BELMONT, N.C. -- Interim Head Rugby Coach Genaro Fessia has been elevated to the position on a permanent basis, Vice President and Director of Athletics Stephen Miss announced today. Fessia, an assistant coach with the program since 2022, had been directing the program on an interim basis during the Spring (Sevens) season.

"After conducting an extensive and thorough search, we are excited to announce the elevation of Genaro Fessia to Head Rugby Coach at Belmont Abbey College," Miss said. "Without question, Coach Fessia's accomplished playing career on the world's biggest stage and his wealth of coaching experience will serve him well in his new role. That being said, it is his ability to cultivate meaningful relationships with and his commitment to the holistic formation and development of his students - body, mind, and soul - that will enable him to guide our program to continued, sustainable success."

Fessia has been a part of Abbey Rugby's tremendous success over the past two years. The Crusaders have swept the Southern Rugby Conference's 15s and 7s titles in both of those years, advancing to the National 7s Championship twice, They finished third in 2023 and ninth in 2024. The Abbey also participated in the National 15s Tournament last fall.

Fessia has spent most of his life in the rugby community, beginning as a highly decorated player in his home country of Argentina. He earned 18 caps with the national team from 2004 to 2012, including at the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand and was also named to the prestigious Barbarians F.C. in 2008. He was named Best Player of the Interior of the Country in 2009 and 2010.

Following his career, Fessia spent time in both coaching and administrative roles in the sport.

Fessia earned a bachelor's degree in Sports Managing from Universidad Siglo XXI and completed the English Advanced Course at the University of Languages, National University of Cordoba.

"I am extremely grateful to Belmont Abbey College for the opportunity to lead the rugby program," Fessia said. "It is a great opportunity for me to share my experience with the students. I want to continue their training process together with the college to achieve future upright citizens of faith, capable of working as a team and being examples for their community."