UNITED STATES ASSOCIATION OF RUGBY LEAGUE INC.
2026 BOARD ELECTION RESULTS
Date of Issue: 17 January 2026
Issued By: USARL Secretary
Following confirmation from the Election Officer, USARL Chair Matt Goschnick is pleased to announce the results of the 2026 Board elections.
Farewell to Outgoing Directors
The USARL board wanted to in particular thank two long serving directors Darren Piggins and Miranda Barnard for their dedicated service. Both have played an important part before and after the adoption of the elective Constitution in 2024. We look forward to their continued and passionate involvement in the game through their domestic clubs.
Welcome to Newly Elected Directors
As a result of the 2026 elections, the Board welcomes the following Directors, elected in accordance with Clause 4.2 of the USARL Constitution:
4.2(a) Nicky Butler
Brings a strong blend of athletic leadership, governance capability, and pathway development experience. A former collegiate captain at the College of Charleston and Dallas Harlequins player, she remains actively engaged in collegiate rugby pathways through NCR partnerships and holds an Executive MBA from UCLA Anderson.
4.2(b) Emiliano Nash
A community-focused leader, Emiliano is committed to player development and inclusive pathways. His collaborative approach strengthens regional growth and sustainable participation.
4.2(c) Paul Nicholson
With over 30 years in rugby, rugby league, and water polo, Paul brings international governance experience and expertise in media, broadcast, and event development.
4.2(c) Robyn Marie Oliveri
Former Tampa Mischief RL captain, USARL National Champion, and multiple-cap Women’s Hawks representative. Robyn has contributed extensively to the administration and development of women’s rugby league.
4.2(c) Ryan Coleman
Ryan Coleman is a former USA National Rugby League representative and New York Knights player with more than 25 years’ involvement in rugby and rugby league. He brings firsthand experience across the pathways, domestic competition, and the operational realities of the sport in the United States.
“I want to sincerely thank Darren and Miranda for their dedication and outstanding service to USARL. Their contributions were vital during a key period of governance reform.
I also want to express our gratitude to the clubs for their engagement in the process and for putting forward such high-calibre leaders to help shape the future of the game.
We are genuinely excited about the experience and insight our new Directors bring and look forward to working closely with them to strengthen and grow rugby league across the United States.”
- Matt Goschnick, Chair, USARL