Women's Rugby
Established in 1976, the University of Arkansas Women's Rugby Club combines a long-standing Razorback rugby tradition with a competitive, welcoming environment for student-athletes.
Razorback Rugby Since 1976
The Women's Rugby Club is one of the oldest club sports at the University of Arkansas, dating back to 1976.
The club competes in National Collegiate Rugby Division 2 in both 15s and 7s and faces women's programs throughout Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas.
Today, the University of Arkansas Women's Rugby Club continues to build a competitive program centered on player development, team culture, and a welcoming environment for both experienced and first-time rugby players.
The team qualified for National 7s during the Spring 2026 season.
University of Arkansas Women's Rugby Club History
The University of Arkansas Women's Rugby Club began in late 1976 when students Sarah Douglas, Margret Baus, Beth Borne, and Cathy Rankin organized the first team. Many of the early players lived on the fourth floor of Pomfret Hall, where Borne served as a resident assistant.
After seeing the men's club play, the group began learning the sport with help from Arkansas Men's Rugby players Fred O'Laughlin and Phil Brazelle. Their first match was played against John Brown University on a snowy pitch.
The program has been supported by generations of players, alumni, and coaches. Susan Parrott helped reinvigorate the team in 1984, while Karen Monson later coached from 1999 through 2008. Parrott returned as Head Coach from 2012 through 2014 before alumni helped guide the club in subsequent seasons.
In 2021, Jason Ayers became Head Coach as the club rebuilt following a period of inactivity. The program now continues with new players, a strong team atmosphere, and a competitive culture.
Coaching Staff
Jason Ayers
Coach Ayers began playing rugby in 1988 and has competed with teams in Atlanta, Baltimore, Orlando, Chicago, and Fayetteville, as well as on rugby tours in the United States and internationally. While playing for Orlando RFC, he competed at the National 7s Club Rugby Championships four consecutive years from 1996 through 2000, including a fourth-place national finish in 1999. After moving to Fayetteville in 2011, he became deeply involved in Northwest Arkansas rugby through coaching, youth clinics, high school rugby, and refereeing. He became Head Coach of the University of Arkansas Women's Rugby Club in 2021.
Join the Team
Interested in playing rugby at the University of Arkansas? Prospective high school students, incoming freshmen, college transfers, and current University of Arkansas students are encouraged to submit the recruitment form below.
Why Choose the U of A?
The University of Arkansas offers more than 200 degree programs and opportunities for undergraduate research, collaboration, and academic development across a wide range of disciplines.
Located in Fayetteville, the university is part of the broader Northwest Arkansas region, giving students access to campus life as well as communities and activities throughout the area.
Financial Aid
The University of Arkansas offers scholarships, grants, and other financial-aid opportunities based on academics, military service, community involvement, residency, degree program, and individual circumstances.
Non-Resident Tuition Award
The New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award may reduce the difference between out-of-state and in-state tuition for eligible degree-seeking students. Eligibility and award levels depend on residency and academic qualifications.
International Tuition Advantage
Certain international students may qualify for tuition reductions through University of Arkansas international tuition programs. Eligibility varies by country and academic qualifications.