All SARFC Members are responsible for the following.
Personal Medical Insurance Coverage
The Sheboygan Area Rugby Football Clube does not offer any form of medical insurance or coverage to its members. It is up to the individual member to be responsible for all medical costs and coverage, should any injury happen during a Club event.
Rugby Equipment
Rugby Boots
Rugby Boots are required when playing a Rugby match for safety reasons. They are different than most other sports "cleats" in that they have no toe cleat. Boots can be ordered from many Rugby suppliers worldwide from around $35.00 to upward of $100. Often you can find sales for less than that or get group discounts. Different styles are available and may be preferred depending on your position and skill set.
At times, we will be practicing indoors and you will need gym shoes - running/cross training, etc.
For outdoor practices, most outdoor cleats will be acceptable.
When we officially play a match, you should have a pair of boots acquired.
Rugby Shorts
Rugby shorts are required when playing a Rugby match for safety reasons. The are different than most other shorts in that they are constructed of heavy-duty material and stitching. Shorts can be ordered from many Rugby suppliers worldwide from about $20.00 to $50.00. Different styles are available and may be preferred depending on your position and skill set.
At times, we will be practicing indoors and you can wear any shorts or workout/sweat pants you want.
For outdoor practices, we will be stepping up contact and more sturdy shorts will be useful.
When we officially play a match, you should have a pair of shorts acquired. The color will be navy or black.
Rugby Socks
Rugby socks are required when playing a Rugby match. However, we will most likely NOT have any OFFICIAL matches this spring. In fact, we may not even have uniforms or official Club colors! Rugby socks also offer a level of protection duringa a game and therefore everybody should acquire a pair of socks whenever they can. Socks can be ordered from many Rugby suppliers worldwide for about $5.00 to $10.00.
At times, we will be practicing indoors and you can wear any socks you feel comfortable in.
For outdoor practices, we will be using outdoor footwear and the extra protection will be a good idea, but not required..
When we officially play a match, you should have a pair of socks acquired. The color will be navy or navy with a silver (grey) top if you have a choice.
Mouth Guard
Mouth guards are not required during practice or matches (I think), but it's a good idea to acquire one (or more - spares) to wear during matches at least. Mouth guards not only protect your teeth and tongue, but also help prevent concussions - honest! Mouth guards can be acquired at many local stores for under $5 to $10.
At times, we will be practicing indoors without much contact. Use your best judgement..
For outdoor practices, we will be stepping up contact and it's not a bad idea to have a mouth guard.
When we officially play a match, it is highly recommended that you have a mouth guard.
OTHER EQUIPMENT
Sports Bag
Carry your "kit" around in style. In the future, we will try to make a Club order, complete with colors, logos, etc. and each member will be able to have their name/nickname on it. Until then, use whatever you want.
Scrum Cap
Used primarily by the 'tight 5', this soft helmet is used more to keep your ears from getting ripped off than to protect your melon from direct impacts. There are many styles and makes out there, but official Rugby rules regulate the style and even the color. Check to see if the cap you're interested in complies with these rules before you buy.
Scrum Vest
Used primarily by the 'front row', this soft under-vest is used to absorb the initial shock of direct impacts during scrums. There are many styles and makes out there, but official Rugby rules regulate the thickness and size. Check to see if the vest you're interested in complies with these rules before you buy.
Athletic Supporter
If you want/need the extra support/protection inside your shorts that's your call. Many players wear them, many don't. Many did and stopped when they heard the saying: "The size of your athletic supporter says nothing about your manhood. The fact that you wear one does."
It's a sad sight to see a Rugger sidelined for lack of equipment. Don't be that guy. Acquiring these items is easier that it sounds at first. All in all, by spring everybody should have insurance, boots, socks, and something to carry it all in - even if it's only a trash bag. That would cost about $65 on the low side.
Group orders are a good way to save some money and we'll probably try to make one as soon as people are ready. Next time you want an extra candy bar, cup of coffee or favorite golden/black beverage hold off on it and pocket the cash instead!
If anybody has any old practice jerseysm socks, boots, balls, etc. to donate to the club... LET IT BE KNOWN!
