Parent gift to transform team travel

University of South Carolina rugby parents Bill and Cindy McKernan have made a $30,000 donation to the Carolina Rugby Club to assist with fall regular-season travel and food expenses.

Specifically, the USC Men’s Rugby Student Athlete Experience Fund was created and will be used to pay for charter bus transportation for overnight team travel and team meals on those trips. The donation will also be used to support two team dinners this fall.

Traditionally, USC rugby has used 15-passenger vans for team transport and rarely supports team meals.

“We are very impressed with the USC program, its leadership and the team culture,” said Cindy McKernan, whose son, Will, is a sophomore on the team. “This gift will improve the travel experience and create more opportunities for them to bond over a meal.”

The McKernans live in Villanova, PA. Their gift matches the second-largest single gift to the Club.

“The program, alumni, and parents are very grateful to the McKernans,” said Head Coach John Roberts. “With a roster of 60 players, travel is our largest expense. This gift also allows us to travel with members of our team who may not be rostered to play.”

While the men’s rugby club does receive some university funding, the club relies on dues and fundraising to support travel, equipment, scholarships, and the coach’s salary. Last year, more than 80 individuals made a gift of $100 or more to the Carolina Rugby Endowment.

To learn about USC rugby’s philanthropic outreach, visit the support webpage.