There are many different options to play rugby in college. There are growing opportunities to play varsity collegiate rugby, club rugby, and different levels of competitiveness in between! I encourage families to research what they are looking for in universities, and competitive commitment and don’t hesitate to reach out to coaches and complete their interest forms.
CRAA – D1
These teams are technically club programs but are treated like varsity sports at most universities and compete in a league managed by USA Rugby not NCAA. The programs in the Independent Conference are considered some of the best women’s rugby programs in the US.
CRAA – D2
These are largely club programs which means they still compete to win and get some support from their universities to use athletic spaces, however the time and energy commitment will be less. They also aren’t likely to have scholarships to play rugby, though sometimes they will help navigate the admissions and financial aide process.
NIRA
These programs are treated like varsity sports under the NCAA umbrella. They all have access to the amenities that come with being a varsity sport. They are very competitive and are always actively recruiting athletes from around the US to their programs.
Club Rugby
If you don’t want to play rugby with the commitment of a varsity sport, but you aren’t ready to give it up yet (or you are looking for the best way to make friends and just find your community in college) I highly recommend club rugby. Go to the Club Sports website at your university, and/or look for their recruiting table at activity night. I also recommend reaching out to their program on social media. Club rugby still gets competitive but it has a good balance with school and other responsibilities and will be an outlet to stay active and find a great community of people!
Next Phase Rugby
College admissions advising business and help for athletes specifically looking to play rugby in college and find the right match.
Where have Hammers Alumni Played Recently?
Moira Dillow, 2018 – Lindenwood University 3x national champion with Lindenwood
Jill Stewart, 2019 – Lander University and then transferred to Wheeling University when the coach moved – 2024 National Champions
Katie Stern, 2020 – The Mount
Gia Arelio, 2020 – Colorado School of Mines, 2024 Club Rugby D3 15’s Nationals 3rd Place
Libby Tomenek, 2020 – Colorado State University
Hattie Greenwood, 2023 – Life University, 23/24 15’s National Champions
Jorja Pennington, 2024 – Adrian College
Aryana Landis, 2024 – Colorado Mesa University
Kaitlyn Dell, 2024 – University of Essex, England
Gena Karpeil, 2025 – Colorado Mesa University