Academy Staff Updates

After a tremendously challenging yet momentum-building year, we have made some changes to the staffing structure of the Play Rugby Academy team, to maximize our ability to Go Forward into the fall season! We are so proud of this amazing group of people that are committed to changing lives both on and off the rugby pitch! We are delighted to announce the following positions:

Ashley Allen – Academy Program Manager & HS Girls Head Coach

Ashley has worn many hats since she joined us two years ago! In the past year, she has shifted her focus from organizational operations to helping re-start the Academy after COVID and we couldn’t have gotten it off of the ground without her! From helping to develop COVID-safe protocols and making sure we have fields to practice on, to emailing every coach in the tri-state area to get the Girls a game, she has been my right-hand woman. What has become clear is that Ashley has a real passion for the Academy and the potential impact it can have if delivered really well. We are excited to have her officially managing the logistics of the entire program while serving as Head Coach for the Girls! She’ll now be the main point of contact for all Academy YDMs and the parents/players of our U10-U12 teams as well.

Yohendy Martinez – HS Boys Head Coach

Since Yohendy joined the team last fall, his commitment to growing the Academy program and to developing each individual player within it, has made a huge impact! He continuously goes above and beyond – hosting film review sessions, helping students secure financial aid, and developing/delivering a strength & conditioning program this summer. We’re thrilled to see him take on this role and help lead the Boys to success both on and off of the pitch. Yohendy will also continue to work closely with Dom on the delivery of our college readiness supports, which will officially kick off in the fall!

Clarence Clanton – U14 Head Coach

As we build out our High School program, it’s important that we are developing a pipeline of participants who are ready to jump in when they are old enough! Many of our Enrichment sites serve Middle School students and we need a really positive environment to welcome them into if (or most likely, when), they fall in love with the sport and are looking for more opportunities to play. Clarence has demonstrated his ability to create a supportive environment that both players and parents are drawn to, and now he can also put his USA Rugby L200 coaching skills to work!