Practical information
Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction & joining
Can I have a trial run sometime?
Yes, definitely! You are more than welcome to join us for a few trial training sessions without any obligation. Please contact us beforehand by filling out this form.
I've never played rugby before—can I still join?
Absolutely. Many of our members started without any experience. You will learn the basics step by step during the training sessions. Rugby is a sport for every body type and skill level.
When are the introductory courses and how long do they last?
For seniors, we regularly organize introduction periods at the start and halfway through the season. Usually, you’ll train with us for a few weeks to master the basics before deciding if you want to become a member. If you’re interested, sign up with the intro committee.
Can I also join if I've played rugby before?
Yes. Whether you are from the Netherlands or abroad: you can simply join a suitable team. The coaches will work with you to see where you fit in best.
In which language is the training provided?
The primary language is Dutch, especially for the youth teams, but because Wageningen is an international city, English is also regularly spoken within the senior teams.
Teams, ages & competition
Which teams are there at Rugby Club Wageningen?
RCW has youth teams ranging from age four (the ‘turven’) to under eighteen (the ‘colts’). Additionally, we have two senior men’s teams, two women’s teams, and various options for seniors who want to play the game but still want to be able to walk home upright.
Are the youth teams mixed for boys and girls?
Yes, in the younger categories, boys and girls play together. At a later age, girls can choose to play with the women’s teams.
Do you play in the national league and/or cluster teams?
Our teams play in the official national league. In some age categories, we collaborate with clubs from the region to ensure we have enough players for a full team.
Is there a social team/competition for those who want to play occasionally?
Yes, we have (depending on the season) a social or second team where fun and development are central, and the commitments are a bit less intensive.
Training & times
When do the different teams (youth and seniors) train?
Youth teams usually train once or twice a week in the late afternoon/early evening. Check here for the training schedule per age group. Seniors generally train twice a week in the evening. Current times for the seniors are listed here on the website for each team.
What are the addresses of your training locations?
We mainly train and play on our pitch at Sportpark De Zoom in Wageningen. The youth also train at De Hoekelumse Eng. Sometimes, depending on the team or collaboration, training also takes place at a location in the region.
Does training continue in bad weather / winter?
In principle, yes. Rugby is an outdoor sport and the pitches in Wageningen remain very playable even when wet. Training is only canceled in unsafe conditions such as storms or a frozen pitch.
Can I train once a week or is twice absolutely necessary?
Training once a week is possible, but twice is recommended if you play matches and want to develop your skills.
Matches & tournaments
On which day do you play matches (youth/seniors)?
Youth matches are usually on Saturday mornings or early afternoons. Seniors generally play on Sunday afternoons.
What time are matches usually and how does transport (carpool) work?
Times vary per schedule and are announced during the season via the team apps. For away games, carpooling is usually organized through the team apps.
What do you bring to a match day (food/drink/clothing)?
Rugby boots, mouthguard, sports clothing to wear under your match shirt, shower kit, and possibly some extra food/drinks. It’s always advisable to dress in layers so you can adapt to changing temperatures.
Can parents/supporters come to watch and where can they stand?
Certainly! Supporters are very welcome. They can stand along the sidelines, outside the field of play. Coffee and sweets are sold pitch-side during youth matches.
Membership & fees
How do I become a member and what is needed (registration/details)?
You can register via the registration form on the website. We ask for basic details and permission for registration with the rugby union.
What does rugby cost per season?
Membership fees vary by age category. Youth pay less than seniors. The current rates are listed here on the website.
Are there discounts or arrangements for financial hardship?
Yes. We believe that everyone should be able to play sports. In consultation, there are options through municipal schemes or payment arrangements.
What if I temporarily cannot train?
In case of injury or long-term absence, you can discuss this with the membership administration. Together we will look for a suitable solution.
Safety, injuries & insurance
Is rugby safe?
Yes. Rugby is a contact sport, but safety and respect are central. Good technique and clear rules make it responsible.
What safety measures do you take?
Our trainers are trained according to the guidelines of Rugby Nederland and pay a lot of attention to tackling technique and injury prevention. First aid is present on the pitch during tournament days and matches.
Is a mouthguard mandatory and can I get one through the club?
A mouthguard is mandatory during training and matches. You can buy one yourself; the club also sells them in the clubhouse.
How does insurance work for injuries?
As a member, you are collectively insured through Rugby Nederland for accidents during training and matches. We do recommend checking with your own insurance to see if you are covered for more serious injuries.
Clothing & equipment
Do I strictly need rugby boots?
Boots with studs are highly recommended for grip and safety, especially on natural grass. Rugby boots offer more grip with an extra stud on the toe, but football boots can also be used perfectly fine for rugby.
What is mandatory and what is useful?
Mandatory: mouthguard. Recommended: rugby boots, sturdy sports clothing, thermal underwear in winter, a contact top for rain, and possibly a scrum cap.
Where can I buy club clothing/merchandise?
Match shirts are provided by the club for games. Socks, shorts, and other club clothing are available via our website or through our regular supplier’s shop.
Does the club provide match shirts or do I need my own?
Match shirts are provided by the club. You provide your own appropriate shorts, socks, and boots.
Location, directions & parking
What is the address of Rugby Club Wageningen?
You can find Rugby Club Wageningen at Sportpark De Zoom, Zoomweg 4, 6704 PE Wageningen.
What are the parking rules?
Free parking is available in the designated spaces at Sportpark de Zoom. Parking outside of these spaces may result in a fine. On Saturdays, one-way traffic applies on Zoomweg from south to north. If the parking spaces at the sports park are full, you can park on the right-hand side in the verge.
What should I keep in mind when visiting you?
Parking spaces are limited and Zoomweg is one-way on Saturdays. When the parking spaces at the sports park and along Zoomweg are full, you can park around the corner along Heidepark.
Clubhouse & facilities
Are there changing rooms/showers and when are they open?
The changing rooms and clubhouse usually open 1 hour before the match starts. Ask at the bar for the changing room key.
Is the clubhouse open during training sessions and match days?
On match days, the clubhouse usually opens 1 hour before the start of the match. During training sessions, the clubhouse is open and the bar is run by volunteers.
How can I pay in the clubhouse?
You can pay by card in the clubhouse. During tournaments, payments on the fields and in the clubhouse are sometimes made with tokens. These are available at the bar and can also be purchased by card. It is not possible to pay with cash at Rugby Club Wageningen.
Can I organize something in the clubhouse as a team or company?
This is possible upon request. Please contact the board to discuss the possibilities.