I See co-ed junior high and boys' High school teams. Do you offer a girls high school team?

At this time we do not offer a girls high school team. This is largely due to the time commitment required to coach and maintain a team and a lack of current interest in the community. If you are interested in playing or coaching a girls team in the fall season, please contact us. We are always willing to expand our programs or direct you to another program that can accomodate you.

Do you offer a flag rugby program?

At this time we do not offer a flag rugby program. If we get enough community interest we may add a flag rugby program for 3-5th graders and 6th graders not ready for contact. This would also require a volunteer coach. If you are interested in coaching please contact us.

I see your players do not wear helmets or pads. Is rugby dangerous?

Rugby is a full contact sport, and as such there are dangers inherent to the game. Some of these dangers include, but are not limited to, bruises, cuts, sprains, broken bones, and concussion. As a player and/or parent of a player, it is your duty to become informed of the hazards of the game and decide whether those hazards are acceptable to you. As coaches, we will do our best to honestly answer any questions you may have regarding player welfare and safety.

That said, our coaching staff is trained in safer tackling techniques that help to remove the head from the tackle and reduce the chance of concussion. We are also trained to recognize the symptoms of concussion and if those symptoms are present or suspected, we will remove your child from play until he is cleared by a medical doctor to return to play, or at our discretion - whichever comes later. In addition, our coaches are trained in CPR and basic first aid, and a certified trainer or first responder will be present for ALL matches.

I have never played rugby before. Can I play on your team?

Of course! The basics of rugby are relatively easy to learn. Our coaches have worked with all ages and skill levels and can teach you what you need to know to get started. Rugby is known as a welcoming and inclusive sport, and your new teammates will also do their best to help you improve. Best of all, if you practice, you will play. We believe players cannot improve unless they experience real competition. In most cases, if you do not play in a match, a second, shorter match will be added so that less experienced players are included.

I don't attend kentwood schools. Can I still play?

Kentwood Rugby is a club rugby program and is not affiliated with Kentwood Public Schools. As a club program we are allowed to accept students from other schools or accredited high school diploma granting programs. There are some age requirements that must be met. Contact us with any questions.

I paid my school's athletic fee. Do I still need to pay club Dues?

Yes. Kentwood Rugby is a club rugby program and is not affiliated with Kentwood (or any other) Public Schools. As a club program we are responsible for our own funding. Club dues pay for registration with our governing bodies, field space, equipment, rentals, medical personnel and referees, and some of the food for post game dinners.

I would like to try rugby before I pay dues. may I come to a practice?

Certainly! You will need to have a parent or guardian fill out our practice liability waiver, and you may be asked not to participate in some contact drills. We also usually have an open try-out week in February or early March (date TBD).

You MAY NOT participate in a rugby match until you are fully registered. Contact us for more information regarding practice locations and times.

why is high school rugby more expensive than junior high rugby?

Our high school programs feature a longer season, more games, and a playoff structure not found in the junior high season.

I'm a parent. How can I be involved in the club?

We're so glad you asked! We are always looking for support from our club families. You could help with post-game meals, transportation, or even some sideline duties (if you are willing to get certified). We are also always looking for youth coaches who are certified or willing to become certified. Contact us for more details!

Do you provide bussing to matches?

We DO NOT currently provide bussing to matches. We generally carpool, and ride situations are discussed at practice the day before the match.

Still have a question?

You said if I practice, I'll play, but I didn't get to play in the last game. Why?

We do our best to give everyone a reasonable amount of play time. However, there are some circumstances when we may be unable to do so. Occasionally teams must back out of a promised third half due to injuries or other extenuating circumstances. Playoff games are limited to a 23 man roster and third halves are not played. In general, we strive to make sure you are seeing competition at or near your ability on a regular basis.

I want to play, but my family is having some financial difficulties. What can i Do?

We have a limited number of partial or full scholarships available based on need. Please contact us and let us know what your situation is. There are several generous people in our community who want to make sure you can play if you want to. We humbly ask that you consider paying it forward in the future, so that others may benefit in the same way.