Looking for rugby in Michigan's Upper Peninsula? The Escanaba Berserkers Rugby Football Club is based in Escanaba and welcomes adult men's players from across the U.P. — whether you've played for years or have never touched a rugby ball.
Based in Escanaba, open to the whole U.P.
The club trains in Escanaba, but players don't have to live in town. Players from Gladstone and the rest of Delta County are a short drive away, and the club welcomes players from Marquette, Iron Mountain, Menominee, Houghton, and elsewhere in the Upper Peninsula who want to be part of a rugby team.
How to start as a beginner
- 1Read a quick primer on how the game works so the first session makes sense.
- 2Skim the positions guide to see where different athletes tend to fit.
- 3Come out on a Wednesday at 7:00 PM at Ludington Park — or send an optional RSVP first.
- 4Learn the fundamentals with the team. Coaches and experienced players will help you along.
Bring athletic clothes, water, cleats if you have them, and a mouthguard if you have one. During the offseason, sessions may focus on fundamentals, fitness, touch rugby, or club activity.
Tournaments and the bigger picture
The Berserkers have traveled to tournaments around the Midwest and are planning Valhalla 10s, an inaugural tournament at Ludington Park in Escanaba on Saturday, June 5, 2027. It's a chance to see rugby played in the U.P. and a goal for new players to train toward.
Who the club is for right now
Active programming today is adult men's rugby (18+). Youth rugby is in development for the future; parents can register interest through the club's youth page.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a rugby club in Michigan's Upper Peninsula?
Yes. The Escanaba Berserkers Rugby Football Club is based in Escanaba and welcomes adult men's players from across the U.P.
Where does the club practice?
Wednesdays at 7:00 PM at Ludington Park in Escanaba, Michigan.
I live in Marquette or Iron Mountain — can I still play?
Yes. Players from across the Upper Peninsula are welcome to come out and train with the club.
Can complete beginners join?
Yes. No rugby experience is required; the basics are taught at practice.
What is Valhalla 10s?
A planned inaugural 10-a-side rugby tournament hosted by the Berserkers at Ludington Park in Escanaba on Saturday, June 5, 2027.
Keep learning
Guide
Looking for Adult Sports in Escanaba? Try Rugby
A new team sport, a real fitness challenge, and a welcoming crew — what adult men's rugby in Escanaba offers and how to show up for your first Wednesday.
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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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