Get into your Community: Growing the Game Means Showing Up
Growing rugby means getting outside the rugby bubble. From festivals and farmers markets to schools, charity events and community celebrations, opportunities to introduce new people to the game are everywhere. Here are some simple ideas—and real KC events, where our rugby community can show up, get a ball in someone’s hands and grow the game together.
The Players Are Already There. Why Aren’t Rugby Clubs Going to Meet Them?
Rugby clubs are always looking for new players but are we overlooking the easiest place to find them? High school and college programs are full of players who already know and love the game, yet too many disappear from rugby after graduation. It may be time to rethink recruiting, build stronger connections between programs, and create a clear path from youth rugby to high school, college, and lifelong club rugby.
Culture Before Championships: What KC Can Learn from the Chicago Lions
What makes a rugby club thrive for more than 60 years? During a visit to the Chicago Lions, I had the opportunity to learn from longtime leader Bob Maszkowski and Youth Rugby Director Ahn Gallagher about the culture, leadership, and intentional pathways that have made the Lions one of America's premier rugby organizations. From youth development and volunteer engagement to community partnerships and long-term planning, this article explores the lessons KC can apply as we work to grow rugby through the KC Metro Rugby Foundation. It's a story about much more than rugby…it's about building communities that last for generations.
Rugby Clubs Should Compete on the Field, Not Off It
"Why are rugby clubs always fighting over players?"
"Maybe they're asking the wrong question."
What if the real competition isn't the club across town, but the thousands of kids and families who've never been introduced to rugby?
This blog explores why growing programs for younger ruggers, increasing community visibility, and working together will do more for the game than competing with one another ever could. Because a rising tide lifts all ships. (and clubs)
Grow Rugby Where It Starts: How & Why to bring Rugby into KC Elementary Schools
Growing rugby starts long before high school—it starts in the elementary school gym. This article explores a simple, proven strategy for introducing rugby to local PE classes by equipping teachers with easy-to-use lesson plans, fun rainy-day activities, and the resources they need to confidently teach the basics of the game. Learn how clubs across the Kansas City metro can build lasting relationships with schools, create a clear pathway for families to local youth programs, and develop the next generation of players, coaches, referees, and supporters. Sustainable rugby growth begins one classroom, one school, and one child at a time.
KC Can Become a Host City for Rugby World Cup: But the Work Starts Now
KC Rugby World Cup Matches: It All Begins Here