Quad City Rugby is organizing a rugby camp at the TBK Bank Sports Complex in the Quad Cities March 14 thru 17th. Attached is a flyer and a link to our facebook page https://fb.me/e/1D30nHtAy and we would like to invite all interested athletes to attend. It would be a great opportunity for football players to maintain fitness and learn added skills such as improving tackling techniques. There are equal opportunities for boys and girls.
The "Introduction to Rugby" spring camp with TBK Bank Sports Complex is a rugby training camp to prepare for spring games, festivals and tournaments and will allow the kids to try the sport. At each session we will be focusing on aspects of the game beginning with ball handling and passing, offense, rugby positions and roles of each, set piece plays, kick offs, line outs, scrums, rucks, mauls, how to tackle safely, defense and game play. The camp will have a contact focus but we will progress through that, so it is done safely and gradually without too much intensity. The cost will be $100 for 4 sessions and will cover the costs of field rental and a t-shirt. We are also hoping to have representatives from some of the closest Universities that have rugby programs on one of the nights!
Here is a link to sign up for the camp - https://forms.gle/35W6iBhGTRUXJJGV8
After our spring camp is completed we intend to set up practices each week and designate coaches as a continuation for those that are interested. For contact teams, Rugby Rugby USA requires coaches to be qualified and training courses are available for those that are interested. Teams will also need managers and we are reaching out to sponsors to help pay for gear and jersey sets. If you do know someone that would like to sponsor a team let us know!
Spring games and festivals are already being organized for IL April 22-May22 with a state championship being played June 5th for those teams that qualify. It will involve a little travel each weekend. The festivals are held one day only. We are also discussing with clubs in Iowa to set up games as well. To participate in this it will require a further registration with Rugby USA and cost about $45.
We will be looking to fill rosters for the following teams:
U13 COED - Grades 4-6
U15 Girls - Grades 7-8
U15 Boys - Grades 7-8
High School Girls
High School Boys
For those that may be interested in non-contact Rookie Rugby for the kids, we are also planning free camps in the Summer and touch rugby leagues at TBK. So keep an eye out for those and follow our facebook page or Instagram.
For parents wanting to know more about the sport I can also share this Q&A written by Rugby Virginia:
For our Parents
Rugby is a great sport for your son or daughter, giving them the opportunity to play a game that will teach them how to be a leader on and off the field!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I’ve heard rugby described as ‘football without pads’ – is this accurate?
A: Football is a sport that originated from the game of rugby, but it a much different game. Rugby is a very controlled game with a lot of rules in place to keep all players safe on the field. Although rugby players do not wear pads and protection, they are taught the necessary skills to stay safe and successful on the field.
Q: How can my son/daughter try the sport without getting thrown into a full contact game?
A: Flag rugby is a great option for kids of any age to try the sport without any contact elements. Flag rugby can be played indoors and outdoors in schools or communities. Many kids start playing flag rugby in P.E. class and move into contact programs after learning the basics.
Q: How much will it cost for my child to play rugby?
A: Rugby is one of the lowest cost options for children in the U.S. Costs will vary across state lines and in various programs.
Q: How does USA Rugby protect its athletes?
A: USA Rugby believes in putting a player’s safety above everything else. USA Rugby requires that all rugby coaches register and complete our Level 100 Coaching Certification, which includes a Player Protection Package and a Background Check. Additionally, with every player registration USA Rugby provides Third Party Liability Insurance and Rugby Accident Insurance. We feel that providing these levels of protections keeps our athletes safe and enjoying the game.
Quad City Rugby offers financial assistance for families that qualify. Rugby is all about diversity and inclusiveness for all.
Submitted by Craig Air - Geneseo, IL