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Coaching Staff

Two USA Eagles internationals lead the WRFC program — one held the record as the youngest player ever capped by the United States, the other has captained the Eagles in test matches within the past three years. They coach the Division 1 side and the players who turned up having never held a rugby ball, in the same sessions.

Head Coaching Staff

Leading our rugby program with vision and expertise

Thretton Palamo - Head Coach at Washington Rugby Football Club

Thretton Palamo

Head Coach

Thretton was capped by the USA Eagles at 19 and held the record as the youngest player ever capped by the United States for years afterwards, going on to a professional career. At WRFC he runs the senior program and works with the backs on attacking shape and decision-making, and coaches players who arrived having never played rugby.

Specialties

Backs DevelopmentGame StrategyHigh Performance
Jamason Fa'anana-Schultz - Lead Assistant Coach at Washington Rugby Football Club

Jamason Fa'anana-Schultz

Lead Assistant Coach

Jama has captained the USA Eagles in test matches within the past three years and captained Old Glory DC in Major League Rugby. At WRFC he runs the forwards, scrum and lineout, and sets the tone for how the squad trains. New forwards learn set piece and contact technique directly from him.

Specialties

Forward PlaySet PiecesTeam CultureLeadership

Assistant Coaches

Supporting player development and team success

Roger Evans - Assistant Coach at Washington Rugby Football Club

Roger Evans

Assistant Coach

Roger contributes valuable coaching experience and tactical insight to our program. His dedication to fundamentals and skill development helps players reach their full potential.

Specialties

Skills DevelopmentDefensePlayer Mentoring
Eric Keys - Assistant Coach at Washington Rugby Football Club

Eric Keys

Assistant Coach

Eric brings technical expertise and a focus on continuous improvement to our coaching staff. His analytical approach helps optimize team performance.

Specialties

Technical AnalysisConditioningMatch Preparation

Volunteer & Player Coaches

Dedicated volunteers enhancing our coaching program

Doug Muilken - Volunteer Coach / Player Coach at Washington Rugby Football Club

Doug Muilken

Volunteer Coach / Player Coach

Doug serves as both a player and volunteer coach, offering unique on-field perspective and leadership. His dual role bridges the gap between coaching staff and players.

Specialties

Player LeadershipOn-Field CoachingTeam Dynamics
Trey Kierl - Volunteer Coach / Player Coach at Washington Rugby Football Club

Trey Kierl

Volunteer Coach / Player Coach

Trey contributes as a player coach, bringing energy and hands-on experience to training sessions. His commitment to team development enhances our coaching depth.

Specialties

Hands-on TrainingPlayer DevelopmentGame Preparation

Previous Coaches

Anou Phaipanya — Head Coach, 2021-2024

Jovolisi Fotofili — Head Coach, 2016-2022

Coaching Philosophy

Our coaching staff is committed to developing well-rounded players who excel both on and off the field. We emphasize:

  • Technical excellence and fundamental skill development
  • Strategic thinking and tactical awareness
  • Physical conditioning and injury prevention
  • Leadership, sportsmanship, and team culture
  • Continuous learning and personal growth

Whether you're a seasoned player or new to rugby, our coaches are dedicated to helping you reach your full potential while fostering a supportive and competitive environment.

Train Under Them

Practices run Tuesday and Thursday evenings with matches on Saturdays, across fall and spring 15s, winter workouts and summer 7s. Get in touch and we will point you to the next one.