
Are you familiar with Rugby? It is a high contact sport, created in England and popular in Europe, Asia, the Americas and Africa. It is the fastest growing sport in the United States and is said to be like a combination of American Football and Soccer. Rugby is based on running with the ball in hand. In the most common form, a game is between two teams of 15 players using an oval-shaped ball on a rectangular field with H goalposts on each end. The game is played by male and female players of all ages worldwide. All competitors are required to run, pass and kick the ball, tackle and participate enthusiastically. After practices and games, players and spectators alike meet at the local pub to celebrate friendship and everyone’s interest in this athletic event.

There are several teams in Costa Rica. Now, a new team is starting in Uvita. Two locals Carlos Mata and Oliver Cooper are organizing the Costa Ballena Rugby Club, the Ospreys. They are recruiting players at this time, looking to start practice in March. The idea is to promote strong ties among the players and build a competitive team. They plan to join the Costa Rica Rugby Federation. The club also will support local charities and causes, such as The Lifeguards. The club is recruiting players that are determined, will learn to work and play hard, team oriented, have resilience and respect for other athletes and will dedicate themselves to training in this fascinating game. Practices begin in March. Spectators and fans are more than welcome. As soon as the team is formed, they will begin matches against other Costa Rican teams and eventually host international tournaments. Please follow our progress, meets and Tournaments in future editions of Ballena Tales.
By Annie Drake
CONTACT: FB Costa Ballena Rugby Club - Oliver Cooper omcooper@comcast.net / 6453-5513 or Carlos Mata 8387 7444