A local initiative to establish a rugby club in Escanaba has gained momentum, drawing attention from seasoned players and newcomers alike. Founded by Kyle Johnson, Brandon Morrison, and Derek Ussher, the Escanaba Berserkers Rugby Club is actively seeking members to grow its community presence. With guidance from collegiate athletes like Brynn and Ella Santi, the group aims to introduce rugby’s fundamentals while fostering a spirit of camaraderie.

Rugby, traditionally known for its intensity and teamwork, is being adapted with safety as a priority. Initially focusing on touch rugby, the club plans to gradually incorporate full-contact elements as participants develop their skills. Beyond physical fitness, the founders emphasize the sport's potential to unite people through shared experiences and collaboration.

Introducing the Sport: A Gentle Start

The Escanaba Berserkers Rugby Club focuses on teaching the basics of rugby in a safe environment. By starting with minimal contact—such as two-hand touch—the group ensures that beginners can learn without fear of injury. This approach allows new players to grasp essential concepts such as gameplay structure, player roles, and strategic decision-making before progressing to more intense activities.

Rugby is a game of endurance and strategy, played over two 40-minute halves. Each match involves 15 players per team, supported by eight substitutes. In this initial phase, the club prioritizes understanding the rules and developing foundational skills. Participants engage in drills designed to enhance coordination, communication, and teamwork. As they advance, the group will introduce light tackling exercises, encouraging players to adopt protective gear such as mouthguards. Founders Kyle Johnson and Brandon Morrison stress the importance of learning proper techniques to ensure everyone's safety during play.

Fostering Connections Through Teamwork

Beyond athletic development, the Escanaba Berserkers Rugby Club seeks to build a supportive community. The founders envision expanding beyond a single men’s team to include high school and women’s divisions, creating opportunities for various demographics to participate. They believe rugby offers an alternative form of exercise and social interaction, appealing to those who seek adventure outside traditional gym routines.

By collaborating with experienced players like MTU sisters Brynn and Ella Santi, the club hopes to inspire confidence and enthusiasm among its members. These visits provide valuable insights into competitive play and reinforce the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. Additionally, the absence of membership fees lowers barriers to entry, making rugby accessible to anyone aged seventeen or older. The ultimate goal is not only to compete in regional tournaments but also to strengthen community bonds through collective effort and mutual respect. Through consistent practice sessions held weekly at Ludington Park, the club fosters friendships and promotes active lifestyles among residents.