Rugby in Sefton: Complete Guide to Local Clubs, Training & Equipment
Looking for rugby in Sefton? Whether you’re searching for clubs, youth training programs, women’s teams, or equipment suppliers, this comprehensive guide covers everything rugby-related across Sefton borough including Southport, Formby, Crosby, Bootle, and surrounding areas.
Rugby Clubs in Sefton and Surrounding Areas
Southport RFC, located on Waterloo Road, is one of Sefton’s premier rugby union establishments. With excellent facilities including multiple pitches and a modern clubhouse, they offer comprehensive rugby programs from mini rugby through to senior level. Their main pitch regularly hosts Lancashire county matches, underlining the quality of their facilities.
In Waterloo, Waterloo FC (formerly Waterloo Rugby Club) provides another excellent rugby union option. Based at The Memorial Ground on St Anthony’s Road, this historic club founded in 1882 has a rich rugby heritage and offers teams across all age groups.
Formby RUFC, based at Hawthorne Road, delivers quality rugby in the northern part of Sefton with teams competing across various age groups and divisions. Their community-focused approach makes them ideal for players of all abilities.
For those interested in rugby league, Waterloo Storm ARLFC in Crosby offers competitive rugby league with strong youth development pathways, while Orrell St James in nearby West Lancashire provides another quality rugby league option.
Rugby for Children and Youth in Sefton
Sefton offers exceptional youth rugby opportunities:
Southport RFC’s mini and junior sections welcome children from age 6 upwards, with structured development pathways following RFU guidelines. Their Sunday morning sessions are particularly popular, with age-specific coaching.
For younger children, Waterloo FC runs engaging rugby tots sessions for 3-5 year olds, introducing fundamental movement skills through rugby-themed games and activities at their Blundellsands base.
The Sefton Rugby Development Group, in partnership with local clubs, delivers tag rugby programs in primary schools throughout the borough, introducing children aged 5-11 to non-contact rugby.
During school holidays, rugby camps take place at venues including Southport RFC, Waterloo FC, and Crosby Leisure Centre, offering structured activities for children aged 6-14, with specialized sessions for 5-6 year olds focusing on basic skills.
Women’s and Girls’ Rugby in Sefton
Women’s rugby continues to grow across Sefton:
Southport RFC Women provides competitive women’s rugby with teams competing in regional competitions. Their dedicated coaching staff welcome players of all experience levels, including complete beginners.
For girls looking to start playing rugby, Waterloo FC has established successful girls’ sections, with training sessions specifically designed for female players aged 11-18.
The RFU Women and Girls Program operates across Sefton, with taster sessions at Litherland Sports Park and other venues, creating supportive environments for those taking their first steps in rugby.
Rugby Training and Coaching in Sefton
Beyond club training, additional coaching options exist across Sefton:
Private one-to-one rugby coaching is available through several qualified coaches based in the region, many with connections to professional clubs in the North West.
Walking Rugby sessions take place at Dunes Splash World in Southport and Netherton Activity Centre, providing a less physically demanding version of the game ideal for older players or those returning from injury.
Touch rugby leagues operate during summer months at venues including Crosby Beach (famous for Antony Gormley’s ‘Another Place’ sculptures) and Victoria Park in Southport, offering non-contact rugby opportunities for all abilities.
Rugby Equipment and Shops in Sefton
For rugby gear and equipment in Sefton:
Sports Direct at Central 12 Shopping Park in Southport stocks a range of rugby boots, protective gear, and training equipment from leading brands.
JD Sports at The Strand Shopping Centre in Bootle offers a selection of rugby training wear and boots.
Many local clubs operate their own club shops with essential training gear and official merchandise available to members and non-members alike.
For specialized rugby equipment, Liverpool Rugby Store in nearby Liverpool city center provides expert advice and premium rugby merchandise.
Rugby Pitches and Facilities in Sefton
Sefton boasts several quality rugby facilities:
Southport RFC’s Waterloo Road grounds feature multiple high-quality pitches including their main field which is among the best maintained in the region.
The Memorial Ground in Waterloo not only serves as Waterloo FC’s home but also hosts occasional representative matches.
Litherland Sports Park includes playing fields sometimes used for junior rugby tournaments and casual games, with good quality surfaces.
Crosby Leisure Centre sports fields provide additional spaces for rugby training and matches, particularly popular with youth teams.
Getting to Rugby in Sefton
Access to rugby venues is straightforward with reliable public transport and taxi services:
Local taxi companies including Village Taxis in Formby, Southport Station Taxis, and Delta Taxis provide reliable transport to all major rugby facilities in the Sefton area.
Most rugby venues are well-served by Merseyrail services, with Southport RFC just a short walk from Hillside station, while Waterloo FC is easily accessible from Blundellsands and Crosby station.
Arriva and Stagecoach bus services connect all major towns in Sefton, making rugby facilities accessible via public transport.
Rugby Events and Culture in Sefton
Rugby enjoys a strong presence in Sefton alongside the borough’s other sporting and cultural activities:
The annual Southport Rugby Festival attracts teams from across the North West, offering competitive rugby in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Many local rugby clubs maintain close relationships with Sale Sharks, the region’s Premiership Rugby team, with group trips to the AJ Bell Stadium and occasional player appearances at Sefton clubs.
Whether you’re a seasoned player looking for competitive rugby, a parent seeking youth programs, or someone interested in trying the sport for the first time, Sefton’s diverse rugby landscape offers something for everyone. From the seaside setting of Southport RFC to the historic Memorial Ground in Waterloo, rugby continues to thrive throughout this diverse borough on Merseyside.