Raleigh Rugby Club

🏆🏉 STATE FINALS DAY 🏉🏆

What an exciting season it has been for our high school programs! Today BOTH our U19 Cobras 🐍 and U19 Rattlesnakes 🐍 are competing for a State Championship title 💪🔥

📍 Northeast Park, Gibsonville, NC

🐍 HS U19 Cobras State Finals
🏉 12:00 PM

🐍 HS U19 Rattlesnakes Tier 1 State Finals
🏉 12:30 PM

To our players, coaches, and families—what a journey this season has been. The hard work, growth, commitment, and heart shown by these teams has been incredible to watch.
We are so proud of you all and can’t wait to cheer you on today! 💛🏉

Good luck Cobras and Rattlesnakes—go leave it all on the pitch! 🔥

🏉🏆

🔥 Senior Spotlight 2026: Alaina Sandberg 🔥

Alaina Sandberg has spent the last 7 years building her presence on the field—playing lock, flanker, and 8 man with strength, grit, and confidence. What started with her brother picking up the game quickly turned into something that would shape who she is today.

One of her favorite memories? Playing in Ireland. Competing against different teams, learning new styles of play, and experiencing the game on a whole new level. It’s moments like that that show just how far rugby can take you.

For Alaina, rugby has been a confidence builder in every sense. It’s pushed her beyond what she thought she was capable of physically and mentally. Over the years, she’s discovered a strength within herself that she didn’t know existed, proving that she’s capable of so much more than she ever imagined.
The biggest lesson she’s taking with her? Your body and your mind are stronger than you think. You just have to trust it and keep showing up.

After graduation, Alaina is heading to UNC Wilmington, where she plans to continue playing club rugby. She’s excited for what’s ahead meeting her people, figuring out her next chapter, and continuing to explore the world.

She gives a heartfelt thank you to her mom for always showing up and helping build the confidence she carries today, along with every coach who helped her grow in the game. And a special shoutout to Nakato, her teammate since day one, for always being there through it all.

Fun fact: before rugby, Alaina spent 10 years as a dancer 💃

If she could give advice to younger players? Keep working, keep learning, and never doubt yourself. You’re more capable than you think.

💬 “You’re stronger than you think.”

❤️ Senior Spotlight 2026: Alaina Sandberg (From Kelly) ❤️

One of the most rewarding parts of watching Alaina’s rugby journey has been seeing her confidence grow both on and off the pitch. Rugby has helped shape her into someone who is determined, tough, and team-oriented, and watching that transformation has been incredible.

She took on a sport that was completely new and challenging. From the physicality to the strategy to stepping into leadership roles and never backed down. Through hard work and commitment, she exceeded every expectation and proved just how far she could go.

Some of my favorite memories go all the way back to her first season. I remember her going up in a lineout against a big, physical team, getting knocked down hard… and then popping right back up like it was nothing and chasing the ball. In that moment, I knew this sport was meant for her. And over the years, watching that “switch” flip. Seeing her find her aggressiveness and play with grit and confidence has been so special.

What makes me most proud is the way she leads. Alaina brings energy, positivity, and encouragement every time she steps on the field. She plays the game the right way unselfish, focused, and always putting her team first.

As she moves forward, I hope she carries that confidence into every part of her life. Whether it’s school, work, or wherever her path takes her. I hope she finds her people, explores the world, and continues to do what she loves.

Alaina, keep going and never stop. Come home and see me! And always remember keep living your dash.

Hold onto the memories: the late nights, road trips, hotel stays, the highs and lows. It all shaped you into who you are today. And I couldn’t be more proud. ❤️

💬 “Keep living your dash.”

🔥 Senior Spotlight 2026: Nakato Myers 🔥
Nakato Myers has been part of rugby for as long as she can remember. 10+ years in the game and still going strong. With both of her parents having played for Raleigh Rugby and been involved in growing the youth program, the sport has always been part of her story. Now playing outside center, Nakato continues to carry that legacy forward.

For Nakato, rugby has been about so much more than just the game. It’s taught her how to work with others, adapt to challenges, and handle adversity with strength and composure. Being part of a team has shaped who she is. Through the highs, the challenges, and everything in between. And along the way, she’s built friendships that she knows will last a lifetime.

If there’s one thing rugby has taught her, it’s grit. Showing up, even on the days you don’t feel like it, and giving everything you have. That’s where real growth happens.

