After never having one before, St. Paul’s School is attempting to put together a rugby team–which will be up and running soon–due to a request from a group of freshmen students.

Religion teacher and considered moderator for the team, Tommy Lahey, stated, “Rugby is not a huge sport here, and it’s a good opportunity for students to try something new.” Unfortunately, Lahey will not be able to be coach or moderator for the team due to being contracted for soccer. The team is still looking for a moderator.

According to Lahey, the team will be considered more of a club than an official sport. The team will start meeting and learning about the sport in the next few weeks. Lahey noted that the first practices and games will be touch only, and if the team is willing, full contact is an option.

“It seems like an interesting sport,” said Lahey, noting that students are intrigued because rugby is not a common sport in the Covington area.

According to Lahey, although rugby is thought to be an unsafe sport, there should not be too much concern for students’ safety, as long as they are cautious and careful while taking part in the game. Lahey is confident that students will be safe, especially since the games are to be touch-only starting off.

The object of the game of rugby is to score a goal by passing the ball down the field to a goal. There are numerous small rules which players will have to learn before playing a game. Attire for rugby includes clothing similar to soccer uniforms. For example, a player would wear soccer cleats, shin guards, and a jersey.

Since the team is not set in stone yet, there is absolutely no telling what teams the Rugby Wolves will compete against in the near future. Not many schools in the local area have a rugby team or are even considering having a rugby team. If no opponents are found, the team will split into subgroups and play against each other.

Students interested in playing rugby should watch out for announcements concerning the creation of the team.