Adults curious about rugby will have a chance to learn more about the sport and meet local players during an upcoming "Come Try Rugby" event hosted by the Eastman Warriors Rugby Club.
The event is designed for beginners but is open to anyone interested in learning about the game, regardless of previous experience.
Club president Kylee Tonita says the goal is to introduce people to both the sport and the community that surrounds it.
"Rugby is an amazing community. It's just welcoming and you're going to come out, see some cool stuff like the lifts. We're going to talk about a scrum. We're going to show you all the cool things about rugby."
Participants will have an opportunity to learn some of the sport's basic elements, including scrums and non-contact versions of the game. A shared meal will follow the activities.
Focus on adult development
While the Eastman Warriors have previously operated youth programming, Tonita says the club's focus this season is on adults.
"We did run a kids rugby program in the past, but we're not this year, at least at this point, but we're really focusing on the adult development for this year."
The club is open to male and female players aged 18 and older.
Tonita believes one of rugby's biggest draws is the sense of community that exists both within teams and among opponents.
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A sport built on respect
Rugby is often viewed as a physically demanding sport, but Tonita says newcomers are frequently surprised by the respect shown between competing teams.
"When you go to a game or you meet other players from different teams, it's just this amazing community that supports each other and is so full of camaraderie that it will blow you away, just how kind everybody is to each other."
That culture extends onto the field, even during scrums, where players from opposing teams come together in one of rugby's most recognizable formations.
"It's very respectful. So in the scrum, you're getting ready, you're setting up, there's no chirping at the other team."
Tonita says players still compete hard, but the emphasis remains on safety and fair play.
More than just competition
For many players, rugby's appeal goes beyond the physical aspects of the game.
Tonita says practices often begin with touch rugby, a non-contact version that helps players build skills while keeping things lighthearted.
She says newcomers are often surprised by how quickly they become engaged in the sport.
"I think how addictive it is. It's really just fun."
Those attending the Come Try Rugby event are encouraged to bring water and wear suitable athletic footwear.
The event takes place Wednesday, June 3rd, 7pm-9pm at the A.D. Penner Park rugby field.
"I would advise already show up around 6:45 just so you can meet everybody before we get into some touch and some fun."
-Written with files from Carly Koop.
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