Rugby is a fascinating sport that most people have heard of, but are not familiar with its rules or play style. The game is almost like a combination of soccer and football, where players on each side of the field schematically fight to get the ball to the goal line. In addition, a player can only advance the ball by carrying it forward and pitching it back to their teammates.
There are two types of rugby: 15s and sevens. The more traditional type is 15s, and it is arguably more physical due to the fact that there are 15 players from each team on the field at the same time. Sevens are faster pace, higher scoring and arguably more fun to watch due to the fact that there is a lot more space to run on the field.
This year marks the club rugby team’s 50th anniversary at NC State. The club was started by just five people in 1965.
After an underwhelming 2013 season, the club rugby team is set to bounce back with a strong season after replacing the majority of its coaching staff and obtaining a solid group of recruits.
The new head coach, Brian Ketchem, used to play rugby for the Wolfpack and was almost good enough to play in the national league. According to President/Captain/Treasurer Cam Jernigan, Ketchem has the ability to propel the team to a higher standard this season.
“Our previous coach was here for six years, and he was good, but he wasn’t going to take us to the next level,” Jernigan said. “Coach Ketchem is our one returning staff member, so the guys are comfortable with him.”
In addition, Jernigan believes that they had a good recruiting effort this season, which is one of the biggest keys for the team’s success.
“Recruiting is the life and death of the organization,” Jernigan said. “It was strong my first two years here, and we made it to multiple national championships. However, it was slack last season and we struggled as we barely had enough players show up to the games. But we had about 45 players show up to our game Saturday, so that is a good sign.”
The team has been to five national championships over the past three years, and had one of its games broadcasted nationally on NBC Sports.
The team struggled last season, but has started off the year in dominant fashion, posting a 29-15 win against Wake Forest at home. The team has a tough schedule ahead, as its next home game isn’t until Oct. 25th against Virginia Tech. However, Jernigan believes the team can overcome it.
“Maryland will be tough,” Jernigan said. “And Clemson will be especially tough, considering the fact that they get $50,000 for recruiting purposes while we don’t get any money. They bring people from overseas to come play for their rugby team. But our team is only improving, and we have an opportunity to pull a few upsets late in the season.”
Jernigan notes that rugby is not only fun and competitive, but develops a strong sense of comradery between players both on their team as well as opposing teams. He is encouraging new people to come out and give rugby a try.
“We practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:30,” Jernigan said. “All you need are cleats and athletic wear. No experience is needed. The majority of the team didn’t ever play until college, including myself. Give it three games, by that time you’ll have a good idea of how the game works and whether or not it is right for you.”
He also mentions that it is not limited to a specific body type and that anyone of any size, strength or speed can play.
“The good thing about rugby is that, unlike football or basketball, you don’t need a specific body type to play,” Jernigan said. “You can be 300 pounds or 120 pounds and still be a big contributor for the team. However, it is good to be in shape since it is estimated that players run an average of about four miles every game.”
Rugby will be featured in the 2016 Olympics, and the United States has begun making an effort to support college rugby.
The club rugby team has a tough schedule, but is set to have a good season under new coaching and a strong recruiting class.
