How Much Does It Cost To Play Rugby?
Is rugby expensive to play?
It doesn’t have to be! Rugby has a reputation for being a sport for the posh. Not a sport for the working class, or even a game for the every day person. These days however, Rugby has ditched the stuffy stereotype and is seen as a sport to absolutely everyone and anyone. It is a sport that is deliberately designed for all shapes and sizes, enjoyed by anyone from anywhere. So, if you’re looking to step onto the pitch and start your journey, let's tackle the cost of playing rugby and show you how to bag a ball without breaking the bank.
Starting Your Rugby Journey
Ballin' on a Budget: First and foremost, you’ll need a rugby ball. These vary massively in price and quality; it very much is a case of getting what you pay for. You’ll find budget rugby balls out there but the quality will suffer. At W RUGBY, we offer some of the highest quality rugby balls in the market, and each purchase means we donate another to your local grassroots clubs through our Project: Won for Won. You can find them HERE starting from £35 for training balls.
Club Life: If you’re itching to take your game further, think about joining your local club and make some mates! Almost every grassroots club will offer free taster sessions to test your mettle. Once hooked, memberships and subs vary (around £150 per season), depending on how matchday expenses (travel, grub, refs) are handled.
Match Fees: Think £5 per game, but hey, pay only when you play! Some clubs bundle these into memberships to make it easier.
Gear Up and Play Safe
You’ll want to get yourself some protective rugby gear and minimise you injuries. Some kit is mandatory, others are optional.
Boot Up: These come in all sorts of designs and colours can range drastically in price depending on the quality. Sales can score bargains (£20 for entry level boots), but expect £45-£60 on average. Remember, unlike football, any boots you do buy must have studs and not blades, blades are not allowed in Rugby.
Essential Shields: A gumshield/mouthguard is not technically mandatory, but do yourself a favour and never play without one if you enjoy your teeth and tongue intact. For some clubs, it’s a non-negotiable especially for juniors. Luckily, you can pick one up fairly cheap (around £5) or go for fancy models and dentist specials (£50+). Shin pads (around £10) and a scrum cap (around £30) are optional, while shoulder pads (£25-£75) depend on your playing style. Choose wisely and go with what makes you comfortable!
Show Your Colours
Kitting Out: When you play for a club, you may need to buy your club shorts and socks (match jerseys are given to you on game day and returned after the final whistle). You will often be able to buy these in a bundle with club leisure wear or training kits (£100+). They will offer team pride, but seasoned players know the joys of hand-me-downs (vintage smells included!).
Fanatic Fashion: Replica jerseys of your favourite pro team can set you back around (£60-£80 each), but supporting local grassroots teams in your budgy smugglers is equally awesome, and will earn you some free pints from the club house.
The Budget Breakdown: Making Rugby Accessible
Forget the stuffy stereotypes. Rugby welcomes everyone, regardless of financial muscle. Grab a ball, join a friendly club, and feel the mud fly! Rugby's heart beats for passion, not price tags. So, step onto the pitch and unleash your inner champion!
Bonus Rugby Budgeting Tips:
Hunt for second-hand kit online or at club jumble sales. Those jerseys have history!
Many clubs offer financial aid or scholarships for players in need. Don’t be afraid to ask!
Volunteer at your local club to earn kit discounts or fee reductions.
Remember, Rugby is about making mates and the playing games, not exorbitant outlays.
words // David Jones
