Joining Our Team

What is rugby?
Rugby is a sport played predominately in Europe and in the Southern Hemisphere. The field is slightly longer and wider than a football field, and the ball is larger and rounder than a football. Each side fields 15 players, and the object is to advance the ball forward by running with it or kicking it. The ball is advanced toward the try zone (similar to the end zone in football) in order to score a try for five points. Balls kicked through the uprights can score two points after a try is awarded, or three points for a penalty kick (like a field goal) or drop goal. One of the most important rules for a new player to learn is that the ball may not be thrown or knocked forwards.

Who can play?
Anyone who is a full time (at least 12 Credits) student at UNC. We encourage any student (even if you have never played rugby before) who enjoys playing contact sports to come out and try rugby.

Our A side is made up of undergraduates only, and our B side does include a few graduate students who often bring a bit of experience to our team. The majority of our team DID NOT play rugby before coming to UNC, and we begin each year by teaching the fundamentals of the game to all of our new players.

Just like in football, a rugby team needs big players to push people around and make tackles and it needs smaller, faster players to score points. The UNC team has players of all shapes, sizes and abilities.

Due to limited funds, UNCRFC is not able to provide scholarships or financial aid to members of the team.

When is practice?
Training sessions are held throughout both the fall and spring semesters every Monday and Wednesday night at 8:15pm. Match preparation is held on Fridays at 5:00pm.

Where are practices held?
Practices and home matches are held on Ehringhaus Rugby Field or occasionally on Hooker Field.

If you are interested in playing or you have more questions, please email Jose Estrada.