Students are looking forward to the spring season coming soon, and with it, the anticipated rugby season at Eagle High. Both the girls’ and the boys’ teams are warming up this season to show off their skills on the pitch.
Rugby 15’s is similar to the 7’s season that is played during the fall, but with longer games and more players out at one time. Each team plays with 15 players on a football sized field, and the game is divided into two 40-minute halves, where teams aim to score points by carrying, passing and kicking the ball to score a try (which is similar to a touchdown from football) in their goal area.
The sport emphasizes teamwork, strategy and physical endurance, making it both challenging and exciting to play and to watch. Rugby is considered to be a gentleman’s sport, and is characterized by respect shown for the referees, whom players call “sir,” and for their opponents.
The 2024 rugby season was very successful at Eagle High, and there are high hopes that this year will go just as well. The girls’ team clinched a first-place win in the 15’s national championship, marking the first time a team from Idaho has won this title. Their victory not only highlighted the exceptional talent within the team but also brought Idaho to the map for the Rugby landscape.
The 2024 season also went very well for the boys’ team. They demonstrated impressive dedication and skill throughout the season and were able to secure a win in the state championships for the second year in a row.
“Our team this year is the best Eagle has ever had,” said senior captain Gavin Crawford. “We have high hopes of not only winning state again, but of competing for a national title.”
Both teams are very eager to build upon the success of their past few years. The boys began practicing every weekday starting on Jan. 22, and at their practices they focus on the fundamentals of rugby and getting everyone on the team up to speed. They condition multiple frequently at every practice in preparation for their first game, which is on Feb. 22 against Twin Falls.
“The team has developed so fast and has promising hopes to be the best Eagle High team yet,” said senior captain Andrew Snyder.
The girls began their practices as well and are dedicated to improving and sharpening skills from last year as well as from the fall 7’s season. On Mondays, they practice safe contact in the wrestling room and then lift weights. On Tuesdays they work on defensive alignment and tackling techniques and Wednesdays they work on offensive structure and passing. Thursdays, they work on a mixture of defense and offense. They also do intense conditioning every day to prepare themselves for the season.
“I thought that preseason was amazing,” said freshman Brinlee Ball. “Even though it was not technically the real season, everyone still had so much energy and would give 110% in everything that they did.”
What really stands out about the two teams, though, past their impressive past achievements, is their inclusivity and positive demeanors.
“I love how much fun we have during practices and how we can all joke around with each other,” said forward senior, Lucy Taylor. “We are so close and can give each other feedback on our play that feels very uplifting and encouraging.”
The players are very welcoming to anyone who is willing to try something new and join the team. They enjoy how they are able to become what truly feels like a family.
“The reason I love rugby so much is because of the team,” Ball said. “Everyone is so supportive and helpful, and it is just so much fun. I love my team.”
Rugby at Eagle High is more than just a sport, it is a community that fosters friendship, discipline and personal growth. Regardless of being a returning player or new to the game, Rugby offers and inclusive environment for all. The Mustang’s plan is to put in hard work as they start another thrilling season.
