BIO

When asked about the prospect of bringing a fiercely competitive squad to Melrose, the Glasgow native replied, “As a Scot working with Major League Rugby’s New York team, I am excited to contribute to the revival of the Scottish rugby brand that is the Co-Optimists at the birthplace of rugby sevens.”

 

Steve Lewis is currently one of the United States’ most experienced and successful Sevens coaches. He has been awarded the United States Rugby Coach of the Year in both 2015 and 2019, after winning a National Championship with the Bulldogs. 

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Having started his playing career at West of Scotland Rugby Club and the Glasgow district team, Steve immigrated to the United States and became player-coach in Vail, Colorado. His coaching career progressed rapidly, spanning every level of the American game - including clubs such as Denver Highlanders and Old Blue New York RFC. His ongoing successes saw him take charge of the USA Collegiate All-Americans (U-23), the Army West Point Women and the CT Bulldog 7's. Steve has also coached the national teams of Nigeria and Jamaica. 

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Steve is the current Director of Rugby Operations at Rugby New York, as well as a former member of the USA Rugby Congress, and the previous 7’s representative on USA Rugby’s Performance Game Board. The founder of the Northeast Academy (one of USA Rugby’s most successful sevens pathway programs), he will be known to USA Sevens rugby fans as a regular analyst and commentator on shows such asRugby Wrap-Up and ESPN.  

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We look forward to welcoming both Steve and Scott to The Co-Ops family, and are eager to witness their experience and expertise first hand when we take the field at The Melrose Sevens this April.