1. Play Rugby
There’s no denying that Colorado is a hub for the sport of rugby. The club scene boasts dozens of men’s, women’s, college, high school, and youth clubs; in addition to being the home of ‘USA Rugby’.
The Denver Barbarians were founded in 1967. The club fields a highly competitive fall/spring 15’s season as well as a summer 7’s season. The club also participates in annual tournaments such as Aspen Ruggerfest and the Steamboat Cow Pie Classic— both of which are played on two of the most beautiful rugby pitches in the world, nestled in the rocky mountains.
The ‘Barbos’ have produced numerous professional rugby players over the years. This page pictures six of them who have each either played PRO Rugby, MLR, International 7’s, and/or International 15’s.
2. Develop a Career
As much as we’ve all dreamt about a professional career in rugby, the truth is, not everyone will be able to make this dream a reality.
It is important to grow long term career skills as you continue to navigate your rugby path (both professional and club). He who fails to plan, plan to fails. What does the word “Career” mean to you?
We want every player to get on the road to success. The Barbos network will be an intricate part of matching young rugby players with a full-time job that fits their knowledge, skills, abilities, and credentials.
3. Volunteer in the Community
Anyone who has been involved with rugby for any amount of time knows that the sport has so much to give. Just about everyone who loves the game of rugby gains something as an individual.
We believe that one of the best ways for young men to continue growing into adulthood is by giving back to rugby— especially at the grassroots level. Coaching youth rugby in the community is a great way to fulfil the soul.
The acts of giving and receiving through rugby creates a feedback loop which fosters player development, increases positive communication, and amplifies overall professionalism both on and off the field.
On a community level, bonds are strengthened and the sport grows to reach more people who are waiting to learn about rugby as well.
4. Mentorship
Young players are paired strategically with club mentors whose goal is to make them feel welcomed and at home.
Any move whether it be across town or across the country is never easy to make. From unpacking boxes, to learning the lay of the land, to finding employment— one of these things will lead to some stress in just about everyone.
By making mentorship one of the core pillars of the Rugby Rent Scholarship program, we hope to alleviate some of this stress and make the whole experience of settling in as easy and painless as possible.
Mentorship is also a two way street that teaches accountability and how to develop lasting relationships.
