Representing Connecticut, New Jersey and New York

Stew Smith is a graduate and rugby player alumni of the U.S. Naval Academy, a former Navy SEAL, and author of several fitness and self defense books such as The Complete Guide to Navy SEAL Fitness, and Maximum Fitness. Stew be writing a regular column to help increase the fitness knowledge of the players of this Union.

As a military fitness trainer, Stew has trained hundreds of students for Navy SEAL, Special Forces, Air Force PJ, Ranger Training, and other physical law enforcement professions. He also has done fitness training for the Naval Academy Rugby Team and St. Mary's Rugby out in California. His eBooks can help you achieve your fitness goals, whether you're a beginner or an expert.

Stew's Column

                          In 1995, Tony Brown became the first full-time rugby coach in Vassar's history. Under his stewardship, he has increased squad size while guiding the Brewers to several playoff appearances.

The 2006-07 season marks Brown's 12th year at Vassar. The men's team is 107-86-8. They have qualified for the Northeast Playoffs six times, won two Met. NY Championships and two Spring Tournament titles.

Brown moved to the United States in 1984 having played at St. Luke's College, Exeter and Wasps. In the UK he represented Southern Universities (UAU) and played for the invitation side Public School Wanderers. In the USA he played for Northern Virginia Rugby Football Club and was selected to the 1985 Potomac Rugby Union select side comprised of players from the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Brown retired from playing in 1986.

From 1988-95, Brown coached the George Mason University men's team in Fairfax, Virginia and compiled a 110-52-6 overall record (.637). Brown's teams beat several eastern powers including Army, Navy, and Penn State as well as twice winning the St. Patrick's Day Tournament and finishing as runner-up at the Cherry Blossom, West Virginia University, and Commonwealth Cup tournaments. GMU finished the 1995 season ranked No. 3 in the East coast.

Brown also coaches the women's program at Vassar and has worked as a Staff Coach with the USA U19 Boys program. He is a USA Rugby Coaching Development Program Leader.

Tony's Column