Empire Rugby Names Buffalo Rugby Club and Niagara University Local Hosts for 2026 USA Rugby Atlantic Super Regional
NEW YORK, NY (January 14, 2026) — Empire Rugby has announced that Buffalo Rugby Club, in partnership with Niagara University, will serve as the local hosts for the 2026 USA Rugby Atlantic Super Regional. The regional will be held May 2–3, 2026, on the campus of Niagara University.
The Atlantic Super Regional is one of USA Rugby’s premier post-season championship events, bringing together top men’s and women’s club teams from Empire, New England (NERFU), Eastern Pennsylvania and Capital unions. The weekend determines qualification for the USA Rugby Club National Championships.
“Western New York has a long-standing rugby tradition and an engaged community that continues to grow across youth, collegiate, and senior club levels,” said Dannish Patel, President of Empire Rugby. “Buffalo Rugby Club and Niagara University provide an outstanding combination of experience, facilities and leadership to host an event of this magnitude. Empire is excited to bring the Atlantic Super Regional back to our region and look forward to delivering a first-class championship experience for athletes, officials and supporters.”
Buffalo Rugby Club will lead local host operations, supported by Niagara University’s athletic facilities and campus resources. Together, they will welcome teams and fans from across the Atlantic region for a weekend that blends high-level competition with community engagement.
"Buffalo Rugby Club is honored to be named a local host for the 2026 USA Rugby Atlantic Super Regional,” said Collin DeGuehery, President of Buffalo Rugby Club. “As we celebrate our 60th year, partnering with Empire GU and Niagara University allows us to showcase Western New York’s rugby culture and deliver a first-class championship experience. We thank David Chapman (Niagara Rugby), Matt McGovern (Niagara Rugby Alumni President) and the University for their leadership and support, and we are proud that Niagara University Rugby will also be celebrating its 50th anniversary during the event."
"Our rugby programs at Niagara University are excited for the opportunity to collaborate with Empire Rugby and Buffalo Rugby Club in bringing championship rugby to Western New York. We are excited to be selected as the host site for the Atlantic Super Regional and look forward to welcoming some of the best rugby in the region to our campus,” said David Chapman, Head Coach of Niagara University Rugby.
In addition to match play, the weekend traditionally features events to highlight and advance the sport, including referee development, coach education and opportunities to highlight local youth rugby programs and partners.
Further details for the Atlantic Super Regional — including match venues, schedules and event programming — will be announced as available.
