For Oliver Kelleher, the path to rugby was not a straight line. Inspired by his British mom, he tried the sport at age 11 but quickly declared he was done. It wasn't until high school that Kelleher rediscovered rugby through a friend on the Wrentham Barbarians club team. This time, he fell in love with the tight-knit community of teammates and coaches.

As a senior captain, Kelleher helped lead a successful season, showcasing his skills as a ball carrier and kicker. Though his junior year was cut short due to COVID-19, those shared practices deepened his passion.

Seeking a school with rugby, environmental science, and a fresh community, Kelleher toured Western Washington University (WWU). A shocking moment solidified his decision - witnessing a player suffer a seizure and cardiac arrest during a touch game.

"I was in shock, but saw how strong the rugby bond was during those terrifying minutes," Kelleher said. The player survived, and after meeting coaches and experiencing WWU's campus, Kelleher knew this was his destination.

Financial aid through the Paul Horne Scholarship allowed Kelleher to commit to Western. On the pitch, he started at fullback his freshman year before shifting to outside center. He credits the mentorship of an experienced captain for developing his all-around skills.

Off the field, WWU's program encourages scholastic and active lifestyles, allowing Kelleher to balance academics with skiing, friends and fun team bonding trips. Through rugby's ups and downs, he's found his passion, honing leadership skills with an elite competitive drive.