Rugby is one of the fastest-growing youth sports in the United States and Long Island has an active rugby community built on a 50-year tradition. The Long Island Rugby Football Club (LIRFC), founded in 1972, anchors the Nassau County rugby scene while Long Island Youth Rugby in Northport and Suffolk Bull Moose in Farmingdale serve the wider island community.
From co-ed youth flag rugby for ages 6–12 through competitive U19 and adult club programs, Long Island has a rugby pathway for every age and experience level. Browse all LI rugby programs below.
Youth rugby under USA Rugby guidelines is safe. Flag rugby (non-contact) is recommended under age 10. Full contact begins at U12 with modified laws, reduced contact, and mandatory coaching certification.
Rugby 7s will debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, creating major national interest. Long Island's athletic culture and strong club network make it a prime market for youth rugby growth.
Rugby union (15 players per side) is the Olympic format and what most Long Island youth clubs play. Rugby 7s (7 players) is the fast-paced Olympic version. Rugby league is a separate professional code popular in Australia and the UK.
Browse YouthSportsConnect's rugby listings. Key programs include Nassau County RFU, Bethpage RFC Youth, Long Island RFC, and Hauppauge Eagles Rugby. Many programs offer free introductory sessions.
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