Letters to the editor
Women’s rugby team deserves praise
(Regarding “Rugby beginning to thrive in Las Vegas Valley,” Jan. 31), first of all, I love this sport and put an incredible amount of volunteer time in promoting and encouraging (it) , so I appreciate the fact (reporter Lisa Carter) took the time to write this piece. For rugby to get any exposure in the media locally is a true step forward in making this game the best it can be.
I have been the head coach for the Las Vegas Women’s Rugby Club (the Slots) for the past three seasons. The team is made up of women from all over the Las Vegas Valley . The beauty of rugby is that it encourages all people to participate and, at the same time, builds on the tradition of competitive physical athleticism as well as sportsmanship — an attribute that is rarely shared in American team sports.
The Slots play a high level of Division II rugby in the Southern California Rugby Football Union, and after an undefeated season last year — only to lose 10-7 in the championship match — the Slots are determined to go all the way to the n ational s this year. We encourage new players to join the team and search out sponsorships to help offset the costs of travel, mostly. The team dues are currently only $60 per year. To travel on a weekend to Southern California with 20-plus players is what is expected, and all will play in a game, no matter how skilled or experienced.
It is great to talk about men’s rugby in Las Vegas, and youth development is certainly the foundation for success in this sport, but to neglect the other gender is certainly a bias that cannot be ignored. The Slots’ success in the past two years speaks for itself and will only continue with support by the community — along with the men.
Phil Klevorick
Coach, Las Vegas Women’s
Rugby Club (Slots)
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