BATON ROUGE — The Baton Rouge Area Youth Rugby is gearing up for its annual “Come and Try Day,” an event where kids ages 5-18 can showcase their skills, build camaraderie, and experience the sport of rugby.
Teresa Bui has led the organization of the event since the program’s inception in 2017.
“This event is more than just a game day—it’s a celebration of everything rugby represents: teamwork, resilience, and community,” Bui said. For many children, this event serves as their first introduction to the sport.
A Showcase of Rugby for All Ages
The event is designed for young athletes who are grouped by age to ensure a fair and safe competition.
“We really break them up accordingly,” Bui said. “So the five-year-olds aren’t playing against the 15-year-olds. It’s about letting everyone enjoy the game at their level.
“Rugby is a unique sport in that there’s no individual glory. Everyone plays both offense and defense, and the game requires constant teamwork. This tournament allows the kids to really experience what it means to work together, to support each other, and to have fun doing it.”
After the matches, players and their families gather for a post-game celebration. “We always make it a point to have fun after the games,” Bui said. “Pizza, snacks, music—it’s all about bringing the community together.”
Accessibility and Inclusivity at the Heart of the Program
The organization’s core mission is to make rugby accessible to children from all walks of life.
“Sports can be expensive, but rugby isn’t. All you need is a ball and some space,” Bui said. With minimal equipment required and a low registration fee, the program also offers scholarships to those in need, ensuring no child is turned away. The organization even provides cleats to kids who may not have them.
The tournament introduces kids to rugby, some of whom may not excel in traditional sports.
“We’ve seen kids who struggle in other sports find their place in rugby,” Bui explained. “There’s a position for everyone, no matter your size or speed. It’s a game that makes kids feel like they belong.”
“The Flag Rugby Tournament is just the beginning for some of these kids,” Bui said. “We want them to see that this can lead to something bigger—a chance to play in college, travel, and even represent their country.”
Building Confidence and Character
For Bui, the tournament is more than just a sporting event—it’s a platform to help kids grow. She recalled the impact rugby had on one young player.
“He was shy and getting bullied at school,” she said, “but after learning rugby, he stood up to those bullies. His mom called me, crying, because he finally found his confidence. But that’s what rugby can give kids—the confidence to stand tall, no matter what.
“This event is about so much more than rugby—it’s about community, support, and giving kids a space where they can thrive.”
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