Next up, Nakato is heading to Dartmouth College, where she’ll continue her rugby career at the next level. She’s excited to keep pushing herself, competing, and seeing just how far the game can take her.

She gives a huge thank you to her parents for their constant support and for always pushing her to be her best, along with all the coaches, teammates, friends, and mentors who have believed in her along the way.

Fun fact: off the field, Nakato plays the violin and loves family jam sessions 🎻

If she could give advice to younger players? Play with passion, give it everything you’ve got, and most importantly enjoy it. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out of it.

💬 “Show up, stay tough, and give it your all.”

❤️ Senior Spotlight 2026: Nakato Myers (From Isaac & Sunny) ❤️
Watching Nakato grow through rugby has been one of the greatest rewards of our lives. The game has given her space to truly become herself on and off the pitch. We’ve seen her build confidence, find her voice, and step into who she is with strength and purpose.

Nakato is the kind of teammate everyone wants. She leads without needing the spotlight. Through her consistency, her presence, and the way she shows up for others. She stays focused, avoids the noise, and quietly puts in the work to chase her goals. Her commitment to this club over the years speaks volumes about who she is.

Her journey hasn’t been easy. Coming to the U.S. at four years old, facing early challenges, and learning a new language; yet still growing into a top student and strong, compassionate leader says everything about her resilience. She has always leaned into challenges, playing up, competing at higher levels, and never backing down.

Some of our favorite memories include watching her step onto the national stage at USA Rugby camps, and that unforgettable U12 State Championship run an underdog team that came together and proved everyone wrong. Moments like those are what this journey is all about.

What makes us most proud is who Nakato is at her core. She is disciplined, self-aware, kind, and grounded. She leads with integrity, lifts those around her, and carries herself with quiet strength. She embodies what it means to be a true teammate and a “High Woman”—doing the work, staying accountable, and leading with heart.

Nakato, as you step into this next chapter at Dartmouth, never forget who you are. Trust yourself, take up space, and keep chasing your dreams. We’ll always be right here, cheering you on.
We are so proud of you. We love you. And don’t forget…text us back. ❤️

💬 “Some women fear the fire, some women simply become it.”

🔥 Senior Spotlight 2026: Louisa Hinds 🔥

Louisa Hinds has spent the last four years making her mark all over the field—playing 7, 8, 12, 13, and 14. What started as a simple invite from a friend at youth group quickly turned into something she loved from day one.

One of her favorite memories? Winning the state championship last year—alongside some of her best friends. The kind of moment that makes all the hard work worth it.

For Louisa, rugby has been more than just a sport. It’s been a space to reset, have fun, work hard, and build friendships that mean everything. It gave her a place outside of school where she could truly be herself—and that’s what made it so special.
If there’s one lesson she’s taking with her, it’s that teamwork is everything. You can’t do it alone, and when everyone works together, the game and the experience is so much better.

After graduation, Louisa is heading to the University of Kentucky to study psychology. While she won’t be continuing rugby, the impact it’s had on her will stay with her moving forward. She’s excited for what’s next meeting new people, trying new things, and stepping into a whole new chapter.

A big thank you to Mary and Mike for creating such a positive and fun environment, and for helping her grow in both confidence and love for the game. And a special shoutout to Lilly and Alaina for always being there—on and off the field.

Fun fact: rugby is just one way Louisa expresses herself. She also creates pottery and ceramics 🎨

If she could give advice to younger players? Have fun with it. Don’t be too hard on yourself. The more fun you have, the better you’ll play.

❤️ Senior Spotlight 2026: Louisa Hinds (From Mary Catherine & John) ❤️

One of the most rewarding parts of watching Louisa’s rugby journey has been seeing her step into something new and truly thrive in it. From the very beginning, it was clear she found something she loved, and watching her grow and get really good at it has been such a joy.

Along the way, Louisa has faced challenges that go far beyond the field. She’s learned how to navigate difficult situations and relationships, and through it all, she’s grown into a confident, self-assured young woman.

Some of our favorite memories come from watching her in the moments that mattered most. When the team needed a lift, when things got tough, Louisa was always there. Covering, supporting, stepping up. Doing whatever needed to be done. That presence, that reliability, is something we’ll always remember.

What makes us most proud are the qualities she’s built along the way. Her resilience, her work ethic, her intuition, and her compassion for others. Those are the things that will carry her far in life.

