Rugby in Southampton: Ultimate Guide to Local Clubs, Training & Youth Development
Discover Southampton’s vibrant rugby scene, from the historic Southampton Rugby Club near the iconic St Mary’s Stadium to modern facilities across Hampshire’s largest city. Whether you’re in Bitterne, Shirley, or Woolston, find comprehensive rugby opportunities for all ages and abilities in this maritime sporting hub.
Premier Rugby Clubs in Southampton
Southampton Rugby Club
Established club based at Test Lane Sports Ground offering:
- Two full-size pitches with floodlighting
- Professional coaching structure
- Teams from U6 to senior level
- Modern clubhouse and gym facilities
Trojans RFC
Historic club at Stoneham Lane featuring:
- Three playing fields
- All-weather training surface
- Comprehensive youth section
- Women’s rugby program
Youth Rugby Development
Mini Rugby Programs
Extensive youth rugby across Southampton includes:
- Tots Rugby (Ages 2-4) at Test Lane
- Mini Rugby (Ages 5-11) development pathway
- Junior centers in Eastleigh and Totton
- School holiday rugby camps
School Partnerships
Active rugby programs at:
- King Edward VI School
- St. Mary’s College
- Bitterne Park School
- Solent University
Women’s and Girls’ Rugby
Thriving female participation includes:
- Trojans Women’s Team
- Southampton Ladies RFC
- Girls’ development squads (U13, U15, U18)
- Beginners’ touch rugby sessions
Rugby Facilities Across Southampton
Main Training Grounds
- Test Lane Sports Ground
- Stoneham Lane Complex
- Southampton Sports Centre
- Lordshill Recreation Ground
Indoor Training Venues
- Solent Sports Complex
- The Quays Swimming & Diving Complex
- Chamberlayne Leisure Centre
Rugby Equipment and Shops
Local rugby equipment retailers:
- Sports Direct – Westquay Shopping Centre
- JD Sports – Marlands Shopping Centre
- Club shops at major grounds
Rugby in Key Southampton Districts
Eastleigh
Strong rugby community with excellent training facilities.
Totton
Growing rugby scene with community pitches.
Bitterne
Regular training sessions and youth development.
Shirley
Community rugby initiatives utilizing local facilities.
Getting Started with Rugby in Southampton
Multiple entry points for new players include:
- Beginner sessions for all ages
- Touch rugby introductions
- Walking rugby for over 50s
- One-to-one coaching options
Special Programs
Unique rugby opportunities include:
- University pathway programs
- Half-term rugby camps
- Corporate team building
- Rugby fitness classes
Contact individual clubs for current training schedules and membership information. Southampton’s clubs offer free taster sessions and beginner-friendly introduction packages. The city’s maritime sporting heritage, combined with modern facilities and professional coaching, provides an excellent environment for players of all abilities to develop their skills, from complete beginners to experienced athletes.