WWU Rugby Athletes Gain International Experience with Bristol Bears and Cottesloe Rugby Club

Western Washington University Rugby is proud to celebrate the international achievements of three standout athletes who continue to elevate the Viking Rugby name on the global stage.

This August, George Pritchard and Lyndon Bailey traveled to England after receiving invitations to join the prestigious Bristol Bears Academy, while Liam Herring recently completed an unforgettable playing experience with Cottesloe Rugby Club in Perth, Australia.

George Pritchard – Bristol Bears Academy

A sophomore center from White Rock, BC, George Pritchard has already represented BC U18 and is an invitee to the Canada U19 camp. Recognized this past season as WWU Rugby’s Outstanding Player, Pritchard has impressed teammates and coaches alike with his vision, skill, and leadership. His invitation to the Bristol Bears Academy highlights his growing reputation as one of the region’s top young talents.

Lyndon Bailey – Bristol Bears Academy

Joining Pritchard in Bristol is Lyndon Bailey, a lock from Northern California’s Wolverine RFC and a current U.S. Eagles U19 representative. Bailey, named WWU Rugby’s Best Forward this season, is known for his commanding presence in the lineout and his relentless work rate in open play. His physicality and consistency have made him a cornerstone of the Viking forward pack, and he now took that strength to the elite training environment of the Gallagher Premiership pathway.

Together, Pritchard and Bailey proudly represented WWU Rugby as they trained and competed with the Bristol Bears Academy—the development system for Bristol Bears, a professional side in England’s top-tier Gallagher Premiership.

“This was an incredible opportunity for George and Lyndon to test themselves in a world-class rugby environment,” said a WWU Rugby spokesperson. “Their achievements not only highlight their individual talent and hard work but also reflect the growing strength of our program.”

Liam Herring– Cottesloe Rugby Club, Australia

While Pritchard and Bailey were in England, Liam Herring recently wrapped up his own rugby adventure with Cottesloe Rugby Club in Perth, Australia. Herring is a product off the Eastside Tsunami RFC from Portland Oregon. Reflecting on the experience, Herring shared:

“Playing with Cottesloe has made me more aware of something that I have always known: there is always a bigger fish. And although that could be intimidating at times when it came to physicality, skills, and experience, nobody ever made me feel like it should be. Instead, people introduced themselves and reassured me when I clearly needed it. From the locker room atmosphere to post-game Lions series watch parties, they were welcoming. The culture was far broader and richer than anything I had experienced in rugby; a group of people who had loved the game their entire lives.

Although my trip had some hiccups, rugby remained its core and allowed me to make friends and have unplanned adventures. Even though I went to learn more about the game, I ultimately learned just as much about what it means to be a rugby player off the field as much as on it.”

Herrings's reflections capture the spirit of global rugby culture, where competition and camaraderie go hand in hand. His journey represents the opportunities WWU Rugby athletes embrace to grow both as players and as people.

A Proud Moment for Viking Rugby

As WWU Rugby continues to develop athletes who succeed at the highest levels, the program celebrates these international milestones as a testament to the team’s culture of excellence.

Congratulations to George Pritchard, Lyndon Bailey, and Liam Herring on their remarkable achievements. Viking Rugby looks forward to cheering them on as they continue to represent WWU on the world stage.