If we could go back to her very first day, we’d tell her something simple: don’t worry you’re going to be great at this.

As she moves forward, we hope she takes with her the understanding that hard work and determination truly pay off and can take you further than you ever imagined.

Louisa, we are so proud of the woman you’ve become. We love you so much and can’t wait to see you embrace all the new opportunities ahead.

And always remember you tried new things, you took chances, and you succeeded. Keep that spirit with you, and there’s no limit to what you can do. ❤️

💬 “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” Maya Angelou

Announcing the return of Raleigh Rugby Club's annual Golf Tournament!

Secure your spot today and if interested in sponsoring a hole please reach out!

🏉✨ Special Shoutout ✨🏉

A huge THANK YOU to our incredible supporters:

WakeMed | Wake Orthopedics
Leigh Brantley Realtor
CNC Carolina
Neomonde Mediterranean

Because of your generosity, we were able to purchase 4 brand new pop-up tents for our youth programs! 🙌

These tents will be put to great use at games and events—rain or shine—helping support our players, families, and community all season long.

We truly appreciate your continued support of Raleigh Rugby Youth and everything you do to help our athletes thrive. 💛🏉

🎉 HUGE Shoutout to Coach Kiwi! 🎉

Celebrating his birthday the best way he knows how… out on the pitch reffing our HS Cobras game today! 🏉

Coach Kiwi, you are truly the BEST. From reffing, to coaching, to supporting NCYRU—and everything in between—you give so much to this game and our community.

We are so grateful for your time, energy, and passion for growing rugby and supporting our players every step of the way.

Happy Birthday, Coach Kiwi! 🥳🧁
We appreciate you more than you know! ❤️🖤

🔥 Senior Spotlight 2026: Sam Wiggins 🔥

Sam Wiggins has been a dedicated rugby player for years, developing his game through the Southern Pines Youth Rugby Program and continuing all the way through high school. This season, he joined Raleigh Rugby when Southern Pines wasn’t able to field a team—and he made an immediate impact.

Stepping into a new environment isn’t always easy, but Sam showed up ready to work. He’s been a consistent starter and a key contributor, bringing effort, toughness, and a team-first mindset every time he takes the field. He also helped strengthen the squad by bringing along a Southern Pines teammate who has contributed in a big way as well.

Sam represents what rugby is all about—commitment, adaptability, and showing up for your team no matter the circumstances.

Looking ahead, Sam plans to attend college this fall and is focused on finding the right fit both academically and on the rugby pitch. Wherever he lands, there’s no doubt he’ll continue to grow and make an impact.

🔥 Senior Spotlight 2026: Everett Tate 🔥

Everett Tate’s rugby journey hasn’t been a straight line—and that’s exactly what makes it his. After playing from 6th through 8th grade, stepping away, and then coming back his senior year, he picked the game back up with a new perspective. Now playing wing and center, Everett brings speed, effort, and a fresh appreciation for every minute on the field.

It all started in a pretty random way—watching rugby in hotel rooms and then seeing a sign on Glenwood Ave. Sometimes that’s all it takes.

One moment that stands out? Running down a kick and finishing it with a try—one of those plays that just clicks.

For Everett, rugby has become an outlet. It’s something to look forward to—a place to clear his head, let out energy, and just go all in. Run, tackle, compete. But beyond that, it’s taught him something bigger: you can’t do everything yourself. Every big play comes from the little things teammates do that don’t always get noticed.

After graduation, Everett is heading to UNC, where he plans to continue playing rugby on the club team. He’s looking forward to the next chapter—more independence, new experiences, and figuring things out along the way.

Shoutout to Coach Mark, Coach PCox, Coach Isaac, and Sunny for being part of his journey over the years.

Fun fact: rugby isn’t even his main sport—Everett is primarily a tennis player and also plays guitar 🎸

If he could give advice to younger players? Learn how to tackle—and do it well.

💬 “You can’t do it alone.”

❤️ Senior Spotlight 2026: Everett Tate (From Brooke & Andrew) ❤️
One of the most rewarding parts of watching Everett grow through rugby has been seeing his dedication to sports remain a constant throughout his life. Whether it’s tennis or rugby, he’s always competed at a high level—while balancing a demanding school schedule and even a part-time job.

This year especially, it’s been incredible to see him find that balance. Rugby has given him a space to be aggressive, fast, and competitive on the field, while also helping him stay focused, reflective, and driven off of it.

