2023-24 Kaler Family Rugby Scholarship Recipient: Isaiah Little

Driven by the discipline of rugby values, Isaiah Little has found the strength to persevere both on and off the pitch. Little was introduced to the sport during his freshman year of high school. Shortly after joining a local youth club team, the world was seemingly turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic. A break in play and a lack of local teams did not dislocate Isaiah’s passion for the game and he later found a home in United Rugby Football Club in Kansas City. 

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Despite his proximity to Kansas City interfering with the ability to attend regular weekday practice, Isaiah committed himself to developing his skills and competing in weekend games. 

“His self-motivation and tenacity allowed for him to play varsity this coming year, not because of formal training, but simply because of his desire for more and his self-discipline to work for it in the classroom and on the field. Although he was given an elite position, playing for one of the top teams in the state, he did not become complacent, but instead pushed himself to become and achieve even more! Isaiah is a guy who does not settle, but instead constantly, consistently strives for more. This kind of character is rare in today's young men, and I am confident it will benefit him in any university, any athletics program, and any job or career he desires to take,” said United Rugby Football Club Head Coach, Chauncey J. Hatten.

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Little has appeared on the pitch in a variety of positions, with his favorite being at flanker. His finesse, size, and speed gained him an invitation to join the Liberty North Selects in an undefeated run at the 2023 NashBash tournament, where he was also recognized as the team’s leading defensive player. He also appeared in games with the Columbia Outlaws and gained an invitation to play with the Kansas City Blues 7s. 

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While Little’s high school journey presented various personal challenges, he persisted to improve his GPA and earned the opportunity to continue his rugby career at the collegiate level. 

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“Rugby has shaped me as a man, showing me how to maintain respect in all circumstances. Throughout the challenges and triumphs on the pitch, I have grown both as a player and as an individual,” said Little. 

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Little will continue his academic and athletic career at Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science with a specialization in cybersecurity. At the collegiate level, Isaiah is eager to refine and gain new skills under Panthers head coach, Bryan Bevel. It is his dream to play at the international level with the USA Eagles one day. After college, he hopes to strengthen grassroots level rugby in his hometown of Columbia, Missouri.

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“I would like to facilitate high school rugby wherever I go. By promoting rugby, I aim to contribute to the growth of the sport and inspire other athletes to embrace its values,” said Little. 

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