Eamonn L.

CGA Player Residency: 2024, 8-Week Summer Residency

‍Collegiate Affiliation: Harvard Rugby Football Club

Overview

Eamonn Lay, a freshman from Harvard University Rugby, joined the Crusaders Global Academy in Christchurch, New Zealand, as part of an immersive eight-week development programme. Both on the field and in everyday life, Lay embraced the opportunity to train, learn, and grow in one of the world’s most respected rugby environments.

The Experience

Arriving mid-year with teammate Tinaye Ngorima, Lay stepped into a professional-level training environment at the Crusaders Global Academy, where elite coaching and purpose-built systems shape athletes holistically. Throughout the season, he engaged in intensive skill work, tactical learning, and cultural immersion alongside players from around the world. What stood out for Lay wasn’t just the rugby instruction, but the deliberate cultivation of culture and leadership — lessons that extended far beyond training sessions and into daily life.

Results & Impact

For Lay, the most meaningful growth came from a deeper understanding of how culture is built and sustained. He credits the Crusaders environment with not only advancing his rugby skills but also shaping his leadership mindset, equipping him to make a greater contribution to the Harvard Rugby program. By experiencing a winning culture firsthand, Lay now brings new clarity, purpose, and confidence back to his teammates.

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“Being here, you’re able to join a culture and become a part of it — and then learn how it was formed. That’s something we’re really trying to do back home with Harvard Rugby, and being able to step into that leadership role has been really special.” — Eamonn Lay

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