From Abbotsford RugbyThe Originals, the old boy’s side of the Abbotsford Rugby Football Club, is preparing to kick off the 2014 spring season with a full slate of games starting Sunday, February 09 versus the Ebb Tide at their home pitch in Victoria. The following Sunday, February 16, The Originals host the Semiahmoo Old Boys from South Surrey at Exhibition Park in Abbotsford with a one pm kick off.
Original Looking for Players
The Originals draw on players from Abbotsford, Mission, Hope, Sumas, Lynden, Bellingham and Chilliwack and are always looking for additional players to come back to playing or even discover rugby for the first time.
“We have had a number of guys come out and play rugby after a lengthy hiatus or give rugby a go for the first time at age 37 plus with great success”, said club media liaison David Hull.
“It has been a great opportunity for former players to dig their boots from the back of the closet and get back on the field in addition to guys new to Abbotsford with a rugby history looking to play”.
Formed in the summer of 2010 The Originals provide a lifelong continuity of rugby in the Fraser Valley.
“The club has mini starting at age five going all the way through youth age grade sides and men’s and women’s teams to players ultimately in their 60’s and 70’s playing old boys”, said Hull.
Old boys’ rugby is full on rugby played in the true spirit of the old boy’s game with the respect due to players in the latter half of their playing career.
Unlimited substitutions and a game divided into four quarters, providing additional breaks, makes the games appropriate for players regardless of age or skills.
In the spirit of rugby, and particularly old boys rugby, the post game social time with both teams enjoying a cold beverage, camaraderie, and a good meal is an integral part of the day.
The Originals practice on Thursdays starting at 6:30 pm at Delair Park playing touch rugby with a social component following.
Games are played on Sundays with a 1 pm kick off.
The schedule is posted on the ARFC website www.abbotsfordrugby.com
If you are 37 or older and are looking to continue or re-start your rugby career contact
Original’s President Shawn Rideout at 778-552-0259 or come out to practice Thursday evenings.
Photos from Abbotsford Rugby