Utah Rugby Founders
Utah Rugby represents more than competition, we are a community of volunteers, families, referees, administrators, and supporters who contribute to the success of this sport in our state.
Originally from South Africa, Wade blends high stakes corporate leadership with a lifelong dedication to the global game of rugby. His career is defined by a unique ability to navigate complex, high impact environments, ranging from steering sales strategy and board level decisions, from startups to the massive logistical undertaking of preparing stadiums for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. This foundation of executive expertise now fuels his mission to elevate rugby in the US, especially Utah, with a focus to help the country achieve Tier 1 status.
Currently, Wade serves as a link between grassroots development and international operations. As the Tournament Communications Manager for World Rugby’s Pacific Nations Cup (PNC), ensuring execution and global visibility for the sport, working in collaboration with World Rugby, USA Rugby and TEG Sport to expand the game’s North American coverage. His influence extends from the boardroom to the pitch, where he remains deeply connected to the game’s integrity as a certified referee and member of the Utah Rugby Referee Society. Whether he is supporting the growth of the next generation at Mountain Ridge High School or leveraging his network to champion professional rugby, Wade’s commitment to the sport’s evolution is total.
Beyond his strategic and athletic contributions, Wade is a multifaceted professional, a dad and a published photographer with a talent for capturing life’s most meaningful moments. This creative eye complements his analytical and leadership skills, allowing him to approach every project, from international sports communications to corporate revenue growth, with a unique perspective. Driven by a global network and a South African born grit, Wade continues to distinguish himself as a leader capable of delivering results at the highest levels of business and sport.
Wade Bricknell
Oli is a distinguished American rugby union player and a prominent leader in the Utah rugby community, celebrated for his skill, strength, and unwavering dedication to the game. A powerhouse prop, Kilifi has represented the United States at the highest levels, earning numerous caps for the USA Eagles and competing on the global stage at the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups. His technical expertise and resilience have made him a cornerstone of American rugby, both as a player and as a mentor.
Beyond his illustrious international career, Kilifi has been instrumental in driving the growth and development of rugby in Utah. As a respected leader in the local rugby community, he has inspired countless players, sharing his experience and passion to cultivate a new generation of athletes. Kilifi’s commitment to fostering the sport extends to his active involvement in community programs, youth development, and efforts to increase rugby's visibility and impact across the state.
Known for his leadership on and off the field, Kilifi embodies the values of teamwork, determination, and perseverance. His influence as a mentor and ambassador for the sport has made him a central figure in the advancement of rugby in Utah and across the nation. Kilifi’s dedication ensures his legacy will continue to inspire future players and strengthen the rugby community for years to come.
Olive 'Oli' Kilifi
Nikki is a community builder, systems strategist, and advocate for sustainable growth within Utah Rugby. Her work focuses on strengthening the structures that allow rugby organizations, players, and communities to thrive both on and off the field. Bringing a background in organizational development, sponsorship strategy, and community engagement, Nikki has become a key contributor to the continued growth and visibility of rugby across the state.
Professionally, Nikki is the owner of Sweet Kustoms, where she supports nonprofits, sports organizations, and small businesses through partnership development, networking strategy, and operational systems designed to create long-term stability and connection. This experience has translated naturally into rugby, where she has helped organizations strengthen community relationships and expand opportunities for growth.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Nikki found her home in rugby through its culture of respect, resilience, and family. As a woman in sports leadership, she is passionate about creating inclusive pathways that support players, referees, and administrators at every stage of involvement. Her work emphasizes mentorship, resilience, and leadership development while strengthening connections between youth, collegiate, and adult rugby communities throughout Utah.
Today, Nikki remains actively involved across multiple levels of Utah Rugby, supporting adult rugby, youth development, referee initiatives, and community partnerships. She is proud to contribute to the continued growth of Utah Rugby and is committed to helping strengthen the sport’s future through leadership development, community connection, and sustainable growth across all levels of the game.
Nichol 'Nikki' Bartell
Saia is a celebrated rugby union player whose impact extends far beyond his powerful presence on the pitch, he has been a central figure in the growth of rugby throughout Utah at all levels, from grassroots youth engagement to organizational leadership.
Born in Tonga, Saia developed his love for rugby at Liahona High School, where he played first XV before moving to the United States and quickly becoming a respected leader in local rugby circles. His journey reflects the spirit of hard work, resilience, and passion that defines the sport.
As a cornerstone of Utah Warriors since the league’s inception in 2018, Saia has established himself as one of the most experienced and admired players in MLR. A lock with rare athleticism and strength, he reached a major milestone by earning over 50 caps for the Warriors, a testament to his consistency, leadership, and dedication.
But Saia’s influence isn’t limited to professional play. From his early years competing with local sides like the Utah Brothers in the Rugby Utah Men’s Premier Division to captaining select regional teams, he’s helped bridge the gap between community rugby and elite competition.
In Utah, Saia has embraced a mentorship role for young athletes, regularly appearing at youth clinics, community events, and club programs to inspire the next generation of players. His commitment to giving back strengthens the foundation of rugby across the state and reflects the inclusive values held by Utah Rugby.
Known affectionately by fans and teammates as “Chief,” Saia embodies rugby’s core principles of teamwork, respect, and service. His ongoing presence in Utah, both on the field with the Warriors and in support of youth rugby initiatives, continues to elevate the sport’s profile and inspires aspiring rugby players throughout the region.