Rugby in Wigan: Complete Guide to Local Clubs, Training & Equipment
Looking for rugby in Wigan? Whether you’re searching for league or union clubs, youth training, women’s teams, or equipment shops, this comprehensive guide covers everything rugby-related in Wigan and its surrounding suburbs.
Rugby League Clubs in Wigan – A Town of Rugby Heritage
Wigan is synonymous with rugby league excellence, home to the legendary Wigan Warriors. Based at the iconic Robin Park Arena and playing home matches at the DW Stadium (shared with Wigan Athletic FC), the Warriors are among the most successful rugby league clubs in history with 22 league championships.
The Wigan St Patricks ARLFC, located on Harper Street, is an acclaimed amateur club that has produced numerous professional players, offering teams from junior to open age levels.
In nearby Orrell, Orrell St James ARLFC provides excellent community rugby league with strong youth development programs, while Wigan St Judes ARLFC in Ince-in-Makerfield offers another quality option for league enthusiasts.
Rugby Union in Wigan and Surrounding Areas
Wigan RUFC at Douglas Valley offers comprehensive rugby union opportunities with teams across multiple age groups. Their facilities include well-maintained pitches and training areas.
Orrell RUFC, once a powerhouse of English rugby union, continues to provide excellent rugby union training and matches for players in the Wigan area.
Just outside Wigan in Standish, Aspull RFC offers friendly, community-focused rugby union with strong junior sections and welcoming atmosphere for beginners.
Rugby for Children and Youth in Wigan
Wigan boasts exceptional rugby development pathways for children of all ages:
The Wigan Warriors Community Foundation runs rugby tots sessions for children aged 2-5 years, focusing on basic movement skills through fun rugby-themed activities.
For children aged 6-12, multiple clubs across Wigan offer mini rugby programs, including Wigan St Patricks, Orrell St James, and Aspull RFC.
The Warriors Academy represents one of the country’s premier rugby league development pathways, nurturing talented youngsters from across the Wigan borough.
During school holidays, various rugby camps operate throughout Wigan, with half-term activities at the Robin Park Sports Centre and summer camps at Wigan Warriors Community Stadium.
Women’s and Girls’ Rugby in Wigan
Women’s rugby continues to grow rapidly across Wigan:
The Wigan Warriors Women compete at the highest level of women’s rugby league, offering inspirational role models for female players.
Wigan RUFC has established women’s rugby union teams, welcoming beginners and experienced players alike.
For girls looking to start rugby, Warriors Community Foundation runs dedicated girls-only sessions across various age groups.
Rugby Training and Coaching in Wigan
Private coaching options abound in Wigan:
Several former Warriors players offer one-to-one rugby coaching sessions, focusing on position-specific skills and overall development.
The Wigan Warriors Performance Centre at Robin Park provides high-quality training facilities and specialist coaching programs.
For adults seeking less intensive options, walking rugby sessions take place at Wigan Leisure Centre, offering a more accessible version of the game.
Touch rugby leagues operate during summer months at Standish High School playing fields and Robin Park, providing non-contact alternatives.
Rugby Equipment and Shops in Wigan
For rugby gear and equipment in Wigan:
The Warriors Store at Robin Park offers official merchandise plus a range of rugby boots, training wear, and equipment.
Sports Direct at the Grand Arcade Shopping Centre stocks rugby boots, protective gear, and training accessories.
DW Sports at Robin Park Retail Park provides a selection of rugby apparel and equipment.
For specialized boot fitting, Rugby Store Wigan on Market Street offers expert advice and premium footwear options.
Rugby Pitches and Facilities in Wigan
Beyond club facilities, Wigan offers several public and bookable rugby spaces:
Robin Park Arena features quality pitches used for community rugby events.
Haigh Woodland Park provides open spaces suitable for casual rugby practice.
Ashton Leisure Centre in Ashton-in-Makerfield offers bookable pitches for training and matches.
Standish Community Centre grounds host regular junior rugby fixtures and training sessions.
Getting to Rugby in Wigan – Transport Options
Several taxi companies serve rugby venues across Wigan, with Crusader Taxis and Wigan Taxis offering reliable service to the DW Stadium on match days.
The DW Stadium is well-served by bus routes from Wigan Bus Station, while Robin Park has ample parking for those traveling by car.
Whether you’re looking to play competitively, introduce your children to the sport, or simply find quality rugby equipment, Wigan’s rich rugby heritage ensures excellent provision across both league and union codes. With world-class professional teams alongside thriving grassroots clubs, Wigan truly deserves its reputation as one of the UK’s premier rugby towns.