Men's rugby scrum half Jack McAllister has been named a nominee for the 2026 Rudy Scholz Award, presented annually to the top men's collegiate rugby player in the United States. The honor is administered by Goff Rugby Report in partnership with the Washington Athletic Club, a long-time supporter of collegiate rugby and host of the annual awards ceremony in Seattle, Washington.
 
McAllister's nomination places him among the elite players in the country, recognized not only for his on-field performance but also for his leadership, consistency, and command of the game, hallmarks of the award's legacy.
 
The heartbeat of the Lindenwood attack, McAllister has orchestrated the Lions high-tempo style with precision and composure. His ability to control pace, distribute efficiently, and make sharp decisions under pressure has been central to Lindenwood's success this season. Whether igniting quick ball from the base or managing territory in tight contests, McAllister has consistently delivered in pivotal moments.
 
"Jack is the type of player every coach trusts implicitly," said head coach Josh Macy. "He sees the game a step ahead, puts others in position to succeed, and competes with a level of toughness that sets the tone for our entire group."
 
McAllister reflected on the recognition.

"It's an incredible honor to be nominated for the Scholz Award," he said. "This is a reflection of the team around me and the standards we hold at Lindenwood. I'm grateful for my teammates and coaches who push me every day, and proud to represent our program."
 
Off the field, McAllister embodies the student-athlete model, balancing the demands of elite competition with his academic pursuits. His discipline and attention to detail extend beyond the pitch, contributing to the culture of accountability and growth within the program.
 
The award McAllister is nominated for is named in honor of Rudolph Scholz, one of the most influential figures in American rugby history. A two-time Olympic gold medalist (1920 and 1924), Scholz helped cement the presence of the United States in the global game. His legacy, defined by excellence, service, and humility, continues to shape the values celebrated by the award.
 
The Washington Athletic Club has played a vital role in elevating collegiate rugby through both the Scholz and MA Sorensen Awards, recognizing the top men's and women's players in the country. Their continued investment has made the honor one of the most prestigious in American rugby.
 
McAllister joins a distinguished lineage of Lindenwood players recognized at the national level through the Scholz Award. Emmanuel Albert captured the award in 2022, while Duncan Krige (2025 finalist), Cristian Rodriguez, Wesley White, and Eduan van Heerden have all earned finalist honors in previous years. In addition, a number of Lions have appeared on the broader nominee lists over time, reinforcing the program's consistent presence in the national conversation.
 
His nomination continues that tradition and underscores the reputation of Lindenwood rugby as a program that develops not only elite players, but leaders who impact the game at the highest collegiate level.
 
The 2026 Rudy Scholz Award winner will be announced later this spring at the Washington Athletic Club in Seattle.
 
For more information about the Rudy Scholz Award, visit https://www.goffrugbyreport.com.