Welcome to the City of Rio Rancho Rugby Club, where we’re passionate about introducing young athletes to the dynamic and rewarding sport of rugby. Our program is designed to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for players of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes.
We have divisions under the Rebels teams available for both girls and boys ages 5-19. Our High School Teams play games in 7s, 10s or 15s. Junior High School Teams play limited contact games in both 7s and 10s. Our Mini’s play flag rugby and is a blast for the entire family watching them play.
Our Mission
At Rio Rancho Rugby, we strive to promote teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship both on and off the field. We believe that rugby is more than just a game—it’s a community that fosters confidence, discipline, and lifelong friendships. We continue to be the largest club in New Mexico, with over 100 participants across our divisions.
Safety and Training
Safety First: We prioritize the well-being of our players by implementing strict safety protocols during practices and games. This includes teaching proper tackling techniques and ensuring players use appropriate protective equipment.
Certified Coaches: Our coaching staff undergoes rigorous training and certifications, including:
US Center for Safesport National Background Check
Rugby Safety Certification
First Aid Training
World Rugby Coaching Certifications
Player Development
Skill Building: Our program emphasizes the development of core skills like passing, tackling, and strategic play, ensuring each player grows on and off the field.
Advanced Opportunities: For experienced players, we offer pathways to regional and national competitions, as well as exposure to collegiate rugby programs.
CORR student athletes participates in the Rio Grande Rugby Union and can represent their state in regional/ national/ international competitions. In 2019, there were over 400 youth/ high school athletes registered in New Mexico split over 24 teams. Through our program, and the various opportunities provided, we have had quite a few players go on to play collegiately. We have alumni that have gone on to play Lindenwood, Trinity Christian University, University of New Mexico, New Mexico Tech, New Mexico State University, and New Mexico Highlands University, Iowa Central Community College, Queens College, Clemson University, University of Louisville, University of Arizona, College of Notre Dame, San Diego State University, Brigham Young University and Central Washington University.
Our program is more than just training athletes, we focus on key characteristics that develop civic minded youth- Integrity, Excellence, Service and Respect. The club is involved in the community service, giving back to city that supports us. Players develop and expand communication skills, leadership, time management, and interview skills.
Equipment and Costs
What You Need: Players will need cleats, a mouthguard, and appropriate athletic wear. Rugby jerseys are provided as part of the registration package.
Affordable Options: We offer competitive pricing with early bird registration specials available through February 8th. Financial assistance and payment plans may also be available upon request.
Commitment and Schedule
Flexible Practices: Practices are held at the East Side of Parsons Field in the Rio Rancho Sports Complex, located at 3501 High Resort Blvd. SE. Sessions are tailored to different age groups and begin on Tuesday, January 28th.Practice Schedule by Age Group:
U18 and U16: Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday, 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
U14 and U12: Tuesday/Wednesday, 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
U10, U8, and U6: Tuesday/Thursday, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Season Timeline: The season runs from late January through the spring, with games and tournaments scheduled on weekends. Some travel may be required for competitive matches.
Mini Tournaments and State Finals: Our season will feature a series of mini tournaments starting March 8th and continuing through April, culminating in the State Finals on May 10th. Check out our calendar of events for specific dates and locations.
Season Kickoff Meeting: Join us for our parent/player meeting on Saturday, February 8th, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the HP Facility, 2351 HP Way NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87114.
Culture and Community
Team Spirit: Rugby is built on camaraderie and respect. We foster an environment where every player feels valued and supported.
Inclusivity: We welcome players of all genders and backgrounds to join our diverse and vibrant community.
Parent Involvement
Stay Connected: Parents are encouraged to stay engaged through regular updates, volunteer opportunities, and team events.
Transparent Communication: We ensure parents are informed about schedules, expectations, and any changes throughout the season.
Player Development
Skill Building: Our program emphasizes the development of core skills like passing, tackling, and strategic play, ensuring each player grows on and off the field.
Advanced Opportunities: For experienced players, we offer pathways to regional and national competitions, as well as exposure to collegiate rugby programs.
We encourage our players to consider playing rugby in college and using the sport to find scholarships and grants to pay for their schooling. With the popularity of other sports in the US, it can be extremely difficult to find scholarship opportunities to competitive schools and programs. Rugby is growing in the US and most universities offer some kind of club or rugby program that they are looking to grow. In the state of New Mexico, it is common knowledge that college recruiters often over look high school athletes in those more popular sports. So why not use Rugby to stand out and be seen by programs that are in need of players. It is your goal to help connect our players, who want to continue their schooling and play rugby, with the right universities and programs to help better their future and give them more opportunities.
“US college rugby is the fastest growing college sport in America for both men’s rugby and women’s rugby. This is highlighted by the fact that the first ever Major League Rugby (MLR) Collegiate Draft took place in June 2020. The draft represents an important pathway for rugby in America and another positive step for the growing league. College rugby continues to be more popular than ever and this means it is a really attractive option for many talented student-athletes worldwide and will provide more rugby scholarships for these rugby players over time. Naturally this means competition for places can be extremely high, which is why using a recruitment consultancy like U.S Sports Scholarships can give you a real advantage. Rugby scholarships include a variety of offerings from covering tuition fees, to dues or fee waivers, to in-state tuition rates for out-of-state students.”
Ready to Register?
Click the link below to secure your spot and join the Rio Rancho Rugby family
