About the City of Rio Rancho Rugby Club
One Community. More Than a Game. Brighter Tomorrows.
Welcome to the home of the Rio Rancho Rebels! We introduce girls and boys ages 5–19 to rugby in a welcoming, inclusive environment where beginners and experienced players can develop skills, build confidence, and find their team.
Fall rugby is getting started, and we’re welcoming families for the 2026–2027 season.
Our Mission
We promote teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship on and off the field. Through rugby, we help young people build confidence, discipline, leadership, and lifelong friendships.
Our program centers on Integrity, Excellence, Service, and Respect. These values guide how we train, compete, support one another, and give back to the community.
One Club. Every Age.
From our youngest Rookie Rugby players to our high school teams, the Rebels offer opportunities to learn and grow:
- Rookie Rugby: Ages 5–7, introducing movement, passing, catching, and teamwork.
- Mini Rebels: Ages 7–12, developing skills and confidence through flag rugby.
- Jr. Rebels: U13–U15, progressing into limited-contact rugby.
- High School Girls and Boys: U15–U19, developing competitive skills through contact rugby, with opportunities to play 7s, 10s, and 15s.
Eligibility is determined by birthdate in Rugby Xplorer. Visit Teams & Ages for program details.
Fall 2026: Getting Started
Fall rugby begins September 19, with Rookie Rugby, T1 Touch, and competitive touch opportunities bringing players together for a new season.
We normally host our Fall practices at Haynes Park in Rio Rancho. This year’s calendar also includes November sessions hosted by ABQ Eagles at North Domingo Baca in Albuquerque.
Check Rugby Around New Mexico for each session’s time, location, host, and age groups.
Looking Ahead to Spring 2027
Spring season details will be announced in November 2026.
Our usual Spring practice location is the Rio Rancho Sports Complex, off High Resort Boulevard. Depending on age group, practices normally take place up to three days per week. Confirmed days, times, and the season start date will be included in the Spring announcement.
Conference Competition and Travel
The New Mexico Conference season consists of a series of mini tournaments. Teams earn points based on wins, losses, and draws, building their conference standings as the season progresses toward the State Finals, usually held in late May or early June.
We also travel to compete against teams outside the New Mexico Conference, giving players opportunities to experience different opponents and develop their game. Travel plans for Spring 2027 will be announced in December 2026.
Safety and Player Development
Player well-being is central to our program. We teach age-appropriate skills, safe contact techniques where applicable, and the importance of using appropriate equipment.
Our coaching preparation includes background checks, SafeSport training, rugby safety education, first aid, and World Rugby coaching certifications.
Players develop passing, catching, movement, decision-making, and teamwork as they progress. Alongside athletic skills, we encourage communication, leadership, time management, and responsibility.
Opportunities Beyond High School
We help players explore opportunities to continue their education and rugby careers through college programs, scholarships, and grants.
Rebels alumni have gone on to programs including the University of New Mexico, New Mexico Tech, New Mexico State University, New Mexico Highlands University, Lindenwood, Iowa Central Community College, Clemson, the University of Arizona, and others.
State Finals also give our wider rugby community an opportunity to recognize graduating seniors and celebrate their contributions to the game.
Community and Family
Our club gives back to the community that supports us. Through service, volunteering, and shared experiences, players learn to contribute beyond the rugby field.
Parents and families are an essential part of the Rebels. We welcome involvement in club events, volunteer opportunities, and team activities, and keep families informed about schedules, expectations, and season updates.
Getting Ready to Play
Bring cleats, a mouthguard, appropriate athletic clothing, and water. Families can contact the club about equipment questions, financial assistance, or payment-plan availability.
Visit our Registration page for current fees, eligible Fall-only and Full Season options, and instructions for joining through Rugby Xplorer.
Join the Rebels
Whether your child is trying rugby for the first time or preparing for their next competitive season, there’s a place to grow with the Rebels.