Frequently Asked Questions about youth rugby

Rugby is often celebrated as the greatest game for its unique combination of physicality, skill, and sportsmanship. Unlike many other sports, rugby requires a balance of brute strength and strategic finesse, making it a test of both mind and body. The camaraderie and respect among players, regardless of the intense competition, embodies the sport's spirit of integrity and respect. Additionally, rugby's inclusivity, and variations of the sport such as Rugby 7s and touch rugby ensure that players of all shapes, sizes, and skill levels can participate and enjoy the game. The passionate fan base and vibrant culture surrounding the sport further highlight why rugby holds a special place in the hearts of millions worldwide.

Absolutely!  We have girls and boys starting at age 9 who play rugby with our club.  Our Youth and Middle School teams are both co-ed and we have High School boys and girls teams. We are actively working with local clubs and the entire rugby community to get more girls and boys involved in rugby at all levels. 

Rugby, like any contact sport, involves some risk of injury due to its physical nature. However, numerous measures are implemented to enhance safety. These include strict rules to protect players, such as regulations on tackling and scrummaging, and penalties for dangerous play. Additionally, players receive training in proper techniques to minimize injury risk, and World Rugby, the sport's governing body, continuously reviews and updates rules to ensure player safety.

In recent years, increased awareness of concussions and head injuries has led to greater efforts to protect players. This includes improved concussion protocols, educational programs for players and coaches, and advancements in medical support. While no sport can be entirely risk-free, rugby's governing bodies are committed to making the game as safe as possible for all participants.

Rugby is refreshingly basic when it comes to gear. To get started all a player needs is a mouthguard, a water bottle, and a pair of boots (Cleats as most of us know them- and soccer cleats work just fine if you can't find a local rugby store). Once a player registers with one of our teams they will buy a kit that consists of rugby socks, shorts, and t-shirts.  Rugby jerseys are owned by the club and are auctioned off  when they are retired.

We practice just outside of Bethesda easily accessible from I-495 and I-270. Game locations can vary though most games are within an hour or two from DC.  For players looking to expand their travels, we have gone to tournaments from Salt Lake City, to Tampa, and New York, and our players have gone on to play around the world.  

The age range for joining Roosters Youth Rugby is for girls and boys between 9 and 18 years old.  When you age out of Roosters Youth Rugby, we also have an active alumni team and are affiliated with the Roosters Old Boys (https://www.facebook.com/groups/552817554779860).

Joining Roosters Youth Rugby provides a great opportunity to improve your athletic skills, make new friends, and stay active and healthy.  When you join Roosters Rugby, you are joining a community of rugby enthusiasts.  Our alumni and their families span the globe and have built lifelong relationships through their involvement with our club.  

The membership fees for Roosters Youth Rugby are designed to be affordable. We want rugby to be accessible for everyone and aid and payment plans are available upon request. Fall 2024 registration is $250 ($225 before 9/15/24).

Please click the following link to register for the Fall 2024 Roosters Rugby 7s Season:  https://forms.gle/GARAAZTKoCPUv4tu5

The Roosters Youth Rugby has 3 playing seasons.  Fall:  September-December, Winter/Spring: January-May,  Summer: June-August.  Generally, Fall and Summer are 7s seasons and Spring is a 15s season.  If we do not have the numbers for a full team for the 15s season, we will continue playing 7s or another variation of rugby.  There are tournaments year-round for 7s rugby both in and outside the US that we will consider attending.  Seasonal dues do not include the costs for travel/hotel to overnight tournaments.