What makes us most proud is his work ethic. Everett has always stayed committed to his goals—putting in the work, staying disciplined, and continuing to push himself to be better.

Everett, as you step into this next chapter, trust yourself. Listen to your heart, follow your conscience, and don’t be afraid to be bold. And don’t forget to call home.

We hope you always remember the joy of being part of a team and the excitement of what’s ahead. This is such a special time in your life—take it all in. Just remember, the same hard work that got you here will keep taking you wherever you want to go.
We are so proud of you. ❤️

💬 “Be bold—and don’t forget to call home.”

🔥 Senior Spotlight 2026: Callum Lindsay 🔥

Callum Lindsay has been in the game for a decade, putting in 10 years of work across the back row at both flanker positions and number eight. His rugby journey started in England, where his dad signed him up for a local club—and from there, the game became part of who he is.

One moment that stands out? Winning the Tier 2 State Championship in 2025—a memory that reflects the work, commitment, and grit it takes to get there.

Rugby has given Callum more than just time on the field. It’s brought lifelong friendships, taught him valuable life lessons, and pushed him beyond his limits. Through it all, he’s grown stronger, more confident, and more willing to step into challenges head-on.

If there’s one thing rugby has taught him, it’s commitment. Whether in life or on the pitch, if you’re not all in, you won’t get where you want to go. That mindset has shaped how he approaches everything.

Next up, Callum plans to head to college on a Pre-Med track, while continuing to play rugby wherever he lands. He’s excited for what the future holds—especially where his path in the medical field will take him.

He gives a big thank you to all the coaches who’ve supported him along the way, and especially to his dad, who helped start it all.
Fun fact: even though he grew up in the UK, Callum was actually born right here in Raleigh.

If he could give advice to younger players? If rugby was easy, it wouldn’t be fun—embrace the challenge.

💬 “Commit to it—on and off the field.”

❤️ Senior Spotlight 2026: Callum Lindsay (From Charles & Sara) ❤️
Callum’s rugby journey started at just seven years old, and from that first day to now, it’s been an incredible ride—one we wouldn’t change for anything. Watching him grow from a boy into a young man through the game has been something truly special.

Along the way, one of the biggest things Callum has learned is ownership—understanding that how you show up and perform is on you. That mindset has shaped not just the player he is, but the person he’s becoming.

Some of the moments that stand out most aren’t always the wins, but the ones after a tough match—when he’s bruised, exhausted, and says, “I need food and sleep.” As a parent, those are the moments you know he gave everything he had.

What makes us most proud is who Callum is at his core. His faith and honesty never waver—he is true to his word, and that’s something that will carry him far in life.

Rugby has always been something he loves, and it always will be. Even through challenges—like recovering from a broken collarbone—it helped shape his path forward and ultimately led him toward pursuing medicine.

If we could go back to the beginning, we’d remind him that there will be moments where emotions take over—but that’s part of the journey. Learn from them, grow from them, and keep moving forward. That’s how you become the man you’re meant to be.

Callum, you’ve already accomplished so much. We hope you continue on this path, and we’re grateful just to be along for the ride.

We love you. ❤️

And always remember—yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift.

Most of all, we hope you look back on your rugby years and know this: you worked hard, you played hard, and you made the most of it. And that’s all we could ever ask.

💬 “Today is a gift.”

🔥 Senior Spotlight 2026: Dominic Bean 🔥

Dominic Bean jumped into rugby three years ago, thanks to friends and family—and it didn’t take long for him to make an impact. Playing across the forward pack at prop, lock, and flanker, Dominic brought toughness, versatility, and a team-first mindset from day one.

One moment that stands out right away? Winning the state championship his very first year playing. Not a bad way to start.

Since picking up the sport, rugby has helped shape Dominic into a better overall athlete. It’s pushed him physically and mentally, teaching him how to stay focused and not get caught up in the small stuff. For him, one of the biggest lessons has been simple—don’t waste energy arguing over things that don’t matter. Just play.

After graduation, Dominic is taking a gap year and stepping into a new chapter, keeping his options open for what comes next—including whether rugby stays part of the journey.

Shoutout to Sam Wiggins for helping get him into the sport, and to everyone who’s been part of the ride along the way.

Fun fact: before rugby, Dominic played basketball and baseball 🏀⚾

If he could give advice to younger players? Don’t be afraid to step into something new. You never know where it might take you.

💬 “Stay focused and just play.”