03/23/2025
The formation of Alfred University Rugby began at Albany Law School, Albany, New York
Professor William M. Watkins (1937-1986)
Founder of the Albany Law School Rugby Football Club in 1965
Hon. Jan Plumadore – Albany Law 1968, Bronze Star recipient, NYS Supreme Court Justice, Founder of the Saranac Lake Mountaineers Rugby Club 1972 - 2nd from right in the Blue Jackets photo.
Co-Founder and Coach Bill Pulos – Alfred University 1977, Albany Law School 1980 - 2nd from left in the Blue Jackets photo
Co-Founder Ty Fobare – Saranac Lake Mountaineer, Alfred University 1987
Ty Fobare, the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity members, the Alfred University charter members and Lawyer/Professor/Coach Bill Pulos started Alfred Rugby in a farmer’s hayfield, 40 years ago in 1985.
From Coach Pulos: I’m grateful to have been selected for the Charter Class of the Albany Law RFC Blue Jackets on April 19, 2024. Starting rugby 48 years ago with Professor Watkins at Albany Law helped define my life and inspired me to help others at both Alfred colleges enjoy this game for 35 years 1985-2019, through thick and thin. I coached the first game and the last game of 15’s for the Alfred University men's rugby club.
Respect and thanks to each and every rugby player from Alfred University and Alfred State. They are the ones that did it. A tremendous group of individuals and teammates. The legends and traditions of Alfred Rugby are known throughout the State and beyond because of them.
They all enriched my life.
Best wishes always,
GO FRED!
BP