March Madness in Wayne, Nebraska

The March Madness Rugby Tournament was held in Wayne, Nebraska as it has for a few years now at the end of March. It is hosted annually by the Wayne State Rugby Football Club and is advertised as one of the larger rugby tournaments in the Midwest (second to Ruggerfest in St. Louis).

There were many teams in attendance this year that I had never played or even heard of which was slightly intimidating especially as OU was one of the most Southern women’s teams in attendance. After our three matches on Saturday against Notre Dame, the University of Minnesota at Duluth, and Minnesota State University at Mankato we were back at the hotel by 2 PM to rest and eat before the social. We did play an early match on Sunday as well against Wayne State. Lots of rugby was to be had that weekend!

The toga party, as the social is themed every year, was phenominal. Instead of having a DJ play dance music, there was an 80s style hair-band that was surprisingly awesome. The security was thorough and respectful as well, making sure to maintain a safe environment for all the ruggers. The city of Wayne, Nebraska seemed overwhelmingly welcoming of the hundreds of ruggers who flooded their quaint little town. Signs at restaurants, banks, and hotels held warm wishes and “good luck”s for all the teams in attendance.

It was very refreshing to also have everyone in town ask who you played that day and how you did. Normally, we often have to explain why we’re battered in the local grocery store and scrounging around for a Lunchable but in Wayne, it was different. An elderly lady stopped four of us in the grocery store, asked who we played for, how our games went, wished us luck and told us to be careful.

The welcoming, driven and excited atmosphere has made March Madness a tournament that we intend on playing for years to come. For those who didn’t attend, next year is always an opportunity to try something new. The competition was phenominal and well composed which made our losses seem less depressing. For any young, or even experienced team, March Madness has numerous brackets to maintain your usual standard of play. Not going to March Madness may be quite a problem because we know we’d like to see you there.