Bootleggers Hosting Rugby Clinic/Tryout Camp

CLAYTON, NC – Rugby has grown exponentially in Johnston County since the sport was introduced to the area in 2012. With hundreds of players from ages 6-50 playing rugby in Clayton and Johnston County, the evidence is tangible, but it is work that is never complete. In an effort to continue to spread the game of rugby to new players, the Clayton Rugby Football Club is hosting an open and FREE Intro to Rugby Clinic/Tryout Camp for potential Men’s players in the area.

The camp is open to Men, age 18 & over, that are interested in learning more about the sport of rugby. It is also open to new Bootleggers and current players that are looking to brush up on their core skills prior to the start of Winter practice in January. Coaches will run players through a session with a heavy focus on introducing the sport in a controlled environment, laying the foundation on core rugby skills such as catching, passing, evasive running, and showing the basics of the rugby-style tackle as well as the breakdown.

“In the past couple of years we’ve found that there is a huge interest in playing rugby throughout Johnston County,” said Club President Ted Hardy. “We hear from interested players on a weekly basis. The biggest issue is turning that interest into an increase in active players for the Bootleggers. New players appear to be reluctant to jump in mid-season and we understand that it is daunting to step into a training situation with players that are experienced. We’re hoping to alleviate those fears and get some guys to take a chance on rugby.”

“It is absolutely vital to our future that we continue to introduce the sport to new players as well as attract experienced players to Clayton. We think this is not only a good way to introduce rugby to new people, but also a way for us to uncover some hidden gems. There are a lot of great athletes in Johnston County that no longer have an organized and competitive sporting outlet. We want them to know that we’re here and we want to work with them.”

This inaugural Intro to Rugby Camp runs from 10am-12pm on Saturday December 31st at East Clayton Community Park. The camp is sponsored by the Clayton RFC and FREE to all that attend.

To learn more about the Clayton Rugby Football Club, please email the club at [email protected]

To register for the camp, fill out the form below:

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