The Rainier Lady Highlanders Youth Rugby team in Auburn is looking for girls in high school and middle school who want to try a new sport — and get a different type of exercise this fall.

Andrew Ramsay played rugby while growing up in Scotland, even playing around the world in Australia and New Zealand.

He met his wife in 1990, and rugby became a family affair for the Ramsays. Along with Andrew and Sheri, their two kids also are involved with the game. Their son Calum was a part of the first Rainier Highlanders back in 2008, and now coaches. Their daughter Shona is an athletic trainer and helps out when the schedule allows.

For pro rugby here in Washington, we have the Seattle Seawolves. The sport itself is relatively unknown, but players build a special bond with each other.

“Off the field, home teams are expected to provide a meal and drinks for the opposing team and coaches and their own folks after games and get together and celebrate the fellowship of the game. We do this at our field and during that meal, we present player of the day awards to players on the opposite side, and the captains and coaches usually provide a short speech,” Ramsay said.

It is a sport that doesn’t judge either. Players of all body types and skillsets are welcome to play.

“Rugby has some unique aspects, including there is a position on a team for all body types and sizes and it’s not limited to bigger body frames. Everyone has the ability to carry or kick the ball and best of all score a try (touchdown in football),” Ramsay said.

The Rainier Lady Highlanders are looking for girls who are looking for a positive, active and new atmosphere.

“Girls will have an opportunity to participate in a contact team sport that has no cuts and minimal pressure or stress as a rookie, as almost everyone has never played before or has much of an understanding of rugby. So players are all learning together and can advance their skills at their own pace. Many girls that come are ones who have fallen out of love with other sports they have done in their younger years, or in some cases are not able to make high school teams where the competition for roster places is high…Most of all it’s a fun sport with plenty of opportunities to test yourself mentally and physically,” said Ramsay.

The season runs from September to October. Cost is $100 for high school age players and $80 for middle school players. Practices are once a week at a park in Auburn that is yet to be confirmed.

Contact info@rainerrugby.org if you are interested or visit Rainier Highlanders Youth Rugby Club on Facebook.

Rainier Lady Highlanders Middle School Team. Photo provided by Andrew Ramsay