Old Glory DC Professional Rugby Team Debuts At George Mason Stadium In Fairfax

Fairfax City and County officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Sunday to welcome Old Glory DC to George Mason University's stadium.

By Michael O'Connell, Patch Staff

Apr 27, 2026 10:01 am EDT | Updated Apr 27, 2026 1:18 pm EDT

Old Glory DC scrimmages before the start of their debut home match against the California Legion Sunday night in Fairfax. (Michael O'Connell/Patch)

FAIRFAX, VA — Professional rugby made its official debut in Fairfax on Sunday, as local officials and team owners gathered at George Mason University’s stadium for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to welcome Old Glory DC to its new home.

The ceremony preceded a match against the California Legion, marking a permanent move for the Major League Rugby franchise after playing a single rain-delayed game at the venue last season.

Mayor Catherine Read welcomed the team and spectators, stating that the city is committed to making this "the best season ever for Old Glory".

Fairfax County Supervisor Pat Herrity (R-Springfield), a veteran rugby player, highlighted the team's economic and civic contributions. "I want to thank you for your investment in local youth teams," Herrity said. "I want to thank you for your investment in local businesses in the city and in the county."

Business leaders and officials from both the city and county of Fairfax help Chris Dunlavey, co-owner of the Old Glory DC professional rugby team, celebrate the team's first home game Sunday night at George Mason University with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. (Michael O'Connell/Patch)

The team is owned by Chris Dunlavey and Paul Sheehy of Sheehy Auto Stores. Dunlavey, a Fairfax resident for nearly 40 years, noted that the George Mason facilities and the local reception played a key role in the move.

"The City of Fairfax has given us a tremendous welcome, made us feel a part of the community," Dunlavey said. "We are very excited to be a part of the community fabric here from now forward."

Miss Virginia Madison Whitbeck sang the National Anthem at Sunday night's professional rugby match between Old Glory DC and the California Legion. She poses here with the Fairfax Resolves Chapter Color Guard of the Sons of the American Revolution. (Michael O'Connell/Patch)

The arrival of the professional team coincides with regional efforts to grow the sport through organizations like Rugby Virginia, which serves 1,500 youth athletes across 23 clubs. Following the ceremony, the team began its match against the California-based Legion.

California Legion defeated Old Glory DC 36 to 23 to claim a bonus-point win and strengthen their position near the top of the Major League Rugby table, according to the Major League Rugby website.

Old Glory DC will return to George Mason University Stadium on Sunday, May 3, to play a 4 p.m. match against the Seattle Seawolves. Information about purchasing tickets and the 2026 Old Glory DC schedule can be found on the team's website..

Supervisor Pat Herrity (R-Springfield), who is a former rugby player, explains the rules of the game prior to Sunday night's match at George Mason University in Fairfax. (Michael O'Connell/Patch)