Old Glory DC Overview
Old Glory DC Rugby Football Club is a professional rugby union team based in the Washington metropolitan area, competing in Major League Rugby (MLR). Founded in 2018, the team began regular MLR play in 2020 and has steadily progressed within the league. The team plays its home matches at George Mason Stadium in Fairfax, Virginia, and is owned by Paul Sheehy, Chris Dunlavey, Verdine White, and Paxton Baker. Simon Cross has been the head coach since July 2023, guiding the team through its evolving competitive journey in the Eastern Conference.
Founding and Organizational Origins
Old Glory DC was established in 2018 as part of Major League Rugby’s expansion efforts to grow professional rugby in the United States. The team was announced in May 2018 and confirmed later that year, with the name Old Glory DC revealed in early 2019. The organization was founded by local business leaders Paul Sheehy, a former USA Eagles player, and Chris Dunlavey, a local club rugby player. Their goal was to build a competitive rugby franchise representing the Washington metropolitan area and to foster rugby’s growth in the region. Early operations focused on assembling a capable roster and establishing a strong organizational foundation.
Growth Into Major League Rugby Competition
Old Glory DC began with exhibition matches in 2019 before joining the Major League Rugby regular season in 2020. The team initially played home games at Cardinal Stadium on the Catholic University of America campus before moving to Segra Field in Leesburg, Virginia, in 2021. Over time, Old Glory DC developed its competitive programs, bringing in experienced coaches and players to strengthen its roster. The Scottish Rugby Union purchased a minority stake in the team early on, signaling international interest and support. The team expanded its presence in the Eastern Conference, steadily improving its performance and fan engagement.
Old Glory DC Competitive Journey
Since its inception, Old Glory DC has progressed from an expansion team to a consistent playoff contender in Major League Rugby. The team has experienced growing pains typical of a new franchise but has shown resilience and steady improvement across seasons.
Early Seasons and Development (2019–2021)
Old Glory DC’s first competitive season in 2019 consisted of exhibition games that did not count toward league standings. The 2020 season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, limiting the team’s ability to establish momentum. During these formative years, the team focused on building its roster and gaining experience. Initial challenges included coaching changes and adapting to the professional league’s demands. The team played home matches at Cardinal Stadium and later moved to Segra Field, seeking to enhance its facilities and fan experience.
Breakthrough in Major League Rugby (2022–2025)
In 2022, Old Glory DC faced a difficult start with seven consecutive losses, leading to the departure of long-time head coach Andrew Douglas. Interim coach Nate Osborne took over briefly before Josh Syms was appointed head coach later that year. Under Syms’ leadership, the team made its first playoff appearance, marking a significant milestone. In 2023, Simon Cross replaced Syms as head coach, continuing the team’s upward trajectory. The team made consecutive playoff appearances in 2023, 2024, and 2025, demonstrating competitive stability. Home venues shifted from Segra Field to the Maryland SoccerPlex and then to George Mason Stadium in Fairfax, reflecting organizational growth and strategic location choices. Ownership changes included minority stakes acquired by Verdine White and Paxton Baker in 2023, while the Scottish Rugby Union divested its interest by 2025.
Modern Program and Current Direction (2025–Present)
Currently, Old Glory DC competes in the Eastern Conference of Major League Rugby with Simon Cross as head coach. The team plays home matches at George Mason Stadium, which has a capacity of 5,000. Ownership remains with Paul Sheehy and Chris Dunlavey, alongside minority owners Verdine White and Paxton Baker. The team continues to focus on strengthening its roster, improving competitive results, and expanding its fan base. Long-term goals include securing playoff success and establishing Old Glory DC as a premier rugby franchise in the United States.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
Old Glory DC emphasizes resilience and steady development, focusing on building a cohesive team capable of competing at a high level in Major League Rugby. The team leverages strategic coaching and player development to excel in the Eastern Conference, aiming to capitalize on home-field advantages and tactical execution.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
The team’s first playoff appearance in 2023 marked a historic achievement. Other milestones include multiple playoff qualifications from 2023 through 2025, venue upgrades culminating in the move to George Mason Stadium, and significant ownership additions that have bolstered the franchise’s profile.
Old Glory DC Achievements and Results
Old Glory DC has established itself as a competitive presence in Major League Rugby with multiple playoff appearances and steady improvement since joining the league.
Major League Rugby Achievements
Since beginning regular season play in 2020, Old Glory DC has qualified for the playoffs three consecutive times from 2023 to 2025. The team reached the Eastern Conference semi-finals in 2023 and 2024 but has yet to secure a championship title. Key players such as Jack Iscaro, William Talataina, and Jason Robertson have contributed significantly to the team’s competitive efforts.
Conference Achievements
Competing in the Eastern Conference, Old Glory DC has consistently improved its standings, finishing third in the conference in 2025 and advancing to the conference semi-finals in multiple seasons. The team has developed talent that has helped solidify its position as a playoff contender within the conference.
Divisional Achievements
While specific divisional titles are not recorded, Old Glory DC’s progress within the Eastern Conference reflects growth and competitive promise. The team’s playoff appearances indicate rising success at the divisional level.
Series Achievements
Old Glory DC’s participation in Major League Rugby since 2020 has been marked by increasing competitiveness and playoff qualifications. The franchise continues to build its legacy within the league, aiming for deeper postseason runs and eventual championship contention.