SoCal Rugby Is Rising: A New Era of Growth, Community, and Champions

Rugby in Southern California continues to surge forward with momentum and community passion. With more teams taking the field, more girls joining the game, and clubs rebuilding stronger than ever, SoCal Youth Rugby stands as a vibrant and fast-growing rugby region. The energy isn’t just on the pitch—it’s in the families who stay year-round, the coaches who build pathways, and the clubs who champion the growth of every player, from U8 rookies to high-school standouts.

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“This is one of the most exciting moments in the history of SoCal Youth Rugby. The momentum is coming from the ground up—families, coaches, volunteers, and clubs who show up every week to build something bigger than themselves. Participation is surging, girls’ rugby is exploding, and our clubs are competing—and winning—at the highest levels. We’re not just developing players; we’re building pathways, opening doors, developing our referees, educating more coaches, and creating rugby fans for life. Our growth isn’t just in numbers—it’s in character, culture, and connection. That unity across our region is what makes SoCal Youth Rugby such a powerful force,” Tom Judge, SoCal Youth Rugby President.

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Current Landscape

The foundation of SoCal Youth Rugby’s success lies in its diverse and expanding player base. Over the past two years, the U12 Coed and Girls U15 divisions have seen a remarkable 35% growth, highlighting a spike in young athletes discovering rugby’s unique blend of teamwork, toughness, and joy. The surge doesn’t stop there. High school rugby is on the rise, with the High School 15s program growing 19% from 2024 to 2025. 

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Collaboration is also fueling expansion. Several clubs have built strong partnerships with local Pop Warner football programs, creating player continuity and offering families and kids an opportunity to play together from flag football straight to rugby. This crossover has boosted participation and strengthened bonds between clubs and their neighborhoods.

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Highlights & Success Stories

Beyond the growth of the grassroots game and participation levels, SoCal Youth Rugby club programs have shone on the national stage and recorded some impressive results with three National Championships. 

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2025 National Championships:

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• San Diego Mustangs – Club Tier 1 National Champions
  
  
• South OC Raptors – Club Tier 2 National Champions
  
  
• Belmont Shore – Girls Club National Champions

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These victories don’t just mark titles—they reflect deep coaching expertise, player talent, and a rugby culture built over decades.

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Equally exciting is the resurgence of clubs that struggled during post-COVID years. Communities are rebuilding programs, energizing volunteers, and welcoming new families back into the fold.

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One standout moment from Summer 7s 2025: Back Bay and Encinitas Dragons both fielded all-girls U10 teams competing in the co-ed division—just as any all-boys team would. A powerful symbol of confidence, skill, and the next generation of female athletes rising.

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Looking Ahead

The SoCal rugby calendar is packed, fast-moving, and full of opportunities for players of every age. Over just six months, the region runs four seasons:

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• January–February: U8–U14 Coed
  
  
• January–February: High School 15s and 7s
  
  
• March–May: U15–U18
  
  
• May–June: Summer 7s
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It's a thrilling, high-tempo rhythm that keeps players engaged and clubs buzzing.

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While SoCal’s 70+ clubs and high schools host the majority of clinics and community events, the SoCal Youth Rugby Board is elevating visibility through new social media campaigns designed to spotlight the personality of each club and the distinct SoCal rugby culture.

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Development & Initiatives

One of the most exciting new initiatives is “Everyone on the Pitch,” a need-based scholarship program launched this fall. The goal: remove barriers so passion—not finances—determines who gets to join the rugby community. Everyone on the Pitch provides financial support for:

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• Player registration fees
  
  
• USA Rugby Level 1 Coach course
  
  
• USA Rugby Level 1 Referee course

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Looking ahead to 2026, referee development is a continued focus as SoCal manages and allocates its own referee pool. For 2026 play, SoCal has:

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• Certified eight new Coach of Match Officials (CMO)

• Updated and streamlined SoCal Youth referee pathways
  
  
• Increased compensation
  
  
• Purchased new tools like radio communication sets and review-quality cameras
  
  

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Get Involved

For families ready to jump in, the pathway is simple:

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👉 Visit socalyouth.rugby

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You’ll find club directories, season details, coaching and referee resources, and everything needed to get started.
Questions? You can also reach out to SoCal Youth Rugby directly at valory@socalyouth.rugby.

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Whether you're a parent looking for a team, a player ready for a new challenge, or a volunteer eager to support a growing movement, SoCal Youth Rugby welcomes you into a community built on teamwork, character, and the love of the game.