Information for Current and Prospective Middle School Players
For more information, contact: Marty Bradley - director@smacrugby.com or 865.805.5029

Mondays and Fridays from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM
Enrollment Process
* Pre-registration is NOT required for the first session *

Each year, we introduce the sport of rugby to hundreds of East Tennessee students that have no prior experience. Our coaches are dedicated to teaching rugby to the middle school and high school age students in a competitive, safe and enjoyable manner. In 2008 SMAC is pleased to announce the creation of a middle school age program for boys and girls. Beginning after spring break, SMAC will hold sessions on Monday and Fridays from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. These session will equip the player with the skills and knowledge to particpate in both non-contact and contact rugby.

New Players
All middle school aged boys and girls in East Tennessee are eligible to participate in rugby programs offered by the Smoky Mountain Athletic Club.

Touch Rugby
All Middle School students (boys & girls) will begin in touch rugby so that they can understand and practice the basic skills and principles of the game. As players gain knowledge and confidence on the field, they will be given the opportunity to progress to tackle rugby later in the season (but is not required). In the younger age group, touch rugby may be a co-ed competition.

Tackle Rugby
Full contact tackle rugby will be offered as particpants begin to understand the game and have a demonstrated knowledge of the laws. All tackle rugby competitions are gender and age exclusive. Boys will play against other boys teams and girls play against other girls teams of similar age.

Practices
Interested participants will practice on Mondays and Friday nights at John Tarleton Park beginning March 24. All area middle school players will practice together and then split up based on schools and geography for games. In April, games will begin on Friday nights and training will continue on Mondays. New players are always welcome to attend practices; however, players must complete the requirement paperwork prior to participation.

Games
Games will be played on Fridays with a championship tournament held May 16.

Required Equipment
The only thing that is required to get started is a pair of cleats. As players migrate into tackle rugby, a mouthpeice is required. The great thing about rugby is that it doesn't take a lot of money just to find out if you like the sport.

Costs
Each participant will be required to pay a registration fee by SMAC of $25 prior to the beginning of the competition plus must register with USA Rugby.