Joining a club.

[CanadianChris]

For discussion, and to give me some pointers. What are some things you wish someone had told you when you joined your first club? What things do you look for in a potential new team mate? What do new guys do that just drive you nuts?Basically, I want to take playing rugby very seriously, and don't want to waste anyones time. What are some ideas for making a good first impression? Or what makes a bad first impression?Thanks.

 

[M Two One]

Don't worry about where to start, just contact a club of your choice and ask if you can come and play. That's what I ended up doing with the Chicago Griffins. Many clubs have different levels and teach you how to get better before you even get to play with them.

Don't let any little things bug you about someone and be sure to respect everyone. The reality is that you're going to be with a bunch of other smelly guys on and off the field and you're going to have to learn to enjoy being around one another. Go to team social gatherings and remember that you're at the bottom, so ask questions.

Making a good impression is up to you as everyone takes everything differently. My personal suggestion is to just be yourself and have fun. That's what sports are about anyway.

 

[Amobokoboko]

Always take your boots and trainers My first practice session was on an early summer evening. The coach sent out an E-mail we would be doing lots of running and touch to see how the fitness of the group was. Then it started raining, I only had my trainers on me and it became one funny, moody, slippery session.

 

[CanadianChris]

Thanks for the quick replies fellas, I'm pretty used to being tight with smelly guys all the time, being military. The local club has a few other soldiers involved too, so getting on with the guys shouldn't be a crazy stretch. Good point about the dual footwear, I will certainly keep that in mind. Thanks again, keep em coming.

 

[Black Heart]

For discussion, and to give me some pointers. What are some things you wish someone had told you when you joined your first club? What things do you look for in a potential new team mate? What do new guys do that just drive you nuts?Basically, I want to take playing rugby very seriously, and don't want to waste anyones time. What are some ideas for making a good first impression? Or what makes a bad first impression?Thanks.

The thing about rugby being a huge team sport is that you're team should have you're back for anything. That's the kind of comradery that comes with the sport. Obviously you may run into 1 or 2 pricks from time to time but if they're doing a good job at ******* you off then chances are they're doing a good job at ******* the team off as well. If that's the case then they either get sorted out very quickly or you never see them again.

Just go with a good attitude and a desire to get invoilved and things will work out for you.