FAQs
At Woodlands Youth Rugby Club, we know parents and players have questions - whether you’re brand new to rugby or a returning family. This page is here to make things easy, with quick answers about registration, schedules, safety, and what makes rugby such a unique sport. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to contact us - we’re always happy to help!
REGISTRATION AND SEASON INFO
Q: Who can join Woodlands Youth Rugby Club?
A: WYRC is an open club, welcoming boys and girls in grades 1–12 from across The Woodlands and surrounding communities. Our players come from many different school districts all over the area, and no prior rugby experience is required.
Q: How do I register my child?
A: Registration is easy! Visit our Registration page to complete the online form, view payment details, and read through our FAQs about fees and scholarships. WYRC believes rugby should be accessible to all families, so we offer full and partial scholarships based on need.
Q: Does WYRC offer financial assistance?
A: Yes. WYRC is committed to making rugby accessible for all families. We provide scholarship opportunities to help cover registration and equipment costs.
Q: Do you receive anything when you register your player with WYRC?
A: Yes. Besides CIPP (registration and insurance with USA Rugby), each player will receive:
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A performance tee or singlet for match-day warmups
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Game Day Rugby Jersey (remains WYRC property for U13 and up)
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Shorts and socks
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Access to a practice and game-day trainer
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The guidance of passionate, volunteer coaches
Q: What age group will my child play in?
A: Your child's age as of September 1st will determine what age group he/she will play in. Age groups are listed below.
Age 6 - 7 - Team U8
Age 8 - 9 - Team U10
Age 10 - 11 - Team U12
Age 12 - 13 - Team U14
Age 14, but in 8th grade - Team U14
Age 14, but in 9th grade - High School**
Age 15, but in 8th grade - High School
Ages 15, 16, 17, 18 - High School=AgAg
(**Need Rugby Texas Waiver)
Q: What equipment does my child need to play rugby?
A: Players need cleats, a mouthguard, and comfortable athletic wear. Jerseys are provided by the club. Optional items like padded headgear may also be used.
Q: When does the rugby season start?
A: WYRC teams follow slightly different timelines:
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High School Girls: September through May
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High School Boys: November through May
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Youth (U8–U14): A “Come and Try Rugby” program begins in November (once a week), with the regular season running from December through April.
Q: Where do WYRC teams practice and play?
A: WYRC practices and home matches are held at fields throughout The Woodlands and surrounding areas. Locations may vary from season to season, so please visit our Locations page for the most up-to-date field details and directions. Away matches are scheduled against Rugby Texas teams across the state.
Q: If my child plays for a single school or another club, can they also play for WYRC?
A: No. Per Rugby Texas protocol, once a player registers with a team through USA Rugby, they cannot change teams until the following season.
TEAMS AND PROGRAMS
Q: What age groups and teams will be represented?
A: WYRC has age-grade programs for both girls and boys starting at under 8 years of age (U8) and extending into High School (U18).
Q: Can you tell me more about the programs?
A: WYRC is focused on skills development and fun. Teams practice twice a week and typically play matches on the weekends. The emphasis is on learning, growth, and teamwork.
Q: In which league will the WYRC play?
A: WYRC competes within Rugby Texas, playing most matches against teams within a daytrip distance. Out-of-league play may include travel opportunities.
Q: What is meant by “Progression of Play”?
A: Safety is our top priority. WYRC follows the Progression of Play guidelines set by Rugby Texas. These age-appropriate rules ensure the safest and most enjoyable experience for every player.
Q: Will the WYRC enter a team at the Boys or Girls High School National Rugby Championship?
A: If our teams qualify and are invited, we will attend the National Championships. While competition is important, WYRC’s focus is on skill development, fun, and building a strong rugby foundation.
Q: What’s the connection with College Rugby?
A: WYRC partners with Next Phase Rugby to give high school athletes premium access to college rugby programs, providing recruiting support and opportunities beyond graduation.
SAFETY AND COACHING
Q: Is rugby safe for kids?
A: Yes. Youth rugby is taught with age-appropriate rules, safe tackling techniques, and strong coaching oversight. WYRC emphasizes safety, discipline, and respect at every level.
Q: How is rugby different from football?
A: While rugby and football share some similarities, rugby is played without helmets and heavy pads. It emphasizes continuous play, skill-based tackling, and teamwork.
Q: Will the WYRC provide a trainer at matches?
A: Yes. WYRC provides a certified trainer at each rugby match to ensure player safety.
Q: Are WYRC coaches compensated?
A: No. WYRC coaches are volunteers. However, the club reimburses coaches for additional certifications, first aid training, and travel expenses.
Q: What life skills does rugby teach?
A: Beyond athletic ability, rugby instills teamwork, discipline, sportsmanship, and resilience - skills that benefit players in school, careers, and life.
CLUB AND GOVERNANCE
WYRC is a Texas-registered 501(c)(3) non-profit private corporation run by a dedicated Board of Directors. WYRC's Executive Committee consists of:
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President
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Director of Rugby
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Director of Operations
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Director of Marketing
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Director of Events
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Director of Club Development
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Treasurer
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Secretary
Q: Is the WYRC registered with USA Rugby?
A: Yes. WYRC is registered with USA Rugby. Coaches are certified and background-checked, and all players hold USA Rugby memberships upon registration.
Q: Is the WYRC associated with any schools or community outreach programs?
A: WYRC is an open club, meaning players from any school or neighborhood may join. The club welcomes everyone who wants to help grow the game of rugby.
Q: How is the WYRC funded, and how can I help?
A: WYRC collects seasonal registration fees to cover operating costs but also relies on fundraising and donations to provide scholarships. Donations help ensure more players have the opportunity to participate.
Q: How can I get involved as a parent?
A: Parents can support WYRC by volunteering, cheering on players, or joining as a sponsor. Visit our Partners or Contact page to learn more.
Q: What will the WYRC kit look like, and will there be a merchandise store?
A: WYRC’s colors are Dark Green, Spring Green, White, Black, with Cool Grey and Vegas Gold accents. The kit design is refreshed annually while honoring rugby tradition. WYRC also has a full online merchandise store for players and fans.
OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE PATHWAYS
Q: Are there future collegiate opportunities if I play with WYRC?
A: Yes. WYRC coaches have strong relationships with colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad, as well as academy teams and USA Rugby pathway selectors. With player and parent approval, WYRC assists in sharing game footage and supporting recruiting efforts.
Q: Can rugby help with college opportunities?
A: Absolutely. Rugby is one of the fastest-growing collegiate sports in the U.S., and many programs offer scholarships. WYRC supports players through guidance and our partnership with Next Phase Rugby.
