Within the contexts of family and community, the Edmond Rugby Club teaches rugby as a way to develop in young men teamwork, character, and leadership.
Origins
Begun as the dream of New Zealand-born Edmond residents, Greg McFadden and Garrick Cocker, the Edmond Rugby Club has grown since November 2007 to 25 players, their parents and fans. Open to students from all Edmond high schools including Deer Creek, ERC offers a colorful, new, and exciting sport. Using positive, New Zealand coaching techniques, which praise improvement without dwelling on errors, Edmond Rugby teaches unique ball-handling skills to all students, most of whom have limited athletic backgrounds and almost no rugby experience. The challenge: Create athletes and mold a cohesive team to challenge established clubs in Norman, Mustang, Jenks, Tulsa Union, Bixby, Bartlesville, Broken Arrow and Tulsa's combined schools' team.
The Spirit of Rugby
Rugby, on and off the field, is about learning teamwork, caring for one another, and developing character. The Edmond Rugby Club follows the worldwide tradition of post-game meals wherein both teams, referees, parents, and fans come together for fun times. We have parents/players dinners, too. Edmond Rugby encourages growth through community service projects and education by assisting with college admission, financial aid counseling, time off for ACT testing, college tours, and other school activities. The club provides a structured environment for channeling player energy, while holding boys to their families and community as they become men. Parents praise the positive impact of this club on their sons' lives.
Safety
Rugby is a rough and tumble game played by gentlemen. The rules and skills of rugby maximize action and minimize injuries compared to football. Our teaching coaches show players how to tackle effectively and safely by wrapping up ball carriers - not hitting a ball carrier with the head to knock him out of bounds. Blocking is penalized. Remember, President Teddy Roosevelt once asked colleges to switch from football to rugby because it was safer.
To learn about the origins of Rugby and much more, please visit our links page.