Boys Rugby

The Parker Rugby program has flourished since launching with just a dozen players four years ago (only two had ever played rugby). We now have both JV and Varsity “7s” teams and over two dozen players…and growing. The team welcomes all players – large, small, fast, or physical - regardless of experience. Our excellent coaching staff are experts at teaching and coaching the game. The team placed #2 in all of Southern California in 2022 and #3 last year.

Rugby is one of the fastest-growing team sports in the United States. 7s is the faster format of the game and an Olympic sport. As such, rugby can be a terrific avenue for helping get into colleges like UCLA, St. Mary’s, Cal/UC Berkeley, BYU, and more. Parker Rugby is proud of our half dozen players who have gone on to try rugby in college or still play for their schools.

Parker’s coaching staff is led by Ben Pinkelman, a member of the current US National team and the 2016 Olympic rugby team. Assistant Coach Faitala “Tala” Talapusi is also a member of the US National Team. Both coaches subscribe to the Positive Coaching Alliance.

The Parker Rugby program is focused on developing rugby skills, safety, and FUN! The individual skills, physical fitness, and mental toughness are transferable to and helpful for other sports. The rugby culture is unique and best understood by talking to current players. After challenging the opposing team on the pitch, it is traditional to host them after the match with food and friendly conversation. Parker’s home tournament taco trucks, senior night, team parties, and alumni games are indicative of the social nature of the sport and emblematic of the tight bonds the players and parents share. Come join us!

If parents or players have further questions about Parker Rugby, contact team manager Warren Spieker at wspieker@francisparker.org.