Men’s Division 1AA (D1AA) represents a highly competitive tier of collegiate rugby in the United States, featuring programs governed by both National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) and the College Rugby Association of America (CRAA). It serves as a bridge between elite Division I play and developing Division II or Small College levels, offering strong regional competition and a pathway to national championships under each organization’s structure. While NCR and CRAA operate independently, both use the D1AA designation for schools with established programs that may not have the depth or resources of top-tier D1A teams.
Divisional and Geographical Factors Help Prompt Principia Move to Midwest Conference
Principia College has announced a bit of a revamp of its rugby program and will join CRAA's Midwest Conference in its D1AA tier.
University of Washington Signs Ray Keane as New Head Coach
The Husky Rugby Alumni Association (HRAA) and the University of Washington Men’s Rugby Program has announced the appointment of Ray Keane as the program’s new Head Coach.
Western Washington Moves up to D1A
Bellingham, Wash. (Press Release)— CRAA D1AA champions Western Washington University has announced that it will move to the College Rugby Association of America D1A competition, beginning next season.
CRAA Names D1AA All American List
Colusa, Calif. (Press Release) – The College Rugby Association of America (CRAA) has announced its 2025–2026 D1AA All‑Americans, recognizing the top student‑athletes from a season that showcased strong competition across the division.
Remaining Seven Heart of America Teams Join NCR
Seven teams from the former Heart of America D1AA Conference are moving to NCR.
Arkansas, Kansas, Kansas State, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Oklahoma State are all moving out of what had been a USA Rugby-affiliated Heart of America into a new, seven-team conference.
