Name: Michael Keifer 

Coach Michael Keifer is excited to begin his 11th year coaching Rugby and his first year coaching in the United States. He first learned to coach and train individuals and teams as an Army Ranger and Green Beret. Coach Keifer has been playing rugby since 1993, while he was stationed with the U.S. Army in Vicenza, Italy. He continued to play throughout his career, winning two Military National Championships with the Ft Bragg Rugby Club.  Coach Keifer was selected for the Military National Championship all-tournament team. Coach Keifer was also played for the All-Army Rugby Team. After retiring from the U.S. Army, he was hired to analyze, develop and delivery training for the UAE Special Forces. 

While living in Dubai, Coach Keifer volunteered to help coach his sons’ rugby teams. It was at this time that he rediscovered his love for the sport and his passion for coaching. He has coached age groups ranging from U6 to U19.  He has introduced new players to basic skills and developed experienced players using advanced tactics and techniques. Coach Keifer has experience with all formats of the game from 7 a side, 10 a side, to 15 a side rugby. 

In Dubai, he assisted alongside former international and professional players before taking over as the Director of Rugby for a newly established rugby club, the Dubai Falcons. As Director of Rugby, he was responsible for; developing and implementing a coordinated coaching program throughout all sections of the Club, coordinating the implementation of the Club’s “agreed playing philosophy” throughout all teams, and overseeing the implementation of the Long-Term Player Development program throughout the Club. Coach Keifer holds certificates from World Rugby: Level 1 and 2 Coaching, Officiating Level 1 and Level 1 First Aid in Rugby. He received his bachelor’s degree in Business Management, as well as a master’s degree in Exercise Science and Sports Performance from American Public University. He is currently working on earning the NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist qualification. Coach Keifer is married to Angela, and they have two sons, Paeden and Lochlan.