History

In late 2013, former President of Life Chiropractic College West, Dr. Brian Kelly, and colleague Dr. Bruce Chester, established Life West Rugby. As a New Zealander, Dr. Kelly grew up around the game and has a passion for the sport where his countrymen are widely known as some of the best in the world. His vision for establishing a top-level rugby program was realized on January 11, 2014, when the Life West Men’s team, played their first ever league match – winning against the Monterey Bay Beach Dogs Rugby Club, 79 – 10.

From the outset the college wanted to develop a program that showcased excellence in rugby and chiropractic. In an effort to introduce chiropractic to a wider community and enhance college pride; the program provided opportunities for students, alumni, chiropractors and the local community to be involved.

The team was an immediate success, and a remarkable run of strong form saw the team remain unbeaten in their first regular season play. In their inaugural season the team went on to win the Northern California, Pacific North West and Western Conference Championship titles, and placed second at the 2014 USA Rugby National Championship. 

In 2015, the college welcomed the newly formed Women’s team, who have established themselves as one of the strongest womens programs in the US.