Bob Watkins
2015
Inductee
Bob Watkins is a Founding Director of the U.S.A. Rugby Football Union in 1975 and served consistently as Director from 1975-1991 and as its President from 1983-1987 and again from 1989-1991. He has managed the U.S. National team (Eagles) against Canada, the USSR, South Africa, New Zealand, England, Wales and Hong Kong. Bob played for San Diego State University, Old Mission Beach Athletic Club, and Southern California XV. Bob was responsible for raising over $10 million from sponsorships, grants and gifts during his tenure as President of USA Rugby.
Bob was instrumental in the establishment of the Rugby Super League, the country’s first nationally competitive semi-professional league and “Championship Rugby”, the USA’s first television Rugby network. He initiated efforts to get USA Rugby included in the International Board and with his colleague Terry Fleener set the foundation for Rugby to be part of the United States Olympic Committee. He was also President of the PCRFU and SCRFU. Bob has served as a Trustee and Chairman of US Rugby Foundation.
Bob is a founding member and Trustee of the San Diego National Sports Foundation, the organizer and builder of the U.S. Olympic Training Center in San Diego. He served on the Board of Directors for San Diego International Sports Council, Hall of Champions Sports Museum, San Diego History Center and the YMCA of San Diego County; was Chairman of the Board of the San Diego County American Red Cross; and was the President of the San Diego Natural History Museum’s Board of Trustees.
Bob is a graduate of San Diego State University.