The United States Eagles rugby squad has appointed a new head coach. Mike Tolkin will lead the team as it prepares to qualify for and compete in the next Rugby World Cup. Tolkin may have just taken the reins of the team, but he isn’t a new face. He was the Eagle’s defensive coach for the last three seasons including the Eagle’s time in the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Mike Tolkin is also a high school teacher. Since 1987, Tolkin has been an English teacher at New York’s Xavier High School. He also serves as the high school’s rugby coach. During his tenure, Xavier won 20 championships within its local region as well as three national rugby championships.

In addition to his high school coaching efforts, Mike Tolkin coached a Rugby League team from the New York Athletic Club from 2000 through 2011. Tolkin also led this team to three national championships.