The easiest way to find a rugby club is to use your national union’s online club finder, shortlist a few clubs near you, and go along to a training session. Most clubs welcome beginners, including adults who have never played, and many run several teams: men’s and women’s senior sides, youth and junior sections, social or development teams, veterans’ teams, and non-contact options such as touch and tag rugby. Before joining, ask about training times, membership fees and insurance, which teams the club runs, whether it has development squads for new players, and whether coaches are qualified. Visit, meet the people and choose the club where you feel welcome, since the social side of rugby is one of its biggest rewards.
Health note: This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have health conditions, previous injuries or have been inactive for a long time, check with a doctor before starting a contact sport. Clubs should provide qualified coaching, first aid and clear concussion procedures.
Where to look
- National union websites: Most rugby unions have a club finder tool that lists clubs by location and team type.
- Local sports directories and social media: Clubs often advertise recruitment days and beginner sessions online.
- Universities and colleges: Student rugby clubs are often very welcoming to new players.
- Schools and community sports centers: Many offer youth rugby or can point you to local clubs.
- Workplaces and friends: Colleagues or friends who play can introduce you to their club.
- Touch and tag leagues: Social non-contact leagues are an easy way into the rugby community.
What to ask a club
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Do you take beginners? | Some clubs have development squads or new player programs |
| When is training? | Make sure it fits your schedule |
| What are the fees? | Membership and insurance costs vary |
| Which teams do you run? | Men’s, women’s, youth, touch, sevens, veterans |
| Are coaches qualified? | Safety and player development |
| What is the social side like? | Rugby clubs are often community hubs |
| Is there a concussion policy? | Player welfare and safety |
How to join a club step by step
- Search your national union’s club finder and list nearby clubs.
- Check each club’s website or social media for training times and contacts.
- Contact the club to say you are interested and ask about beginners.
- Attend a training session, bringing boots, a mouthguard, training kit and water.
- Tell the coach your experience level and any injuries.
- Try a few sessions before deciding.
- Register and pay membership, which usually includes insurance through the union.
- Get involved socially to meet teammates and settle in.
Options for adults
Adults can start rugby at almost any age. Many clubs have lower teams or development squads where new players can learn skills and build confidence before playing competitive matches. For those who want to avoid contact, touch and tag rugby leagues are widely available and often mixed-gender. Veterans’ rugby caters to older players, sometimes with modified rules. Women’s rugby has grown rapidly, and many clubs actively recruit new players with beginner-friendly sessions.
Options for children and teenagers
Youth sections, sometimes called minis and juniors, cater for children from young ages up to the late teens. Younger children usually start with tag or touch rugby, and contact is introduced gradually according to national age-grade rules. Parents should look for clubs with qualified, safeguarding-trained coaches, a clear concussion policy and an inclusive approach to playing time. Many schools also offer rugby, which can lead to club involvement.
What to bring to your first session
- Rugby boots or suitable football boots, depending on the club’s advice.
- A mouthguard, required for contact training in many clubs.
- Training kit: shorts, socks, a T-shirt or training top and warm layers.
- Water and a small snack.
- Trainers for warm-ups or hard surfaces.
- A towel and change of clothes.
What to expect at your first training session
Most clubs are used to welcoming new players and will pair you with experienced teammates or a coach who can explain the basics. A typical session starts with a warm-up, followed by handling drills such as passing and catching, then contact skills or game-related practice, and often ends with a small-sided game. As a beginner, you will usually start with non-contact or low-intensity drills and learn how to tackle, carry the ball and fall safely before taking part in full contact. Do not worry about knowing all the laws; teammates and coaches will explain them as you go. Ask questions, listen to instructions and focus on learning rather than impressing anyone on your first night.
Understanding club membership
Joining a rugby club usually involves paying an annual membership fee, which often covers insurance through the national union, access to coaching and facilities, and sometimes match fees or kit. Some clubs charge separate match fees or ask for contributions toward travel and social events. Many offer reduced fees for students, juniors or new players, and some have hardship funds or payment plans. Being a member typically means you can vote at club meetings and take part in the club’s social life. Registering properly is important, since unregistered players may not be covered by insurance.
Other ways to get involved
Playing is not the only way to be part of a rugby club. Clubs rely on volunteers for coaching, refereeing, first aid, team management, fundraising and running events. Many people who start as players later become coaches or referees, and some people join clubs purely as supporters or volunteers. National unions often offer courses in coaching and refereeing for beginners, which are a great way to learn the game in depth and contribute to the community. Referees, in particular, are always in demand at grassroots level.
Moving to a new area
If you move to a new city or country, joining a rugby club is one of the fastest ways to build a social network. Rugby clubs are known for welcoming newcomers, and the shared experience of training and matches helps friendships form quickly. Contact the club before your first visit, explain your experience level and ask which team or session suits you best.
Choosing the right club
The best club for you depends on your goals. If you want to compete seriously, look for a club with strong coaching and clear pathways. If you mainly want fitness and friendship, a club with a welcoming social team may suit you better. Consider travel time, training days, costs and the atmosphere when you visit. Many players stay with the same club for years, so it is worth finding one where you feel at home.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Joining without visiting a training session first.
- Not mentioning previous injuries to coaches.
- Starting full contact too quickly without learning technique.
- Ignoring the social side, which helps new players settle in.
- Forgetting a mouthguard.
Frequently asked questions
Can adults start rugby from scratch?
Yes. Many clubs welcome adult beginners and offer development teams or beginner sessions.
Is there non-contact rugby for adults?
Yes. Touch and tag rugby leagues are common and often mixed.
What should I bring to my first rugby session?
Boots, a mouthguard, training kit, warm layers and water.
