FAQ

Rugby is a fast paced, team-oriented, contact sport that originated in England in the 19th Century.

There are two formats: 15 a side (15's) and 7 a side (7's). 15’s involves 40-minute halves and we play it in Fall/Spring. 7’s involves 7-minutes halves and, when we have enough players, we play it in the Summer.

The sport requires every player to pass, catch, kick, tackle, and run. All athletes play bothoffense and defense and there are positions for all body types. The sport is known for being both inclusive and community-minded. Rules are the same for male and female athletes.

For more insight, check out World Rugby’s Beginner’s Guide.

Injuries in rugby are no different than injuries from other sports. While no sport is guaranteed to be free from injuries, rugby is comparatively safe. Bruises, bumps, and scrapes are common among rugby players, but our coaches work hard to create a safe environment and playing conditions for all players by teaching you how to tackle and fall safely.

For more info check out:
https://www.usarugby.org/medical-and-safety/

For The Sabres, you have to be at least 18 years of age. Ruggers range in ages, with some in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, and beyond!

And, no experience is necessary! We will teach you everything you need to know!

No. Any time is a good time! Even if you start in the middle of the season, you will be just as involved.

Caveat: those seeking eligibility for playoffs need to be present long enough to be a part of at least one eligibility match during the season leading up to playoffs start.

Wear work-out clothes that can get dirty, stained, and/or ruined.

Wearing layers is a good idea during colder practices.

Bring water, cleats, a molded mouth guard, and a good attitude.

Wear the “Team Kit”: scrum shorts, knee high navy socks, and a warm up t-shirt. These items can be purchased from the team.

A team jersey will be provided for you during the game.

Bring water, cleats, and a molded mouth guard.

We usually practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Our practices are at one of our many St. Louis parks (usually in the city) with locations determined once the season starts.

Our games are played on Saturdays - also Sundays when at a tournament - and are usually late-morning. Locations are unknown until closer to the season.

We have both home/local and away/travel games.

Our coaches put a lot of time and thought developing the roster, and they are determined by a player's ability to play safely. The more practices you attend, the better you get, and the more playing time you get!

We welcome all types of players to the Sabres and do not "cut" players. If you come to practice, you will get playing time!

If you are unable to pay all or a portion of the finances, don't let this discourage you! Please speak with one of our exec members for options on how to still play.

Team dues are $125 each season. This fee is paid Spring and Fall, but financial aid is available for those who need it.

You will have to register (CIPP) with USA rugby before you play, and the cost for that is about $110. This fee is paid once a year.

You will eventually need a pair of Sabres Rugby shorts (for our League Matches) which cost around $32, but this isn’t a requirement to be allowed to come to practices and some games. A full kit is a little over $62 and includes socks, the embroidered shorts, and a warm-up tee with the Sabres logo printed on it.

Jerseys are owned and provided by the team, so you will not need to purchase a jersey.

Your team dues will go towards the team and help pay for our team expenses. For example, we travel a lot for away games and these funds help cover the hotel rooms we sleep in.

The CIPP with USA Rugby is kind of like Rugby insurance. It just simply covers you from being liable for any injuries to a third party.

We understand that work and/or class is important and a priority.

If you know that you will be unable to attend a practice or game, then you will need to communicate your conflict with coach.