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The European tradition of rugby has recently spread into the U.S. The crowds are smaller than other major sports, but support is growing and the sport is getting plenty of attention.
In Hastings, rugby is emerging as a new and upcoming sport. The Tri-City team is comprised of local adults and students. However, in support, recognition and skill, the team is still getting its feet on the ground.
The Tri-City Predators are a part of the Great Plains Rugby Conference. They travel to host cities in the conference to compete in games as well as larger tournaments.
The season and post season last from the first week of March until the end of June, and the team practices twice a week.
At this point, the predators have a fluctuating roster and a rotation of interest. With these changes, it has been a tough season for the team in its first years.
"We are constantly getting new team members," said Angelo Martinez, one of four HC students on the team.
Martinez started playing rugby two months ago and joined the team for something to do.
In rugby, the field is called a pitch and is around the size of a football field. There are two H-shaped goals on each end of the pitch as well as two end zones. The oval-shaped ball cannot be passed forward, only to the side and back.
"The biggest change from football to rugby is the running" Martinez said.
April 24 was the final game for the Predators and their first win of the season.
"We have had a tough season, but it was nice to end with a win," Martinez said.
The Predators compete in the Great Plains conference with teams from Nebraska, South Dakota, Minnesota, Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, Texas and Kansas.
