If you're an adult in Escanaba or Delta County looking for a new team sport, a reason to get in shape, or a group of people to train with every week, rugby is worth a look. The Escanaba Berserkers Rugby Football Club runs beginner-friendly adult men's rugby every Wednesday at 7:00 PM at Ludington Park — and you don't need any experience to come out.
What rugby offers adults
- A real team sport — not a pickup game. You train with the same group every week and travel to tournaments together.
- Full-body fitness. Rugby mixes running, strength, agility, and conditioning, so practice doubles as a workout.
- A place for every body type. Bigger, stronger players and smaller, faster players both have clear roles on the field.
- Community. The club is built on showing up for each other on and off the pitch.
- A fresh challenge. Most new players have never played before — learning a new sport as an adult is part of the appeal.
Who it fits
The Wednesday session is for adult men (18+). Former football, hockey, wrestling, and soccer athletes usually pick it up quickly because the movement, contact, and team play feel familiar. Complete beginners are just as welcome — experienced players and club leaders teach the basics from the ground up.
If you're not sure rugby is your sport, that's fine. Come watch, ask questions, and join in at whatever level feels right.
What your first session is like
- 1Show up at Ludington Park in Escanaba a few minutes before 7:00 PM on a Wednesday.
- 2Introduce yourself — someone will point you to the group and explain the plan for the night.
- 3Warm up with the team, then work through basic passing, catching, and movement.
- 4Learn safe fundamentals at your own pace. Nobody expects a beginner to know the rules.
During the offseason, Wednesdays may focus on fundamentals, fitness, touch rugby, or club activity rather than a full competitive practice.
What to bring
- Athletic clothes you can move in
- A water bottle
- Cleats if you have them (sneakers are fine to start)
- A mouthguard if you have one
How to get started
You can simply show up Wednesday at 7:00 PM. If you'd like the club to expect you, send a quick optional RSVP on the Try Rugby page. Check the schedule page for the weekly session and upcoming club events, and the fitness page for how the Berserkers train.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need rugby experience to join?
No. Most new Berserkers had never played rugby before. Experienced players and club leaders teach the basics.
When and where does the club meet?
Wednesdays at 7:00 PM at Ludington Park in Escanaba, Michigan.
Do I have to sign up before coming?
No. You can simply show up. The RSVP form on the Try Rugby page is optional.
Who can play?
The Wednesday session is adult men's rugby for players 18 and older.
Is it a good workout?
Yes. Rugby combines running, strength, and conditioning, so sessions double as a full-body workout.
Keep learning
Guide
Rugby in Michigan's Upper Peninsula: Where to Play & How to Start
Where to play rugby in the U.P., who the Escanaba Berserkers welcome, and exactly how a complete beginner gets started.
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Guide
What Is Rugby?
A plain-English introduction to the game — how it's played, how it's scored, and why it hooks the people who try it.
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Guide
Rugby Positions Explained
The 15 positions on a rugby pitch, what each does, and where a new player usually starts.
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