Frequently asked questions

Rugby is an incredible sport played globally and is becoming more popular in the United States! It is a game where an oval-shaped ball is passed backwards to players who are trying to score by touching the ball in their opponent’s try zone (“end zone”). USA Rugby has a detailed Rugby 101 if you would like to learn more.

The sport is physically demanding and provides each individual with many health benefits, including strength training and cardio as well as the opportunity to work out with a team. With 15 unique positions, every person’s strengths, abilities, and body type can be utilized no matter where they are in their fitness journey.

The community of ruggers is like no other sport, where a special bond forms amongst teammates and opposing teams. Teamwork is essential on the pitch as players must work together to succeed and you will often hear the phrase “with you”. After the games, the competing teams typically gather for a “social” and enjoy much-needed food.

Everyone is welcome to join a team regardless of experience - no tryouts! Many of our adult players joined later in life even though they had never heard of or played rugby before. Our certified coaches will train new players to safely play in a game.

Come check out a practice!

No problem! The CNY Rugby coaching staff is very experienced in teaching players to tackle safely and effectively. Just bring the right mindset, and we will help you become a force on the field.

While it may look intimidating from the sideline, there are actually several game rules (known in rugby as laws) to keep players safe. CNY Rugby coaches teach players to tackle safely, which limits head trauma and direct collisions. Proper tackling technique combined with effective implementation of the laws through referee game management and yellow/red cards ensures that rugby is safer than one might initially expect for a contact sport.

Yes! Rugby is a rapidly expanding sport and many colleges have club teams where high school players can continue their rugby career. Some colleges offer limited scholarships to play the sport. CNY Rugby players have even earned accolades such as All-American and D1 National Champion. We love to see our players push themselves to the next level and play after they graduate high school.

Register for the Collegiate Rugby 101 Webinar, designed for both players and parents to learn how to navigate the college rugby journey.

We’re excited for you to join! Read more below to find the team that matches you and to start the registration process.

Everyone is welcome to join CNY Rugby, and we have a team for all ages and genders! Many of our adult players actually started in their 20s or later. We’re excited to offer playing opportunities for kids in Grades K-12.

Flag Rugby: This touch rugby program is open for Grades K-12. For kids in Grades 6+ who are not ready for tackle rugby, we welcome you to learn rugby through this introductory program.

Middle School Tackle Rugby: Grades 5-8

High School Tackle Rugby: Grades 9-12, although we will consider 8th graders on a case-by-case basis with parental/guardian permission and if they are ready for the higher level.

The high school and middle school teams play their main season in the spring, while flag rugby is available in both the spring and fall. The practice dates and times are TBD for the Spring 2024 season.

Note that practices begin promptly at the times below. Plan to arrive about 15 minutes in advance so you are geared up and ready to start on time.

Flag Rugby:

• Wednesdays at 6 to 7 pm from May 7 to June 11, 2025

• O’Connor Park at 301 Velasko Road in Syracuse, NY

Middle School:

• Schedule TBD

• O’Connor Park at 301 Velasko Road in Syracuse, NY

High School: Indoor practices typically start in March. Due to facility availability and the weather, the schedule varies at the start of the season. Teams typically practice 2-3 times per week. Please check the full schedule on the Silverbacks and Silver Hawks team pages.

Adult Teams: Please check out the Chargers and Uticuse team websites to learn more about their schedules.

Flag Rugby: This program is an introduction rugby with non-contact drills and games hosted during each Wednesday session at our home field in Syracuse.

Middle and High School: Games are played in the spring in Syracuse, Buffalo, Rochester, and Corning. Some tournaments are held on college campuses. Teams often coordinate carpooling for their players to help reduce the stress of travel.

Adult Teams: Please check out their websites to learn more about their schedule. Their division games are typically in the fall with some tournaments and friendly games in the spring.

Cleats, a mouthguard, and athletic clothing

Practices: Bring water as well as clothing appropriate for the weather. In Central NY, players will typically want layers for the cold or rainy days.

Games: The teams supply players with jerseys, shorts, and socks. Typically there is team water, but it is recommended to bring your own water and snacks.

You are part of a team and others rely on you. We encourage players to attend all events but recognize that you may have scheduling conflicts with school, family, or work commitments. The schedule is set in advance of the season, which will hopefully give sufficient time for coordinating with your employer and other organizations.

If you cannot attend one of the scheduled practices or games, please alert your coach as soon as possible and in advance of the event so they can plan accordingly.

The goal is to notify players and parents of the cancellation at least 2-3 hours before practice, although sometimes there are uncontrollable weather conditions or circumstances that may cause a last-minute cancellation. Notifications are sent through the team’s preferred communication method, which you will be added to when you join the team.

We follow the school policy in the event of lighting and/or thunder - seek shelter and do not return to play until it’s clear for 30 minutes.

Flag Rugby: $60

Middle School: $120

High School: $210

The adult teams have their own club fees, which can be found on the Uticuse and Chargers websites.

Yes, CNY Rugby offers financial support since we strive to eliminate cost as a limiting factor for participation. If you are interested in learning more about this assistance, please email cnyyouthrugby@gmail.com and/or ask your coach.

Flag Rugby: Players must register before the first session on May 8, 2024.

Middle and High School: Players are encouraged to register before the start of the season on March 6, 2024. We welcome players to attend a practice or two as a trial, where they can observe and participate in non-contact activities. Players cannot participate in tackle drills and games until they are registered.

Registration for flag rugby, middle school, and high school is through Rugby Xplorer. In the upper right corner, click “Register” to login or create an account if you are a new player and registering for the first time.

Video tutorials are available here through USA Youth & High School Rugby.

CNY Rugby is not affiliated with any schools. Everyone in the area is welcome to join.