Rugby in Sunderland: Complete Guide to Local Clubs, Training & Equipment
Looking for rugby in Sunderland? Whether you’re searching for clubs, youth training programs, women’s teams, or equipment suppliers, this comprehensive guide covers everything rugby-related across Sunderland and its surrounding areas including Washington, Houghton-le-Spring, and Seaham.
Rugby Clubs in Sunderland and Surrounding Areas
Sunderland RFC, based at Ashbrooke Sports Club, stands as the city’s premier rugby union establishment. Founded in 1873, this historic club offers rugby for all age groups with excellent facilities including their well-maintained pitch and clubhouse nestled in the leafy Ashbrooke area. Their mini and junior sections provide structured pathways from youth to senior rugby.
In Washington, Washington RFC at Albany Park offers another excellent rugby option. Their community-focused approach makes them ideal for players of all abilities, with teams competing across various age groups and divisions.
Houghton RFC, based in Houghton-le-Spring at Dairy Lane, provides quality rugby union with strong youth development programs and competitive senior teams. Their facilities include a well-maintained pitch and clubhouse with excellent training areas.
Just a short distance from Sunderland in Seaham, Seaham Rugby Club offers another option for rugby enthusiasts, with teams competing in the Durham/Northumberland leagues.
Rugby for Children and Youth in Sunderland
Sunderland offers excellent youth rugby opportunities:
Sunderland RFC’s mini section welcomes children from age 6, with a focus on fun and skill development. Their structured age-grade program follows RFU guidelines, ensuring appropriate progression through each stage of development.
For younger children, several clubs including Washington RFC run rugby tots sessions for 3-5 year olds, introducing fundamental movement skills through rugby-themed games and activities.
Sunderland Rugby Community Foundation delivers tag rugby programs in primary schools throughout Sunderland, introducing children aged 5-11 to non-contact rugby.
During school holidays, rugby camps take place at venues including Ashbrooke Sports Ground and Silksworth Sports Complex, offering structured activities for children aged 6-14.
Women’s and Girls’ Rugby in Sunderland
Women’s rugby continues to grow across Sunderland:
Sunderland Women’s RFC 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, Washington RFC has established successful girls’ sections, with training sessions specifically designed for female players aged 11-18.
The RFU Women and Girls Program operates across Sunderland, with taster sessions and development opportunities offered throughout the year, creating supportive environments for those taking their first steps in rugby.
Rugby Training and Coaching in Sunderland
Beyond club training, additional coaching options exist across Sunderland:
Private one-to-one rugby coaching is available through several qualified coaches based in the region, many affiliated with Newcastle Falcons’ development programs.
Walking Rugby sessions take place at Silksworth Community Pool, Tennis and Wellness 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 Ashbrooke Sports Ground and Raich Carter Sports Centre, offering non-contact rugby opportunities for all abilities.
Rugby Equipment and Shops in Sunderland
For rugby gear and equipment in Sunderland:
Sports Direct at The Bridges Shopping Centre stocks a range of rugby boots, protective gear, and training equipment from leading brands.
Decathlon at Sunderland Retail Park offers affordable rugby essentials including boots, balls, and training wear.
Many local clubs operate their own club shops with essential training gear and official merchandise available to members and non-members alike.
For specialized boot fitting and equipment, rugby players often visit Newcastle Falcons Club Shop at Kingston Park in nearby Newcastle, which offers premium rugby merchandise and equipment.
Rugby Pitches and Facilities in Sunderland
Sunderland boasts several quality rugby facilities:
Ashbrooke Sports Ground, home to Sunderland RFC, features an excellent rugby pitch in an attractive setting, with additional training areas available.
Silksworth Sports Complex includes playing fields sometimes used for junior rugby tournaments and casual games, with good quality surfaces.
Hetton Lyons Country Park sports fields provide additional spaces for rugby training and matches, particularly popular with youth teams.
The University of Sunderland operates rugby pitches at their sports complex, occasionally available for community use alongside university fixtures.
Getting to Rugby in Sunderland
Access to rugby venues is straightforward with reliable public transport and taxi services:
Local taxi companies including Station Taxis and Blueline Taxis provide reliable transport to all major rugby facilities in the Sunderland area.
Most rugby clubs are well-served by Nexus bus services connecting Sunderland city center with suburbs like Washington, Houghton-le-Spring, and Seaham.
For those driving to Ashbrooke Sports Ground, parking is available on site, though it can become limited on match days.
Rugby Events and Culture in Sunderland
Rugby has a rich heritage in Sunderland, existing alongside the city’s famous football culture:
The annual Ashbrooke Sevens Tournament attracts teams from across the North East, offering exciting rugby in a festival atmosphere.
Many local rugby clubs maintain close relationships with Newcastle Falcons, the region’s Premiership Rugby team, with group trips to Kingston Park fixtures and occasional player appearances at Sunderland 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, Sunderland’s diverse rugby landscape offers something for everyone. From the historic grounds of Sunderland RFC to the community-focused approach of clubs in surrounding towns like Washington and Houghton-le-Spring, the sport continues to thrive throughout the region.