Rugby is the fastest-growing girls sport in the United States — and the DMV is one of the most active regions in the country. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.
Full Inclusion
Rugby is one of the few sports where every size, speed, and body type finds a position. Forwards and backs play completely different roles.
College Pathways
D1 college rugby programs are growing fast and actively recruiting. The EGRL was built specifically to create a recruiting showcase for East Coast players.
Serious Fitness
Training combines speed work, strength, and contact skills. Players regularly describe rugby as the best conditioning of their athletic careers.
Travel & Community
Tours, tournaments, and the tight-knit community of a contact sport create bonds that last well past high school.
Start with the Teams directory to find a club near you. Most DMV clubs are actively recruiting and welcome players with no prior experience. If you’re between clubs, some teams combine rosters — reach out to any nearby club and they’ll point you in the right direction.
Additional resources: USA YHS club finder · play-rugby.us zip code lookup
Rugby clubs are welcoming to beginners. Coaches will walk you through the basics — passing, catching, and positioning — before any contact work. Most programs have experienced players who help newcomers learn the game. You will not be thrown into contact until you’re comfortable and the coach has cleared it.
- Mouthguard — essential, often mandatory. Custom-fit is better.
- Cleats — football or soccer cleats work. Rugby-specific cleats have more stud options.
- Shorts and socks — many clubs provide a kit, or you can buy separately.
- Rugby ball — helpful but not required for first practice.
- Scrum cap / headgear — optional but common at the contact level.
Kit (jersey, shorts, socks) is usually sold through the club or a supplier like Steamroller Rugby Supply (Bel Air, MD) — the go-to local supplier for mid-Atlantic clubs.