If you are looking for a different sport for your daughter – one that will let her grow while learning positive values and having fun – Sharlyne Poggio, program coordinator for the Olympia Girls Flag Ruby, recommends joining their team for the upcoming season!
“Rugby builds confidence in a way few sports can,” shares Sharlyne. “Every body type has a role. Every player handles the ball. Everyone plays offense and defense. It teaches teamwork, communication, strategic thinking, and grit. All while fostering an incredibly supportive team culture!”
Girls Flag Rugby in Thurston County
The team is run by a community-led nonprofit that was started in 2018 by Erin Kennedy, Hannah Harper and Jenn Heinrich. “They recognized a gap in athletic opportunities and a clear need to grow the sport of rugby for young girls in their community,” says Sharlyne. “What began with an idea has grown into a movement—empowering thousands of girls across the country through sport, leadership, and community.”
Rugby teaches leadership, communication, accountability, mental toughness, respect, confidence and strategic thinking under pressure, says Sharlyne. “The culture of rugby is deeply rooted in respect among referees, teammates, and opponents alike,” she adds.
Unlike regular rugby, flag rugby removes the contact – no tackles – and instead the athletes pull flags, just like in flag football. This can help youth who may be in interested in rugby but not ready for full contact. “Flag rugby removes contact and focuses on passing, spatial awareness, teamwork, and game flow,” says Sharlyne. “It allows athletes to build skills and confidence before ever worrying about tackling. It’s fast, fun, and incredibly empowering.”
Join Olympia’s Girls Flag Ruby Team
Community volunteers keep the team going each season, which runs in the spring and fall each year for girls in second through eighth grades. They are not affiliated with a school or school district, so girls from all over are welcome to join. Practice locations are in Olympia and Lacey. Practice is one weeknight per week for an hour and 15 minutes and games are on the weekend.
Athletes do not need to know anything about rugby, or have any prior experience. The team teaches all the basic rules and skills in a “fun, supportive environment that emphasizes teamwork, leadership, confidence and positive core values,” says Sharylne. If you or your child is not sure about just jumping into the full season, they do host free Try-Rugby Days throughout the year. These one-day clinics give athletes a chance
