How Much Does It Cost To Play Rugby?
Your Ultimate Guide to Rugby Costs
Are you thinking about diving into the world of rugby, but the potential hit to your wallet has you hesitating at the try line? Fear not! We're here to break down the costs of playing rugby in a way that's easy to breakdown. Whether you're looking to join a local club or aiming to kit out your child for their first season, understanding the financial commitment involved is crucial. So, let's lace up our boots, stick in our gum shields, and tackle the topic head-on.
Although it really shouldn’t, financial factors always come into play when picking a new sport to play. We take a look at some of the prices you might run into when getting kitted out to play rugby union. Being such a popular global sport, you might be surprised that the costs aren’t out of this world.
The Essentials: Membership Costs & Joining Fees
First up, let's talk club memberships. Joining a rugby club is like finding a new family; a family that runs at each other full tilt, but a family nonetheless. Rugby clubs offer memberships to players with prices varying completely on the club, league and even postcode. Clubs try and make this as affordable as possible whilst maintaining the club grounds and coaching staff. Children’s fees are always much lower than adults and student discounts are often offered. These payments can usually be paid monthly or as a one-off payment that covers the entire season.
We got in touch with a few clubs around the country to find out. Some clubs didn’t charge anything from 8 years to 16 as they had great parent support for buying kits and a very robust sponsorship scheme. At the other end of the scale, we found a club that was charging £200 ($250 USD, $370 AUD) a season.
Now each club has its own strategy, just because they charge doesn’t make it a bad club – you may have all the training sessions and kit included within that price. It’s best to ring the local club to find out!
Another great alternative to paying for a club membership are the many community rugby programmes on offer. These offer an excellent way for adults and children of all abilities to get active and socialise through rugby. Often sessions are offered across the country for individuals to turn up and play for free and encourage groups of friends to enter a team into one of the leagues for a fun, competitive edge.
Gear Up: Rugby Kit & Equipment Costs
Now, onto the gear. Rugby is not a sport for the fashion-conscious, but there are essentials you'll need to play safely and effectively. Here's a quick breakdown:
Boots: Expect to pay £50-£200. The right boots can make a world of difference on the pitch. Choose wisely.
Mouthguard: Around £10-£50. Trust us, your teeth will thank you.
Protective Headgear: £30-£80. Not mandatory, but recommended for those who prefer their ears in the original condition.
Shoulder Pads (optional): £40-£100. Again, not essential, but they offer added protection.
Team Kit: Jerseys, shorts, and socks can cost anywhere from £50 to £150, depending on your club's supplier and the quality of the kit.
Training Costs and Extras
Aside from the basics, there are other costs to consider. Training camps, extra coaching sessions, and gym memberships can add up. A good gym membership might set you back £50 a month, while a weekend training camp could cost anywhere from £100 to £300. It's all about how deep you want to dive into your rugby journey.
Travel and Tournament Expenses
If your team loves a good road trip to away games or tournaments, there will be travel costs. These can range from fuel money for carpooling to accommodation for overnight stays. Budgeting £100-£500 per season for travel wouldn't be out of bounds, depending on the level of commitment and the distances travelled.
The Social Side of Rugby
Let's not forget the social aspect of rugby. Club fundraisers, social nights, and the obligatory third-half celebrations are integral parts of the rugby culture. While not a mandatory cost, joining in these events can enhance your rugby experience and deepen your connection to the team. Setting aside £50 for social activities can help ensure you don't miss out on the fun.
Scholarships and Support
For the younger players or those with tight budgets, look into scholarships or financial assistance programs offered by many clubs and rugby organisations. Rugby's inclusive spirit means there's often support available to ensure everyone who wants to play can, regardless of their financial situation.
In Summary: The Full-Time Whistle
So, what's the bottom line? Starting from scratch, a new adult player might need to budget around £500 for their first year, including club fees, gear, and extra expenses. For juniors, this cost could be significantly less, especially with second-hand gear and lower membership fees.
Playing rugby involves a financial commitment, but it's an investment in fitness, friendship, and fun. The family feel of a rugby club is priceless, and the memories made on and off the pitch are worth every penny. Plus, with options to manage costs through second-hand gear, scholarships, and choosing what extras to invest in, rugby can be accessible for a wide range of budgets.
Remember, the value of playing rugby isn't just measured in pennies; it's also in the life lessons learned, the community built, and the joy of the game. So, whether you're scrummaging for the first time or a seasoned player, the world of rugby welcomes you—budget and all.
Do you think the cost of playing rugby is fair? What would you change? We at W RUGBY are here to help grassroots rugby teams and players with our Project: Won-for-Won which donates free rugby balls to your local clubs and community.
