Henry "Hank" Carlton Mozingo didn't set out to be a leader. He just lived like one, every day, every practice, every match.
Hank joined the James Madison University Men's Rugby Club in the fall of 1987, arriving with a reputation that preceded him. A fierce competitor, he never backed down from a challenge on the field, dug deep when others were running on fumes, and demanded the best from himself before ever asking it of anyone else.
His teammates fondly remember him as a "reluctant leader" who didn't aspire to be the center of attention. Yet he was looked to as a leader because of his on-field confidence, natural presence, and unwavering dedication to the team. When Hank stepped onto the pitch, he was ready for battle, and his teammates were ready to follow.
The captain
As Team Captain in 1988 and 1989, Hank led JMU Rugby through some of its most successful years, including two Ed Lee Cup wins and a Final Four appearance in the East Coast College Championship. His impact was later recognized with his selection to the Madison Rugby All-Decade Team of the 1980s, along with countless other honors.
The man
Off the field, Hank was a loyal friend, trusted brother, and steady presence. He loved being part of the team, the camaraderie, the shared grind, the bond that rugby forges for life. He made others feel valued, pushed his teammates to be better, and carried himself with humility and quiet confidence in everything he did.
After hanging up his cleats, Hank carried those same values into every aspect of his life, becoming a successful businessman, devoted father, loving husband, and friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
When Hank passed away unexpectedly in August 2025, the loss was felt deeply by his wife of over 25 years, Leslie; his children, Shelby and Jarrett; his brother, Lee; and his other family, friends, coworkers, and the entire JMU Rugby community.
The scholarship
In the weeks that followed, an outpouring of support from his community helped honor the causes that mattered most to him, including the initial investment for the creation of a memorial scholarship at JMU. The Hank Mozingo Captain's Rugby Scholarship is awarded annually to a member of JMU Men's Rugby Club. It recognizes those who exemplify humility, perseverance, high character, and commitment to teammates and community, the same qualities Hank lived every day. As the scholarship moves through the endowment process with JMU, it is designed to support student-athletes for generations to come.
The Giving Day challenge
Honor the legacy of Henry “Hank” Carlton Mozingo, JMU Rugby Team Captain (’88–’89).The Hank Mozingo Captain’s Scholarship Endowment Endeavor launches with $25,000 raised through the generosity of family and friends. Once 50 donors are reached, Hank’s family will contribute an additional $25,000, bringing the total to $50,000. Each gift brings the endowment closer to full funding and strengthens its lasting impact on JMU Rugby student-athletes.
A note from Shelby
Shelby Mozingo, Hank's daughter, now serves as the family's representative to JMU and is a member of the JMU Student Experience Board. She attended MRC Alumni Weekend in the fall of 2025 and spoke directly to the team.
"Teammates and friends, I can't thank you enough for the support you've shown me and my family. Being able to attend MRC Alumni Weekend meant the world to me. I loved meeting many of you and seeing the brotherhood you share firsthand. It's no wonder my Dad had already booked his hotel over a year ago and couldn't wait to connect with everyone again. I am always here for you guys, in whatever way I can be, just like you were for my Dad."
With so much love and gratitude,
Shelby Mozingo
