NEWS: Jack Hanratty wraps up time with Gee-Gees women’s rugby, announced as head coach of USA Women’s Rugby XVs

Jack Hanratty will officially conclude his time as head coach of the Gee-Gees women's rugby program as 2025 ends, making way for the search for the next head coach of the program.

Hanratty joined the Gee-Gees following his successful run with Rugby Canada, highlighted by guiding the Women's Sevens team to a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He officially began his tenure at the University of Ottawa in December 2024, bringing with him a wealth of international experience and a deep passion for the sport.

In his season with the Gee-Gees, Hanratty led the program to a 5–1 record in RSEQ regular-season play, followed by a competitive 3–3 post-season that included an RSEQ silver medal and a sixth-place finish at the U SPORTS National Championship.

"I loved the feeling at Matt Anthony when the team sprinted out with the flag and the way the fans were cheering and banging on the drums," Hanratty reflected. "The atmosphere is one of the luxuries of this place"

"Anyone who has worked with Jack knows the incredible work ethic and passion he brings to the sport. While his time with us was brief, it was exactly what we needed," Gee-Gees Assistant Director, High Performance, Danika Smith said. "He set a foundation that we will continue to build upon, creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive and be prepared for the next step in their professional or rugby careers."

Despite a short tenure, Hanratty made a meaningful impact on the program, offering his technical expertise, international insight, and a strong commitment to building team culture.

"As a whole, one of our values was 'One Team, Une équipe' and although I would have changed lots of things, that value was lived throughout and I'm excited to see what results will come from the Gee-Gees program," Hanratty said.

"In his time here, Jack undoubtedly helped move our program forward, and we are deeply grateful for his contributions. We are proud of him and excited for what comes next," Smith said. "Thanks Jack, you will always be a Gee-Gee."

Hanratty will be joining the USA Rugby program, taking on the role as Head Coach of USA Women's XVs.

As Hanratty departs, the search for the next Gee-Gees head coach will officially commence with the position being posted publicly on Thursday, Dec. 4.