For Immediate Release

College Rugby

July 8, 2021

Poughkeepsie, NY

Tri-State Conference and the Fall 2021 Season

Following a Zoom Meeting in late June there was a consensus that many teams would be very much in a rebuilding phase in the Fall following the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The hope is that Conference play resumes in the Fall of 2021 but a good number of teams have indicated that squad numbers could be very low. In addition since there been less physical activity and no rugby experienced gained over the last 16 months that teams will struggle to fulfill games.

It is imperative that teams COMMUNICATE in the first 3 days of the week prior to the scheduled game. Actually person to person phone calls should be made so that everyone is on the same page. (Send an e-mail and it might not be read in time or by the right person!) The Tri-State website has cell phone numbers for you to use.

Coaches and team leaders were all in agreement that if we do play in the Fall that the schedule should be followed and results counted toward divisional standings. But in the true spirit of the game it was felt that accommodation be made for those programs with low numbers. In the event of teams having fewer that 15 to play a game teams should opt for the highest number of participants available. 14 v 14, 13 v 13, 12 v 12 etc… in these situations a reduction in the number of forwards at set piece would be permissible but teams should match numbers in the scrum. If necessary substitutes may be used and then return to play if agreed upon prior to kick-off and the referee is informed.

Game examples: If Team A has only 10 players and Team B has 20 players a game of 10s, 12s 13s, 14s or 15s could be played. Teams should agree prior to kick-off the parameters. Team B could loan players to Team A.

It was further discussed that teams need to communicate details to their assigned referee each week with a view that the official is not blindsided by a 12 v 12 game for example.

If necessary when the Conference convenes in August, prior to the season, 3 or 4 teams may be scheduled at the same venue thus allowing full games. A big onus will be on the coaches of each team to reach a consensus as to the number of game participants. Our sport has always been a participatory sport and we need to do all we can to get players on the field playing.

Any questions should be directed to Tony Brown, 845-380-9052 or email tobrown@vassar.edu