Kellogg alumnus Ray Lehner inducted into US Rugby Hall of Fame
Kellogg College is proud to celebrate alumnus Ray Lehner’s recent induction into the US Rugby Foundation Hall of Fame, where he has been honoured with the prestigious 2025 Craig Sweeney Award. This accolade recognises not only his remarkable achievements as a player but also his lasting impact on the development of rugby in the United States.
Ray Lehner sings the national anthem before a test match in the USA (photo courtesy of US Rugby Foundation)
A standout figure in American rugby, Ray earned 37 caps for the US national team during his distinguished international career, including representing his country at the 1999 Rugby World Cup.
In 1997, he came to Oxford to study for a Master’s degree in English Local History at Kellogg College, and in his first year was awarded an Oxford Blue – the highest honour granted to sportsmen and women at the university, and the first such award for a member of the College. He went on to secure four Oxford Blues in total – a rare accomplishment that cemented his reputation in international rugby circles.
The photograph below was taken at Twickenham Stadium after Oxford’s success in the 2001 Varsity Rugby match. He is pictured with Kate Tiller, who was his supervisor for his Master’s degree and a keen follower of sports, most especially rugby, and Kevin Tkchuk, who joined him as an Oxford Blue in 2001.
Ray Lehner (left) with founding Fellow Kate Tiller and fellow Oxford Rugby Blue Kevin Tkchuk (right)
During his time in Oxford, Ray balanced rigorous academic study with his sporting commitments. His ability to excel in both arenas exemplifies the College’s ethos of supporting flexible, ambitious study alongside wider personal and professional pursuits.
Ray Lehner at Bishop O’Dowd High School
Since 2002, Ray has channelled his passion for both sport and education into a teaching role at Bishop O’Dowd High School in Oakland, California, where he teaches Civics and Economics. In 2010, he founded the school’s Boys and Girls Rugby programme, and he continues to serve as its Director – mentoring students through sport and modelling the values of discipline, teamwork and perseverance.
Ray’s legacy as a player, coach and educator continues to shape the future of American rugby. His induction into the US Rugby Foundation’s Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to a career that has inspired many to strive for excellence – both on and off the field.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Ray on this well-deserved recognition.
