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Rugby is more than just a game; it’s a culture of camaraderie, resilience, and inclusivity. Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club (CBRC), a pillar of the Whatcom County community for over 50 years, is thrilled to announce the opening of player registrations for the 2024 Spring Season. Whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned player, Chuckanut has something for everyone, offering rugby programs for all ages and skill levels.
About Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club
Founded in 1973, Chuckanut Bay Rugby has grown into a hub for rugby enthusiasts, emphasizing player development and fostering a love for the game. The club operates out of the deWilde Rugby & Polo Fields, a world-class facility just outside Ferndale, WA, featuring two immaculate grass pitches and a clubhouse.
Chuckanut Bay Rugby’s mission is to create sustainable growth for rugby in the region, making the sport accessible and enjoyable for players and families alike. With programs ranging from non-contact youth flag rugby to competitive high school and adult teams, the club prides itself on being inclusive and community-driven. To learn more about our club and facilities, check out these links:
About Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club | History & Mission
deWilde Fields Project Phases | Strategic Development
What Makes Rugby Unique?
Rugby is a sport that stands out by blending the best elements of other popular sports while fostering a unique culture of inclusivity and teamwork. For parents whose children have played football, rugby’s physicality and strategy will feel familiar, but with continuous play that keeps all players engaged. Unlike football’s specialization, rugby gives every player the opportunity to pass, tackle, and score, promoting well-rounded athleticism. It also prioritizes safety through proper tackling techniques, emphasizing body mechanics over brute force.
Soccer players will appreciate rugby’s nonstop action and the need for endurance, as the running clock keeps the game moving. Likesoccer’s quick transitions, rugby rewards players who can think on their feet and adapt to changing situations. Basketball fans will notice parallels in rugby’s fluid teamwork and fast turnovers, where possession and opportunities shift in an instant. The game encourages creativity, coordination, and a team-oriented approach, giving all players a chance to shine.
For children who have never played a sport, rugby offers an especially welcoming environment. With roles for every body type and skill level, it celebrates diversity and ensures everyone has a place on the field. Non-contact options like flag rugby help beginners build confidence in a fun and safe way. The rugby community emphasizes inclusion, camaraderie, and personal growth, creating a space where kids can develop skills, make friends, and gain confidence.
Parents often find that rugby offers more than just athletic development—it’s a way to instill values like respect, leadership, and resilience. The sport’s emphasis on teamwork and sportsmanship extends beyond the field, shaping kids into well-rounded individuals. Whether your child is an experienced athlete or completely new to sports, rugby provides a dynamic and rewarding experience that’s as much about character building as it is about competition.
For more information about rugby, check out this link: Rugby 101 | Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club | Learn the Basics
Spring Season Highlights
CBRC’s Spring Season begins with practices in February and concludes with matches and tournaments in late May. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect:
- Teams Offered: Programs are available for youth, high school, and adult players. Teams include:
- Littlenecks (U8 and U10): Non-contact flag rugby focusing on fun and foundational skills.
- Gapers (U12): Introduction to contact rugby with modified rules.
- Razors (U14): Full-size field play with increased competitiveness.
- Stingrays (High School Girls+): Expanding opportunities for female players.
- Steamers (High School Boys JV/Varsity): Competitive play with advanced training.
- Geoducks and Mussels (Adult Teams): For players seeking social and competitive rugby.
- Practice Locations: Early season practices are held at Whatcom Community College’s Orca Field on Tuesdays and Thursdays. In April, depending on field conditions, teams transition to the deWilde Rugby & Polo Fields.
- Games and Tournaments: Matches take place primarily on Saturdays, with opportunities for travel to face teams across Washington and beyond. Younger teams may play in BC’s mini rugby league on Sundays.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Club
Q: What makes Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club unique?
A: CBRC combines over 50 years of rugby heritage with a strong community focus. The club offers world-class facilities, programs for all ages, and has produced players who’ve competed internationally.
Q: Who are some of CBRC’s notable alumni?
A: Alumni include Titi Lamositele (USA Eagle #444), Shawn Pittman (USA Eagle#396), and Jack Wendling, who recently played for the USA Rugby 7s team.
About Rugby
Q: What equipment is required to play rugby?
A: Players need cleats, a mouthguard, and rugby-appropriate clothing. Non-contact flag rugby requires only athletic wear.
Q: How safe is rugby?
A: Safety is paramount, with an emphasis on proper technique and certified coaching. For younger players, non-contact options like flag rugby eliminate tackling.
Spring Program Details
Q: How often are practices, and where are they held?
A: Practices are twice weekly, generally on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Locations include Whatcom Community College and the deWilde Rugby & Polo Fields.
Q: Are there travel commitments for games?
A: Travel is minimal for younger teams but increases for high school and adult teams, with away games in the Seattle area and occasional tournaments in BC, Idaho, or Oregon.
Q: What is the format of play?
A: Younger players begin with non-contact flag rugby. Contact rugby is introduced gradually at U12, with full 15s play at the high school level.
Registration and Fees
Q: How do I register, and what are the fees?
A: Registration is online via RugbyXplorer and you can begin registration here. Fees are approximately $260 for high school, $250 for middle school, and $150 for non-contact players. Scholarships are available for families in need.
Q: Can players join after the registration deadline?
A: Late registrations are accepted, though fees are not prorated.
For Parents
Q: How can parents stay involved?
A: CBRC welcomes parent volunteers for roles such as coaching, event management, and fundraising.
Q: What is the club’s policy on injuries?
A: Coaches follow USA Rugby’s injury protocols, including concussion management. Medical trainers are present during games.
Ready to Join?
Experience the joy of rugby with Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club this spring! Register now and become part of a community that’s passionate about the game and its values. For more details and to sign up, visit our registration page at https://www.chuckanut.rugby/join-a-team.
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