Practices began this week. The program is designed to introduce the sport to girls and boys between the ages of 14 and 19. There is no school district restriction.

Each player is required to pay a $35 fee for the league and a $14 yearly fee to register with USA Rugby. Each player receives a pair of rugby shorts and socks and a one-year membership to the Boys & Girls Club of Erie.

Indoor practices will take place Mondays and Fridays from 5:30 -7 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club, 1515 East Lake Road, and will move to the football field adjacent to the club March 3, weather permitting. Outdoor practices will take place Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:50-7 p.m. through May.

For information, contact the rugby club at erieyouthrugby@gmail.com; call John Humphrey at (814) 566-3650 or Jeremy Jaeger at (814) 464-3713; or visit www.erierugby.com.