Exploring the Vibrant Rugby Culture of Wichita

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Josh West: The Coach
3. The Journey of a Rugby Player
4. The Different Divisions of Rugby
5. The Culture of Rugby
6. Joining the Rugby Community
7. Building a Welcoming Environment
8. Future Plans for Wichita Rugby
9. Recap of Recent Achievements
10. Final Words

Introduction

Welcome to Turtleneck Table Talk, the Podcast where we engage in insightful conversations while promoting our community. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Josh West, the coach of Wichita Rugby. Josh is not only an amazing human being but also a highly experienced rugby player and coach. In this article, we will Delve into Josh's journey as a rugby player, the different divisions of rugby, the culture of the sport, and the steps to join the rugby community. We will also discuss the efforts made by Josh to build a welcoming environment for individuals of all skill levels. Furthermore, we will explore the future plans for Wichita Rugby and highlight their recent achievements. Join us as we dive into the exciting world of rugby with Josh West!

Josh West: The Coach

Josh West is a remarkable individual who has been involved with Wichita Rugby for over a decade. Starting as a player, he quickly fell in love with the sport and became dedicated to learning the game. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, including a period of physical pain that forced him to take a break from rugby, Josh persevered and returned to the field with a renewed passion. His commitment and determination led to him being voted as the team's captain for several years before assuming the role of coach in 2021.

Throughout his journey, Josh has shown a strong focus on creating a positive and inclusive environment within the team. He values the importance of having fun while learning, and encourages players to embrace their individuality and unique abilities. By leading by example and being present for every training session and game, Josh has cultivated a Sense of camaraderie and unity among the team members.

The Journey of a Rugby Player

When Josh first began playing rugby, he had little knowledge of the sport. However, his natural athletic ability and willingness to learn quickly made him an asset to the team. Over the years, Josh honed his skills and became an integral part of the Wichita Rugby community. He experienced the thrill of winning the national championship and faced both personal and team setbacks. Through it all, he Never lost his love for the game and remains passionate about sharing that love with others.

The Different Divisions of Rugby

Rugby in the United States is divided into several levels, each catering to different skill levels and locations. Professional rugby, known as Major League Rugby (MLR), represents the highest level of competition. Division 1 (D1) comprises mostly teams from major cities with larger populations and a larger talent pool to draw from. Division 2 (D2) consists of teams in smaller cities that may not have the same resources as D1 teams. Division 3 (D3) is considered grassroots rugby, where players often learn the sport for the first time. Finally, there is a social level of play for those who simply want to enjoy the culture of rugby without the pressure of intense training and competition.

The Culture of Rugby

Rugby has a unique culture that sets it apart from other sports. It is built on camaraderie, inclusivity, and a strong sense of community. Unlike traditional American sports where aggression on the field can carry over into personal relationships, rugby fosters an environment of respect and sportsmanship. After a game, players from opposing teams come together to socialize and bond, even if they were fierce competitors on the field. This aspect of rugby encourages Meaningful connections and lifelong friendships.

Joining the Rugby Community

For those unfamiliar with rugby, it may be tempting to question why one would choose to play a sport that is relatively unknown in the United States. However, the intangible benefits of rugby, such as the strong sense of community, the opportunity to challenge oneself physically and mentally, and the joy of being part of a team, make it a worthwhile pursuit. Josh emphasizes that rugby is more than just a game; it is a way of life that promotes growth, resilience, and lifelong connections.

Building a Welcoming Environment

As a coach, Josh places great importance on creating a welcoming environment for newcomers to the sport. He believes that rugby should be an inclusive space where individuals of all skill levels feel comfortable and valued. By fostering a supportive atmosphere, Josh ensures that everyone has a chance to learn, grow, and contribute to the team's success. He encourages players to focus on their own progress and not compare themselves to others, acknowledging that everyone has unique strengths and abilities.

Future Plans for Wichita Rugby

Looking ahead, Wichita Rugby has exciting plans for growth and development. Josh envisions taking the team on tours to other parts of the country, such as the West Coast, and even expanding internationally to countries like Argentina. These endeavors would provide players with new experiences, promote the sport of rugby, and strengthen the bonds within the team. Wichita Rugby also aims to improve its online presence and recruitment strategies to reach a larger audience and attract more individuals to the sport.

Recap of Recent Achievements

In recent seasons, Wichita Rugby has had significant success on the field. They have enjoyed an undefeated regular season, demonstrating their skill and determination. While playoffs may have resulted in some losses, the team has used these experiences as learning opportunities to refine their game and strive for continuous improvement. With a dedicated coaching staff and a passionate group of players, Wichita Rugby is poised for future success.

Final Words

Rugby is a sport unlike any other, offering a unique Blend of athleticism, strategy, and camaraderie. Through the journey and experiences of Josh West, we have gained insights into the world of rugby and the remarkable community that surrounds it. Whether You are a seasoned player or someone curious about trying a new sport, Wichita Rugby provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals of all backgrounds and skill levels. So, lace up your boots, grab a rugby ball, and join the ranks of the Wichita Rugby community. You won't just be joining a team; you'll be joining a family.