby players.
Associate Head Coach Lance Heavirland
Coach Heavirland brings a proven track record of success and leadership to the University of Montana Men’s Rugby Team. At the high school level, he guided his teams to a 68-8-1 record, winning four boys state championships, one girls state title, and two junior high championships. He has also led two Montana Select Side teams at the competitive Great Northwest Challenge.
Lance is especially passionate about recruiting and takes pride in helping players take the next step in their rugby journey. He has helped dozens of athletes earn scholarship opportunities to play at the collegiate level. Known for his love of the game and the life lessons it teaches, Coach Heavirland builds his teams around fitness, discipline, and a strong sense of team culture—both on and off the field.
Team President Kyle Engel
Originally from Maryland, Kyle is a junior majoring in Wildlife Biology at the University of Montana. As both Team President and the ASUM Sports Union President, he exemplifies leadership on and off the pitch - balancing his passion for rugby with a deep commitment to student athletics and the Griz Community.
Partnerships Director Samantha Cooley
A Montana native, Samantha “Sam” Cooley brings a proven record of leadership, fundraising, and community engagement to the University of Montana Rugby program. In 2024, Sam was recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of Montana, ranking #6, and in 2025 earned national recognition among the Top 50 Chief Operating Officers.
As UM Rugby’s Partnership Director, Sam is dedicated to elevating the program through strong partnerships, community connections, and a shared passion for growing rugby in Montana.
Fan engagement
We've seen a 3500% increase in fan engagement on social media since the program's relaunch in September 2025. Good things are coming!
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