The Clayton Rugby Football Club is thrilled to announce that registration for the 2026/2027 membership cycle is open! This season promises to be another great one with more rugby, a full calendar of social events, and expanded activities for members of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned player, new to the club, or simply someone who loves the game and its community, there’s a place for you at the Clayton RFC.
What’s New This Season
We’ve listened to our members and worked hard to bring more rugby and more fun to our local community:
- Increased Home Matches – More opportunities to play in front of friends and family at the Johnston County Rugby Park;
- 1st XV Promoted to Division 3 – Our 1st XV has been promoted to D3 which brings a stronger, more competitive fixture list;
- The return of the Killer Bs – Our 2nd XV will have a shorter schedule of matches (4-5 games) compared to our 1st XV, but provides playing opportunities for players new to the sport, people that only want to play socially, and Old Boys that want to play some more rugby;
- Regularly Scheduled Social Events – From post match gatherings to special club nights, there’s something for everyone;
- Youth Opportunities – Continued growth of our Flag Rugby program for ages 4–10, building the next generation of players along with further collaboration with Clayton Youth Rugby;
- Home Events – Our Toys for Tots event returns in December for its 8th year anniversary. This year also saw the return of the Blackbeard Beach 7s which we aim to keep rolling in 2027!
- More Non-Contact Rugby – We’re expanding touch rugby and walking rugby opportunities to offer it more consistently throughout the year. These versions of the game allow players to continue playing rugby without the bumps and bruises that come with full contact play.
Membership Levels for 2026/2027
Adult Playing Membership – $150/year
- Participate in club matches at any level: 1st XV, 2nd XV, 7s, Old Boys (35+), or Touch Rugby;
- As with last season, dues are bundled with your USA Rugby and CGRU registration. One payment covers it all. Registration is required to be eligible to play in any USA Rugby sanctioned matches;
- Attend all club matches, social events, and special gatherings;
- Full voting rights on any club business;
- Receive club newsletters.
Social Membership (Non-Playing, Non-Voting) – $30/year
- Perfect for supporters who want to be part of the action without stepping on the pitch;
- Attend all club matches, social events, and special gatherings;
- Receive club newsletters;
- Participation in Touch and Walking Rugby sessions;
- Volunteer opportunities.
Youth Playing Membership (Flag Rugby ages 4–10) – $50/season (Opens January 2027)
- Winter/Spring season of fun, fast-paced Flag Rugby;
- Local jamborees and opportunities to play against other Flag Rugby teams;
- A safe and welcoming introduction to the sport for our youngest athletes;
- Free youth clinics throughout the year
- Parents eligible for social membership in the Clayton RFC.
Why Join Clayton RFC?
Clayton RFC is more than just a rugby club. Members enjoy competitive and social rugby options, great social experiences, and the chance to be part of one of the most active rugby clubs in the region. Our home, the Johnston County Rugby Park, is one of only a few purpose built rugby facilities in the entire state.
Registration for adult playing members is handled through USA Rugby’s online portal. Social members can continue to register directly through the club using the link below. Youth registration will open shortly after the New Year.
Mark your calendars, spread the word, and join us for an unforgettable 2026/2027 season.
About Clayton RFC
Founded in 2013, the Clayton Rugby Football Club is a community-focused, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to growing the sport of rugby in Johnston County and the surrounding area. The club fields men’s teams, a youth flag rugby program, and is committed to fostering a culture of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and competitive spirit both on and off the pitch.
To learn more about the club or if you’d like to join, please contact us at info@claytonrfc.com
