Rugby
From Alhannah
Doha Rugby Football Club (DRFC), established in 1974, is a local Rugby club for both men and women, located right next to Al Samriya compound, which is also right next to Doha College, the American School of Doha, and Al Sadd Sports Club. It offers a host of opportunities for rugby players and spectators alike. You can become a member of the club on several different levels, including but not limited to:
- Full (players must have full membership) for QR850 for one calendar year
- Student Discount (Under 21's only)
- Family
- Social
Descriptions of membership perks are easily available on the website listed in the external links below.
PLAYING FOR THE CLUB
Both men's and women's teams play on a regional level within the Arabian Gulf on a regular basis. Arabian Gulf League teams include clubs from Sharjah, Dubai, Muscat, Kuwait, Bahrain, and others. Women practice on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7, and men practice right after the women on the same days. There's a men's veterans team for the geezers, and a women's rec team for those not wanting to get bashed around every once in a while. Both teams are open to anyone and everyone willing to come out and play hard. The men's team seems to be a bit more geared towards those who have prior experience. The women's team is a bit more relaxed (although just as competitive in competition) - the team is regularly made up of a large portion of players who've picked up rugby for the first time here in Doha. Fitness levels vary significantly among the players as well, and many just come out to get a little bit of exercise.
There are also mini's/youth teams that practice for those of the younger crowd who are intersted.
In addition, there's a co-ed touch league on Sunday nights. Games start at 7:35 sharp and teams are assigned at the beginning of the fall term. More information is on the website.
All contact information is listed on the website
THE SOCIAL SCENE
If you're not into playing, but love the sport, there are plenty of ways to find an outlet for that with DRFC. There's a cozy bar at the clubhouse which has some of the best beer in town on tap (your usual Guinness, Harp, Murphy's, Killian's, etc.) and always has a sporting game, most often rugby, playing on the several large-screen tv's. It's a bit intimidating at first, but the club is always happy to see new faces. There are plenty of other regular social functions as well, including quiz nights, St. Patty's Day celebrations, and for big international matches the club will whip out its huge outdoor projector for stadium-seating viewing, always proving to be a blast. DRFC also plays host to regional and international tournaments, which are always a great way to see the game live. Volunteers are always appreciated! There's even a shop in the clubhouse with team paraphernalia as well as player gear (everything from mouthguards to beer bottle insulators) and the prices are extremely reasonable. Be aware of the 20QR entrance fee for non-members, payable at the entrance of the club.
- External Links
