Your First Rugby Practice

So, curious about Denver’s new gay rugby team? We hope you can come out to one of our practices. Here’s some questions you might have;

Do I need to know how to play Rugby?
Nope. We are accepting player of all skill levels and experience. Most of the current players are new to the sport. If you know nothing about the sport, don’t feel uncomfortable. [If you want more information about rugby basics, here’s a link HERE]

I don’t think I’m built like a rugby player?
There really is no standard “rugby player build”. Rugby is one of the few sports that benefits from players of varying builds and sizes. Whether you’re big and beefy, or small and wiry, you can still play. Rugby is a sport for all shapes and sizes.

Isn’t rugby dangerous?
Rugby is actually a relatively safe game, especially compared to American football. We’ll teach you how to safely tackle and handle contact situations with the strong parts of your body. Plus the rules of the game emphasize safe play. Because we don’t play with all those pads, guys are much less likely to go all out when they hit each other.

What if I’m not good at sports?
Neither were we. You don’t know if you’re good at rugby until you try.

Do I have to be gay to play on the team?
Nope. While we are a team aimed at getting gay folks in to playing rugby, we’re accepting of anyone regardless of their orientation, ethnic background or race. Inclusiveness is the whole point of our team.

What do I need to bring to my first practice?
Athletic shoes – Bring comfortable athletic shoes. You’re going to be doing a lot of running in the grass. Eventually, you will want to invest in Rugby cleats (which are different than football cleats!), but standard athletic shoes will do fine for your first couple of practices.
Comfortable clothes – Again, you’re going to be doing a lot of running, so dress appropriately.
Sunscreen!
Water – Bring lots of water; you don’t want to dehydrate.
Eventually, if you play contact, you will want to purchase a mouth-guard. We can answer more of your questions about equipment at practices.

Where and when are practices?
Practices are always on Saturdays at Cheesman Park. Check the newest post for more information.

What’s the “Drink Up”, or “Third Half”?
Part of the rugby tradition are “socials”; getting together after a game or practice to have a drink. We meet afterwards at the British Bulldog Pub, 2052 Stout St, Denver, CO 80205.

Can I just come and watch?
Absolutely! Come out to a practice and see if rugby is something you might be interested in. And bring a friend.

Have more questions? Feel free to email us at wildfirerugby@gmail.com