Team History
Over a decade ago, several members of a local rugby club, the Morris Lions, sat down to formulate a plan which would introduce the sport they love to a new generation of players, their kids and those in the local community. After a bit of discussion (OK, a lot), the new “Youth Rugby” program would need to meet a long list of criteria which included:
• Available to boys and girls.
• Open to a large range of ages, and age appropriate rules.
• Be easy to learn.
• Safe.
• Fun to play!
Quickly these ideas were adopted and implemented into what is now the Morris Rugby Youth Program, a coed, non-contact, flag version of 7’s rugby for children in kindergarten through 8th grade.
Recognizing the success of the program in towns such as Denville and Parsippany, a local businessman and former Morris rugger decided it was time to open shop in Randolph. In 2003, the Randolph Rhinos were born, with an initial enrollment of 35 players. After 2 years in town, it became evident that in order to get more kids involved, the program would need to embark upon a strategy that would allow athletes from surrounding towns to participate. The Black River fields in Chester satisfied all the growing needs of the program. Immediately after moving in 2005, the participation nearly doubled. Along with the exodus from Randolph came an appropriate name change to the Black River Renegades. For the past 5 years, Black River has sustained an annual average membership of 60-85 players.
Although only a few years young, the Black River program is quite accomplished. Perhaps the most notable recognition stems from an annual flag rugby festival hosted on the Black River Fields. All the towns from the Morris program, Union, and as far away as Pennsylvania converge in Chester the last Saturday in July to play in a tournament, share their rugby experiences and enjoy the camaraderie associated with the sport. In 2009, this event made it into the Guinness Book of World Records as biggest flag/tag rugby tourney on the planet!
The Renegades have also enjoyed great continuity since 2005, seeing the same leadership and coaches returning year after year. This pays tribute to the truly rewarding experience of being involved with a sport that is low on pressure, yet fast paced and fun. As Black River continues to grow, the team always needs additional volunteers to coach, coordinate, and make the program more exciting. Sign up today and become a part of the tradition that is Black River Rugby.
top
|
