LEARNING THE GAME
Gotham is committed to introducing rugby to new players and helping experienced players improve their skills and knowledge. You learn rugby by playing. The best approach is to attend practice and play in matches. Visit our Rugby 101 page for additional resources.
NEW PLAYERS
There are many avenues to start playing rugby and no experience is necessary. Show up to a practice, come watch a match, or join us at a social event. The common thread is letting us know you are interested. Use the form on this page to contact us.
EXPERIENCED PLAYERS
Gotham is a Division III men's club in the Empire GU of New York and a member of International Gay Rugby (IGR). The Knights are one of the top competitive clubs at the Bingham Cup, a biannual international inclusive rugby union tournament. The Knights became the IGR champions at the 2010 Bingham Cup, Bingham Plate Recipients in 2016, are in the 2018 Empire GU D3 Playoffs. We are always glad to have experienced players join the club as we continually increase our competitiveness.
INTERNATIONAL PLAYERS
New York is an international city and is home to rugby players from all over the world. Gotham has been fortunate to have many friends from abroad play with us socially and competitively. Whether you are making a new home here or just passing through and want some fun on the pitch, let us know.
PRACTICES and GaMe Days
Practice
In season practices are typically held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Randall's Island. We practice rain or shine but may cancel due to severe weather. For updates on weather or location changes, be sure to check our Facebook page or reach out to team leadership through the contact form for the most up-to-date information.
Bring your mouthguard, water and clothes that you don't mind getting dirty or roughed up (it's a contact game after all). Most of us get together following practice for dinner.
Matches
Saturday is a rugby day! Almost all matches are held on Saturdays during the seasons, and locations vary based on the home team and availability of space. The team will help arrange transportation or facilitate car pooling for away matches. Check the match schedule for the most up-to-date information.
THIRD HALF
Community and mutual respect are important elements of rugby. After matches, the teams get together to eat, drink, sing, and socialize. We leave the aggression on the pitch but bring the competition to the boat race. Prepare to stay after and buy your opposite a pint.
SEASONS
Competitive 15s Season - AUG to Nov
Teams in the Empire GU compete for standing in the fall season. Competitive matches are usually followed by social or developmental B-side matches.
Social 15s Season - MAR to MAY
The spring season is generally made up of social and friendly matches. Teams that advanced to the top of their division in the the fall will participate in playoff and championship matches in the spring.
Summer 7s - Jun to AUG
7s is a fast-paced, stripped-down version of rugby played in tournament formats. 7s is continually growing in popularity and debuted in the 2016 Olympics. We will continue to foster a 7s team with the help of individual player interest.
Winter and Off-Season Touch Rugby
Gotham traditionally plays touch rugby in winter. These are purely social events and open to anyone, and a great way to get to know the club and the sport. They usually end in brunch and catching a rugby match at a rugby bar.
REGISTRATIONS AND DUES
USA Rugby
Players and participants (coaches, referees, administrators) are required to register annually with USA rugby. Registration expires at the end of August and must be renewed each year. The fee for USA Rugby registration helps support the national organization and geographic unions. In addition to USA Rugby membership, these fees provide additional benefits including a basic level of insurance for participants. Complete information is available at the USA Rugby website.
Gotham Dues
Club membership dues are based on an annual or per-season plan, and help cover the costs of running the club. Gotham will work with individuals to develop payment plans; finances should never prevent anyone from enjoying rugby.
For information about dues or to pay your dues, visit the Club Dues page.