The high school football season is over and students are already making plans to play sports during the winter and the spring season 2007-2008. But what should they play, lacrosse, baseball or soccer? Have you ever heard about or thought of playing rugby?

High-school age rugby is on the rise and the game is played throughout the United States, culminating in a national championship tournament in late May. Rugby is the ancestor of football, and is similar to no-huddle, wishbone gridiron game with all two-way players. Forward passing is not allowed, so the ball must be advanced by hard running and intricate lateral passing. After a tackle, play continues as teams, essentially a compacted line of scrimmage try to drive each other off the ball.

Can't find a team on Long Island? The Long Island Rugby Club Youth Side is an after-school youth sports program developed and maintained by members and volunteers of the Long Island Rugby Club.

The Long Island Rugby Club Youth Side based in Glen Cove will run an open winter/spring program and field a competitive team during the school year. The goals of the program are to develop a competitive youth rugby program, through an ethic of hard work and commitment, and cultivate self-confidence in every player. The club openly invites athletes from all Nassau County towns and villages who are currently attending high school, no experience needed. Contact John Royal 395-6977 or visit www.lirugby.com for more information.