Rookie Rugby Contacts
National Program Manager:
Mike Lovinguth, Manager of Youth Programs, USA Rugby
303-539-0311 x104
mlovinguth@usarugby.org
What is Rookie Rugby
Rookie Rugby is the introductory game for rugby in America. Kids, parents, teachers, fans, referees and coaches learn and compete in a simplified version of rugby played with flag belts. The rules and programs of Rookie Rugby tie together child development, healthy activity, fair play, fun and safety. Rookie Rugby is the official start of the player pathway for USA Rugby and is used in PE classrooms, after-school programs, community programs and rugby clubs throughout the USA.
Rookie Rugby Membership
Rookie Rugby players can access all the benefits of a USA Rugby Membership by joining USA Rugby as a “Rookie Rugby Member”. Register through your team or State Rugby Organization for access to these benefits. Memberships run from date of purchase through August 31st.
Development Focused
All types of rugby are free flowing and feature continuous play. Small sides of players work as a team to move the ball across their opponent’s goal line to score a try. These features place an emphasis on skill building, fitness through game-play and developmentally appropriate rules. Rugby has long held a set of core values— Integrity, Passion, Solidarity, Discipline, Respect. Rookie Rugby continues these values and adds the value of friendship to its core principles.