Spotlight on Sport: Men’s Rugby
DMU rugby, also known as ‘the demons’, competes in the Official BUCS league each week. Within the leagues we currently have both a first and second team and we are currently in the process of setting up a third team. Throughout last season we were able to field a strong third team for a number of friendlies and having proved successful, we are aiming to introduce this side into the BUCS league.
We take development within the club very seriously and employ two coaches, who, along with a number of senior players, are in charge of running sessions and aiding the development of both individuals and the team. The success of our third team highlights this and shows how we as a club can take players, some of whom have never played the game before joining, and turn them into skilled players.
Within the club, we place much emphasis also, on the social side. We have a social each Wednesday which see’s the lads visit a number of local bars within the city centre before meeting with the rest of the University sports clubs in the SU. We assign two social secretaries each year who organise events both on a Wednesday and throughout the week. The highlight of our social calendar is the end of season tour in which we, as a club travel to Europe, for a week of partying after a physically tough season. This is a great opportunity for the guys to relax and let off some steam before exams at the end of the year.
Arguably the biggest event of our year is the Varsity match. A game held against our bitter rivals Leicester University at Welford Road, Home of the Leicester Tigers. This takes place on an evening in March with thousands of students in attendance. The lads usually partake in a brutal 6-8 week training regime and is arguably one of the greatest experiences any student could have during their University career.
What is your most memorable moment from last season?
One of the most memorable moments for any Demon is Varsity. Whether representing the first or second team, being selected to play against our bitter rivals is a huge privilege and one that the boys take very seriously. Running out at Welford road in front of 10,000 people was a fantastic opportunity, especially being cheered on by all ex players who return to Leicester just to watch the game. It was also great to meet a number of the tigers players, who presented shirts the shirts to us before the game. Despite the narrow loss, the evening that follows is arguably one of the greatest nights any player can have. The whole varsity experience, including the build up, the game itself and then the partying afterwards is a memorable experience.
What are your aspirations for this season?
This year as previously mentioned, we are looking to have three fully represented teams within the BUCS league, competing weekly with other Universities from all over the country.
We are also looking to go on a Rugby tour to either South Africa or the Southern Hemisphere where we will play a number of games and sample a taste of the local community.
We will also once again be hosting our famous sevens tournament at the end of the year. This see’s all societies come together for a one-of-event filled with Rugby, sunshine (hopefully) and plenty of refreshments.
How much does it cost to join your club?
To join the club, we ask that all members pay £40 subs at the beginning of the year. This small sum helps pay towards running the club, all rugby related costs, and varsity kit, which all playing members will receive during the build up to the big day. The £40 also helps provide for the clubs social area, a space we use on a Wednesday night to host our very special social evening.
Why should students join your club?
Joining DMU Rugby is an opportunity not to be missed. It’s a great way to meet new people, truly enjoy the offerings of University life, keep fit and potentially get the opportunity to play at Welford Road, one of the most prestigious rugby grounds in the world. If you join DMU rugby you will get the opportunity to do things you could never do within any other society and will guarantee you truly enjoy your university experience.
To join DMU Men’s Rugby, find them at the Sports and Societies Fair on Thursday 1st October or get in touch via their links below:
EMAIL: dmurugby@live.co.uk
FACEBOOK: DMU Rugby
TWITTER: @rugby_dmu
INSTRAGRAM: @dmurugby
DSU LINK: DMU Men’s Rugby
