Army West Point Athletics
Men's Rugby
- Title:
- Assistant Men's Rugby Coach
Joseph Malanka enters his first season as the Assistant Coach of the Army West Point men's rugby program in 2024.
Malanka arrived at West Point after serving as the Head Coach for the University of Denver’s men’s rugby program, where he guided the program to success within the college ranks. After joining the program in 2023, Malanka oversaw all aspects of player development, training sessions, and game strategy.
Under his leadership, the team saw improvements in their overall win percentage and points per game, while also securing critical funding and donations for the club.
Prior to his position at Denver, Malanka was the Head Coach at the University of Dallas from 2019-2020, where he revitalized the rugby program and strengthened the team’s competitive edge.
Malanka's coaching experience also includes roles as the Assistant Rugby Coach for Texas State in 2017, where he worked extensively with the forwards on set pieces and breakdowns, and as a Guest Coach for the Austin Blacks, one of the top men’s rugby clubs in the U.S.
As a player, Malanka was a standout tighthead prop with over 30 caps for Austin Blacks, competing in the top division of U.S. rugby. He also played for Old Reigatians in the UK and Old Blue in New York City, gaining international experience and competing at a high level in both regional and national tournaments.
Malanka earned a Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University, where he captained the rugby team to promotion into the College Premier League.
