Chad H.

CGA Player Residency: 2025, Player Residency Program

Collegiate Affiliation (Class of 2025): St. Bonaventure University Men’s Rugby

Immersed in the Crusaders Way

Chad Hagen joined the Crusaders Global Academy Player Residency in 2025 as part of his continued development as a collegiate rugby athlete. Coming from the U.S. college rugby system, Chad entered the residency seeking exposure to elite coaching, higher training standards, and a deeper understanding of professional rugby culture. Through daily training environments aligned with Crusaders principles, he experienced a level of structure, intensity, and accountability designed to accelerate player growth both on and off the field.

What He Gained: Foundations for High-Performance Growth

Enhanced Rugby IQ & Technical Understanding:
Immersion in the Crusaders system challenged Chad to think faster, execute with precision, and better understand his role within structured team frameworks. The residency emphasized decision-making, skill execution under pressure, and clarity around game systems.

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Professional Standards & Mindset:
Training within a high-performance environment exposed Chad to the habits, expectations, and preparation standards required at the elite level. From session intensity to off-field professionalism, the residency reinforced what it takes to consistently perform and develop as a complete rugby player.

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Perspective Beyond U.S. Collegiate Rugby:
Living and training within a global rugby culture offered Chad valuable perspective beyond the American collegiate pathway. Exposure to international coaching philosophies and rugby environments helped broaden his understanding of the game and his potential within it.

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