Rugby Season Is In Full Swing In Santa Barbara

Rugby players of all ages converge at Elings Park every Saturday to play a sport that is growing in popularity.

“There are massive rivalries, but it’s a gentleman’s sport,” said head coach Forrest Galante. “They hit each other, they bash each other, they get fired up and revved up. But, they come off the field, give each other a hug and have a hot dog together.”

Some consider the sport to be brutal, but rugby parents said they believe it’s safer than football.

“They kind of watch out for themselves. They cover their heads,” said parent Christina McCarthy. “I know they are protecting themselves. It’s all in the game. I know they have fun with it.”

Some statistics show major injuries are less common in rugby compared to other contact sports.

“In football, when you put on those big pads, those big helmets, you feel invincible. You lead with your head, which is a great way to injure yourself,” Galante said. “Our kids learn proper tackling techniques. They learn to use their shoulders.”

Young players said they like rugby because everyone gets the ball.

Girls are also taking to the field with the boys.

“They treat me like another person. I’m respected out there,” said Fiona Cate of Santa Barbara.

“If you are like a girl, who is kind of sick of soccer because you like to be physical. Then I think you should play rugby,” said Stella Crawford of Santa Barbara.

“You could just come out to a practice and just kind of try it out. But, if you don’t like, it you don’t have to keep playing but I guarantee you will,” said Josh Benson of Santa Barbara.

The Santa Barbara Youth Rugby Stingrays are still accepting players of all ages.

Practice is on Tuesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Games are on Saturday.

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