After years of silence on the pitch, rugby has stormed back into Trail, and it’s not just a comeback.
It’s a revival.
The Trail Rugby Football Club (RFC) now hosts practices every Thursday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Upper Sunningdale Field.
Open to adults 16 and up, the club welcomes everyone, no experience required.
Just bring cleats or runners, a water bottle, a willing spirit, and a can-do attitude.
While the adult league is the current focus, Trail RFC is also laying the groundwork for future players.
The “minis” program introduces kids aged 2–5 to the sport, and junior teams are in development for the next season.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, Trail RFC aims to offer a place for everyone.
“Rugby is for every person, no matter their fitness level or experience, which makes it such a fantastic sport,” said Alexandra Schlosser, director for the women’s team and head of social media.
“Joining our club offers a fun social atmosphere, great exercise, and a big boost to your overall health.”
Trail RFC has even more to celebrate.
As of April 1, BC Rugby officially welcomed the club as a new affiliate member.
This move places Trail RFC in the Kootenay Division of the Northern/Interior Leagues, lining them up to compete against teams like the Elk Valley Bulls and Rocky Mountain Rogues.
“Trail RFC is excited to join the BC Rugby Union as an affiliate member,” said Cory Walker, Trail RFC president.
“We are already seeing immense growth, from our mini rugby program to our senior men’s and women’s teams, and we look forward to building even further as part of BC Rugby.”
The club also carries on a proud legacy: the Trail Colonials, a once-thriving team that went quiet in recent years.
Now, with the launch of the region’s first-ever women’s team, Trail RFC is making history of its own.
“We are so excited to have rugby in the West Kootenay again after years of nothing,” Schlosser added.
“We’re picking up the legacy that the Trail Colonials had to pause—and writing a new chapter with our women’s side.”
John Tait, Interim CEO of BC Rugby, echoed the energy around Trail RFC’s return.
“We are excited to welcome Trail RFC to the BC Rugby family," Tait said.
"We are seeing promising growth in our Northern and Interior Leagues, and the addition of Trail RFC in the Kootenay Division will no doubt provide more competition and more games within the region.”
For the uninitiated, rugby is a fast-paced contact sport that blends endurance, teamwork, and strategy.
The objective: move the ball across the goal line or through the uprights to score more points than the other team.
It’s a tough, fast-paced game with an atmosphere that welcomes everyone.
Rugby’s roots in Canada date back to the 1860s.
The Montreal Football Club, the country’s first official rugby team, was founded in 1868. Since then, the sport has steadily gained ground nationwide, with fresh momentum now building in B.C. interior, including right here in Trail.
Want to give it a shot?
Trail RFC is hosting a free "Try Rugby Day" on Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Upper Sunningdale Field.
It’s open to men and women ages 16+.
Scan the RSVP code on Trail RFC’s socials or email trailrfc@gmail.com to sign up.
Trail RFC invites the community to get involved and be part of something more than just a sport. It’s a team, a family, and a chance to build something lasting in the heart of the West Kootenay.
For updates, follow Trail RFC on Facebook and Instagram.
To learn more about BC Rugby, visit www.bcrugby.com.
