Bob Weggler

"It’s a player’s game, not micromanaged by coaches. No timeouts and continuous play that requires constant decision making and everyone can score a try. A game for all body types."

With an astonishing 35 years of coaching experience under his belt, Coach Weggler is one of the deans of the athletic department. Since his tenure began at Norwich University in 2001, he has been one of the driving forces behind the program’s monumental and unprecedented success. Under his leadership, the team has established itself as arguably the most formidable team in New England.

Coach Highlights

• Brings 35 years of coaching experience to Norwich rugby; a cornerstone of the program since 2001.
• Built Norwich men’s rugby into one of New England’s most dominant and respected programs.
• Founder of the Chris Munn 7s Tournament, raising ALS awareness and honoring Munn, Class of 1981.
• Invented the Scrumijer, the first U.S.-made rugby scrum sled now used across North America.

Experiences Beyond the Pitch: Rugby Abroad

For Norwich men’s rugby, success goes beyond the final score on the pitch to include the power of brotherhood and seizing unique experiences. As a player-driven sport, rugby requires trust and reliance on your teammates, creating an extraordinary fraternity that transcends beyond the college experience into a broader connection with numerous alumni. Under the strategic leadership of Coach Weggler, the team has repeatedly travel overseas for international competitions, connecting with world-class teams, seizing unforgettable life experiences, and enriching their learning journey at Norwich. Embracing the extraordinary each step along the way.  

Raising Awareness: Supporting ALS Through Rugby

Each spring, Coach Weggler leads the charge as director of the inspiring Chris Munn’s 7s Tournament. This outstanding event aims to amplify ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) awareness, a tribute to Norwich rugby alum, Chris Munn, who ultimately lost his battle with this undefeated disease in 2020. With the collaborative efforts of the Norwich Scrum Alums, Coach Weggler arranges this annual tournament for men’s and women’s teams with complete anticipation and determination. Also, during each homecoming in the fall, they present the Chris Munn Scholarship Award to two deserving student-athletes, one from the men’s team and one from the women’s team. A bond of strength, resilience, and rugby has united the teams to the creation of the team motto “With You” in honor of Chris Munn. 

Coach Weggler’s Scrumijer: A Game-Changing Rugby Innovation 

At the mere age of 23, Bob Weggler invented and constructed the innovative Scrumijer, a first-of-its-kind rugby scrum sled made in the USA. For over two decades, this groundbreaking invention found its way into colleges and universities across North America, cementing Coach Weggler’s influence on the sport. Today, the legacy of the Scrumijer thrives, as it is produced by Rugby Imports, LTD. Without question, Coach Weggler has left an incredible mark on rugby.

Q&A with Coach Weggler

What brought you to becoming a coach for your sport?

When I was a sophomore in high school my football coaches were rugby players and introduced me to the game. I have been passionate about rugby ever since.

What excites you about this sport?

It’s a player’s game, not micromanaged by coaches. No timeouts and continuous play that requires constant decision making and everyone can score a try. A game for all body types.

What do you enjoy about working with student-athletes?

Mentoring student-athletes through life challenges.

What do you like about coaching at Norwich?

The Norwich brotherhood and camaraderie.

Why is Norwich a great place for student-athletes?

Small schools give you a great opportunity for brotherhood for life.

What is your approach to coaching?

Take ownership, be accountable, no excuses for both players and coaches. Winning with integrity regardless of the scoreboard.

What is Norwich’s approach to athletics, training, and being on a team?

It’s a blend of commitment, respect, and integrity, which is implemented through leadership development and teamwork.