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Overview
The President of the United States Rugby Foundation, Brian Vizard, speaks with Connor Kelly, representing his late father Albert "Lee" Kelly, the legendary architect of Gonzaga High School rugby. Discover Lee's journey from University of Maryland player to building a powerhouse program at Gonzaga, with 16 National Championship appearances and 4 titles. Learn about his crucial role in developing youth rugby, founding the Boys National High School Rugby Championships, and his impact on thousands of players over a 50-year career. Connor shares invaluable insights into his father's legacy and contributions to growing rugby in the United States in this must-listen episode.
Show Notes
1:09 - Tell us a little bit about your dad, how he grew up, you know, how big a family did he come from and what sports did he play as a kid?
2:13 - And how did he get introduced to the sport of rugby?
2:35 - And tell us about your dad's career at the rugby career at the University of Maryland. What positions you play. Any individual or team achievements during that time?
3:17 - He went on to join the MOB, and then he spent the next 30 years building the MOB into one of the premier sides in the mid Atlantic. Walk me through some of the various roles held with MOB
4:05 - Okay, now, you and your brother, Brendan, you've been around the sport of rugby since you were born. When did the two of you start playing? And how big of an influence was your dad in learning the game?
4:57 - What was it like around the household back when you guys were learning how to play?
5:45 - How did your dad become involved with the Gonzaga high school rugby program?
6:13 - Now we know Gonzaga has been a high school powerhouse for a number of years. Back then, when your dad, you know, got involved with the program, were they good then or were they just starting out? Tell us a little bit about how Gonzaga played back then.
7:12 - Did he share with you the reasons for that continued success at Gonzaga?
9:22 - Now, your dad did more than just to create the dynasty at Gonzaga. Tell me about some of the other things your dad did in the sport, both locally and on the national level.
10:20 - What roles did he have with USA Rugby? And didn't he also get involved with a coaching leadership group as well?
12:31 - Well, now you're following in your dad's footsteps. You're coaching at Nashville Catholic rugby. How much of your dad's influencer teachings are you incorporating on your school's team?
14:05 - Connor, your sons are also playing. What positions do they play? And did your day, did your dad get to see them play rugby at all?
14:54 - Connor, your dad accomplished so much in our sport here. Of all of his accomplishments, what are you most proud of from your dad's rugby career?
16:09 - What do you think your dad would be most proud of from his career?
16:30 - And what do you think your dad's reaction being named this year's chairman's award recipient for all the work he's done in rugby?
Wrap Up
Brian Vizard, President of USRF, and Conner Lee, son of Lee Kelly, discussed Kelly's significant rugby contributions in a recent podcast. The conversation covered Kelly's career at the University of Maryland, his involvement with the Maryland Old Boys, and his work with the Gonzaga High School Rugby program. They also explored Kelly's broader impact on local and national rugby organizations. The podcast highlighted Kelly's enduring legacy within the rugby community and touched on his upcoming Hall of Fame induction. Key action items mentioned included preparations for the induction ceremony and the compilation of tributes honoring Kelly's life and achievements.
