WRENTHAM, MA – September 3rd, 2026 – Barbarians Youth Rugby On the heels of hosting the 2026 Bay State Games, Barbarians Youth Rugby is excited to announce the official start of its Fall 2026 season, beginning Sunday, September 13th, at the William A. Rice Recreation Complex in Wrentham. As one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, rugby offers a unique, values-driven alternative to the traditional sports model, with d a welcoming environment for all athletes.
The Barbarians program is open to girls and boys from grades K-12. Newcomers to the sport are encouraged to join at any point during the fall season to experience the game firsthand. The club's experienced coaching staff prioritizes fun and safety, fostering a positive atmosphere where every player—regardless of body type or prior experience—can thrive and learn invaluable life lessons centered on respect, integrity, and teamwork.
The fall season features a refined training structure designed to provide age-appropriate development and specialized coaching.
Flag Rugby
Middle & High School
K - 6th
7th - 12th
9:00 AM
10:00 AM
Boys Middle School
Girls Middle and High School
Boys High School
The Fall season is designed to celebrate the community and competitive spirit of the sport, culminating in two signature events:
"Run for Your Lives" Match: A beloved end-of-season tradition where players compete in their Halloween costumes, blending high-speed rugby action with festive community fun.
New York Sevens Tournament: For high school-aged contact players, the season extends to the Saturday after Thanksgiving for the prestigious NY Sevens tournament in New York City, providing a platform for athletes to showcase their skills on a regional stage.
Parents and players interested in joining "The Horde" are encouraged to register through the official Barbarians Youth Rugby website. For those curious about the sport, the club maintains an "open gates" policy—anyone interested is welcome to visit the Rice Complex on Sunday mornings to meet the coaches and see the teams in action.
Barbarians Youth Rugby is a volunteer-led, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the sport of rugby and its core values of integrity, passion, solidarity, discipline, and respect. Through coaching and competition, the club aims to develop skilled athletes and responsible young citizens guided by the core values of rugby. The program provides a safe and challenging environment for players of all backgrounds, offering pathways from kindergarten through high school and into the collegiate level. Follow us on Facebook and on Instagram; visit Barbarians Youth Rugby to learn more.
Greg Vitarelli
Communications Director
greg@barbariansrugby.club
617-455-9627
