Founded in 2019, the Ypsilanti Rugby Club has quickly established itself as a vital part of the local sports scene. Emerging from the passion and dedication of former Eastern Michigan University (EMU) students and community members, the club has grown from its humble beginnings into a competitive force in Michigan’s Division 4 rugby.
The club's origins trace back to the efforts of EMU alums who, after experiencing challenges with late-night practice schedules and declining participation on campus, decided to take a bold step. They transitioned from an EMU-affiliated team to a community-based club, opening the doors to a broader pool of players from the Ypsilanti area and beyond. This move attracted diverse athletes, including residents, EMU alums, and players from neighboring cities like Ann Arbor.
The Ypsilanti Rugby Club’s philosophy is deeply rooted in the spirit of inclusivity and camaraderie. While many of the team’s members have backgrounds in various sports, such as football, wrestling, and even marching band, rugby was a new challenge for most. This hasn’t stopped them from embracing the sport with enthusiasm and grit. The club prides itself on its welcoming nature, encouraging anyone interested in rugby—regardless of experience—to join their ranks.
William Crosby, Director of the Ypsilanti Athletic Club, emphasized the unique appeal of rugby for athletes who may feel a void after their high school or college sports careers end. “If you are a player that is looking to recapture that feeling of being in a huddle. You’re an athlete that’s looking to recapture that huddle—those pre-game jitters on a legitimate level. You are not going to find it post-high school, post-college, anywhere other than rugby. Without it being at an almost inaccessible level, the only thing you're going to find that on is on a minor league basketball or baseball team,” Crosby said.
The club’s accessibility is another major draw. “We are on that level, except we are way more accessible. You have victories and losses,” Crosby continued, highlighting that rugby offers a rare blend of competition and camaraderie that is hard to find in other post-collegiate sports.
For those who fear that the thrill of competitive sports ends with graduation, the Ypsilanti Rugby Club offers a compelling alternative. “You get that electricity, that you felt that if you once you graduate and you don’t get that scholarship kind of deal, and you go ‘all right, it’s done, it’s gone’ it’s not, it’s here,” Crosby added.
The club has hosted a Cinco de Mayo weekend event for the past three years, renting out Willow Run High School to hold a Friday Night Lights game. The club’s philosophy is to embrace challenges, take on more than they can handle, and believe it will lead to growth. Each year, they invite an opponent to compete under the stadium lights. The club envisions a future where the stands are filled, food trucks line the venue, and the event evolves into an all-day tournament.
Practice sessions, held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 p.m., are more than just training; they’re an opportunity for team building and community engagement. The club practices primarily at Frog Island Park, although they often move to different fields around Ypsilanti to connect with various communities. This flexibility helps the club gain visibility and fosters a strong bond with the local area.
The club’s goals are both ambitious and community-focused. In the short term, they aim to make the playoffs again this season, building on their success from the previous year. However, their long-term vision extends beyond just winning games. The Ypsilanti Rugby Club is actively working towards reestablishing a rugby club at EMU, allowing current students to continue playing rugby beyond their college years. By mentoring and coaching an EMU club team, the Ypsilanti Rugby Club hopes to lay the groundwork for a strong rugby tradition at the university.
In addition to its current goals, the Ypsilanti Rugby Club focuses on increasing recruitment at Eastern Michigan University to eventually reestablish a college team there. In the meantime, the club offers individuals an opportunity to play on its senior squad. They are eager to welcome new players and invite anyone interested to participate in a practice or discuss the matter further.
Tim McCotter, one of the team’s captains, has been a dedicated member of the Ypsilanti Rugby Club for eight years. His leadership and commitment have been crucial in shaping the team’s success and fostering a strong sense of community. Tim speaks highly of their head coach, Jason Anthony, a two-time national champion with the University of Michigan women's team. He has won both the Big Ten and national college rugby championships. “It’s a privilege to have him because Jason really knows drills, knows things that’ll get us ready for games, knows how to train us on the proper skill. He’s not just some guy,” McCotter said.
For anyone looking to join a sport that combines athleticism with a strong sense of community, the Ypsilanti Rugby Club offers an inviting and supportive environment. Whether you’re an experienced player or someone new to the sport, the club eagerly welcomes you. With their eyes set on immediate success and long-term sustainability, the Ypsilanti Rugby Club is poised to become a cornerstone of the local sports landscape for years to come.
Up Next
Don’t miss the Ypsilanti Rugby Club’s next match as they kick off the 2024 season at home on Saturday, August 24, at 2 p.m. The game will be held at Ford Heritage Park, where they will take on the Findlay Rugby Football Club. It’s a great chance to support your local rugby team and enjoy the thrill of live rugby action! Follow them on Instagram @ypsi_rugby and @easternclubrugby for updates and more!
