Sean Christman, a junior at DeSmet Jesuit High School, has a simple answer for why he started playing rugby: It sounded fun. His older brother also played the sport and encouraged him to try it. He has high hopes for the upcoming season, which starts in the spring.
Is rugby as rough as people think?
You can get injured in any sport, so it’s really over-exaggerated with rugby. People don’t get hurt as often as you think. There’s an optional scrum cap you can wear that protects your ears.
What is the practice schedule like?
During the season, we practice four days a week. In the summer, my teammates and I play in a sevens league (seven players on the field), which is a different form of rugby than through school, when we play with 15 on the field. In fall and winter, we just try to get out and throw the ball around.
How popular is rugby in St. Louis?
It’s a growing sport. There are only eight high schools here that have a team, so we travel all around Missouri.
Do you have any desire to play after high school?
Definitely. There are men’s leagues in St. Louis, and lots of colleges have rugby as a club sport.
How does the team look this year?
I think we’re going to do really well this season. Last year we lost a lot of seniors, so it was a young team, and it was a learning experience for most of the guys. I’m looking forward to this year.
Do you play any other sports?
I wrestle and am a running back and linebacker on the football team, but rugby is my favorite.