NIAGARA UNIVERSITY RUGBY CLUB

INTRODUCTION
Many college campuses turned to the sport of rugby because it was one where many could play and escape the rigid discipline and professionalism inherited in college football.   Minimal costs, constant action and the opportunity for frequent play with the primary emphasis on fun also attracts many colleges to offer rugby.  Currently there are approximately 410 college campuses that offer rugby as an activity for students to participate in.

The Niagara University Rugby Club has a tradition of competitive rugby that offers excitement, fun and entertainment.  Participation in rugby can give an individual who played high school football the satisfaction of playing a sport that is very similar to football.

REQUIREMENTS AND FUNDING
Students must maintain a cumulative 2.0 QPA.  The rugby team is funded by money received from the Niagara University Student Government Association (NUSGA), fund raising activities and player dues.  Player dues have been traditionally about $20 per semester.  All club sports are required to perform community service to receive funds that have been allocated byt he NUSGA.

TRYOUTS, PRACTICES AND GAMES
Tryouts begin in early September at the Niagara University Rugby Field that is located behind the Kiernan Center.  Notices are posted around campus and in the dorms.   The roster usually consists of approximately 25-30 players.  The team is part of the new York State Rugby Conference (NYSRC).  Some members of the conference include Syracuse, St. John Fisher, Buffalo State, Ithaca College, St. Bonaventure, Fredonia, Geneseo, Lemoyne, etc.  The rugby season usually runs September - October.   A modified spring season usually takes place during April and May.

QUESTIONS
University Club Administrator - John Spanbauer at 286-8055/email: kjs@niagara.edu