Glendale Raptors announce Borlase as new Head Coach for 2020 season

The Glendale Raptors have announced that Peter Borlase will serve as the head coach for Colorado’s professional rugby team as they begin their third Major League Rugby (MLR) season.

Borlase was an assistant coach for the Raptors side during the 2019 season, serving as the forwards specialist under the previous head coach, David Williams.  Williams was released earlier this month after the Raptors finished their season early, not making the playoffs and finishing 7-7-2 in their second season in the MLR.

“I had to make some very tough decisions after this season,” said the Raptors General Manager and Director of Rugby, Mark Bullock. “However, my job is to ensure that the needs of the organization and the needs of the players align; and the final decision was made to restructure.

 “I have observed Pete coaching at various levels over the years, and he not only has the expertise needed for this level, but has a player-centered approach that works well in this modern era. We are convinced Pete will be a great leader for this team moving forward.”

Born in New Zealand, Borlase played top-level professional rugby for several years overseas before coming to Colorado and planting roots in Denver. He has been with the Glendale Raptors for just one season; but prior to his time in Glendale, he coached with a team in Spain, the USA Under-20s, the PRO Rugby Denver Stampede and the Denver Barbarians Rugby Football Club.

Although there are still a few staff members who are yet to be announced, it has also been confirmed that Luke Gross will be the Raptors new defense coach and Nico Rithner will serve as the strength and conditioning coach.