For the first few weeks of my sophomore fall the thought of showing up to rugby practice brought about an intense amount of fear. There was something terrifying about meeting a bunch of new people while attempting the whole sports thing as someone who was never really into team sports, and preferred to spend time alone at the rock gym. After two weeks of mulling around, I brought up the courage to go to my first practice, and I can confidently say it was one of the best decisions I've made during my time at Union. There are so many reasons why the women's rugby team at Union College is worth joining, and I'm here to tell you why.

For starters, everyone is extremely welcoming. We're always excited for new recruits and more people to join us both on and off the field. Whether you're a first year or upperclassman, there's always a place for you. The team is like one giant family of wonderful unique ladies with so much rugby love to go around. I mean, where else are you going to find a group of people you can tackle on the daily, and still be friends with? So much goes on with the rugby team whether we're at practice, games, or just hanging out with each other.

No matter what you deem your fitness level to be, there's a place for you on the team. Whether you're a beginner or played rugby previously, both the coach and the veteran members will work with you towards improving your skills as a player. Even though fitness days can be brutal and practices can run long, it's always a blast working out and becoming the best rugger you can be. As a self proclaimed potato that started her rookie season completely out of shape, I can attest to this.

Union Women's Rugby is a part of NSCRO, the National Small College Rugby Organization, so during the fall we have games nearly every weekend until the end of October. Last year we made it to league playoffs where we were runner ups, and even ranked ninth in the NSCRO Fall rankings. Whether you play for the whole game, just a couple minutes, or didn't get to play during a particular week, just watching and cheering on your teammates is super fun.

Joining the rugby team was one of the best decisions I've made at Union College for so many reasons. If you're looking to try something new, find a way to keep in shape, or make new friends, I can assure you the rugby team will welcome you with open arms. So come on and take a risk this upcoming school year, and join us Union ruggers! See you all at 4:30 at the flag pole!