“Rugby is great. The players don’t wear helmets or padding; they just beat the living daylights out of each other and then go for a beer. I love that.” ~Joe Theismann

San Juan is now proud to boast its first ever rugby team.  A collection of Nicaraguans and Expats, residents and backpackers, young and old, the team played in its second official tournament earlier this month in Managua.

This weekend was the first clash in the Nicaraguan Rugby 7′s Circuit and the team from San Juan del Sur did not disappoint, winning the tournament and all four matches by healthy margins.  Also noted was San Juan’s sartorial elegance–bright pink uniforms!

“We decided to wear the pink uniforms to raise awareness for breast cancer,” said Justin Fahey, the clubs media spokesman. He added, “We thought we’d try to do our part to help.”

Five teams are competing on the 7′s Circuit, which will be played over four more weekends in the coming months with the next round in Managua on October 26th.

San Juan beat Chorotega (MGA) 36-5, then defeated Los Lobos de la UNEN (MGA) by the same score.  Next up was the toughest win against Managua 19-5 and finally a sound 20-0 thumping over Granada.

Marc Noonan (UK) won the MVP of the tournament after scoring five tries.  Bastien Mahe (France) and Brett Ross (Australia) were also major contributors to the offensive onslaught.

The San Juan club is actively looking for members, especially local Sanjuaneños.  All ages and levels of experience are welcome.  Rugby 7′s is now an Olympic sport and the Nicaraguan national side will be selected from players on the Circuit.

Please visit San Juan del Sur Rugby Club page on Facebook if you want to come and learn how to play. 

Or contact Justin Fahey at 8810-1112 or Email: fahey.justin@gmail.com.

[originally published in Del Sur News]