CSULB Rugby

Rugby is the second most watched sport in the world, and yet rugby is nearly unrepresented in the US.  This is a considerable challenge to overcome when recruiting and trying to get people interested in CSULB Rugby.  “Recruiting is rather rough, because the NCAA doesn't consider the sport in America to be sponsored. So we don't receive any scholarships,” said Sean Mazer, a senior on the CSULB rugby team, “Probably, only about 5% come out and know what they are doing.” 

                The club is open to everyone in the community not just students.  However, being a full times student is necessary to participate in league play.  Most members have no experience with rugby.  Rugby is very much a European sport.  It is the equivalent of football in the US.  Players in Europe have the opportunity receive full scholarships and professionals receive the same treatment as the biggest super stars in the US.

                Recognition for the team is even more of an issue. “All college rugby teams are club sports, so no college in America gives NCAA scholarships for their players,” Sean said. Teams are severely under presented on campuses nationwide.  Another issue that rises from this is funding.  School funding granted to club sports depends on the number of members and the money isn’t enough to cover team expenses.  The rugby collects $200 per semester from every member for league dues and gear.

                The team was recently bumped down to Division 2 and play teams from Pepperdine, Fullerton, UCSD, SBCC, and other California school teams. The team is striving to regain Division 1 status this year.  During pre-league play they have defeated numerous Davison 1 teams including and all out rout against USC ending in a 34-7 victory.

                 The team just participated in a tournament at Cal Poly.  They played the top teams in California including, Cal Poly, Saint Mary’s, UCSB, Loyola, and UCLA, which are all part of the premier league, which is the step above Division 1.  They came in 5^th out of 12 over-all proving the 49ers are able to hold their own with the big boys.

Photos courtesy of Sean Mazer