Houston SaberCats to Host Historic Houston ISD Rugby Championships & Tailgate Celebration

The Houston SaberCats, in partnership with Major League Rugby (MLR), are hosting a historic event on Saturday, April 5. This day will celebrate the first-ever junior high rugby champions from the Houston Independent School District (HISD).

The fun starts at 2 p.m. with championship games for six junior high teams. There will be a pre-game tailgate, culminating in the SaberCats' game against Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) at 7 p.m. at SaberCats Stadium.

HISD's pioneering school-backed rugby league marks a historic milestone as it is the first of its kind in the United States. This season, an impressive roster of over 180 student-athletes is participating, with nearly 150 players gearing up to showcase their skills and athleticism on the field.

Supported by Major League Rugby’s substantial annual investment of approximately $1 million in grassroots programs, the initiative aims to introduce students to the exciting world of rugby from a young age. By fostering this early exposure to the sport, the league seeks to ignite a lifelong passion for rugby and nurture the next generation of dedicated rugby players.

For those staying around for the SaberCats’ evening match, a special halftime show is planned, featuring a ceremony to recognize and celebrate the efforts of the young players. This event will showcase emerging talent and further solidify Houston’s reputation as a progressive city for youth sports.

The inaugural HISD Rugby Championship promises to be a memorable occasion, honoring the dedication, hard work, and commitment of young athletes; it is a celebration of youth, sport, and community spirit.