Three Shorecrest students trying out for All-American Rugby - registration open for new and returning players

Michael Doquilo of Shorecrest
Photo courtesy Seattle Vikings rugby

Registration for Seattle Vikings rugby for boys and girls ages 7 to 18 is now open with practices starting in January at Magnuson Park. Rugby offers a unique opportunity for kids in Seattle. In existence since 1987, the Vikings coaching staff includes 10+ volunteer coaches and a dedicated athletic trainer, offering both a sense of teamwork and community, as well as unique opportunities to for youth to stay fit.

The Vikings are coming off a successful year in 2013 where they played matches against local teams but also toured Ireland and Wales in April. Interested athletes from across Seattle are invited to join the program; each year nearly 1/3 of players are new to the sport.

“We really want to connect with kids in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park about the sport of rugby,” said Craig Wicks, Director of Coaching, Seattle Vikings RFC (Rugby Football Club). “We see a real opportunity for rugby to grow here as a fun sport that celebrates diversity and fair play, and brings a real sense of community to players and their families.”

Players also have the opportunity to compete at a very high level. This month four current Vikings, Matt Brennan (Shorecrest High School), Michael Doquilo (Shorecrest High School), Will Brennan (Shorecrest High School) and Finlay Bruce (Blanchet High School) will try out for the USA High School All American team with the opportunity to travel to the UK and abroad competing against some of the best youth teams in the world. In late January the Vikings will also have 6 players representing the Washington state all-star team for the Las Vegas Sevens, featuring competition from the US and abroad.

Matt and Will Brennen of Shorecrest will try out for
the USA All American Team
Photo courtesy Seattle Vikings

The Vikings have programs for boys and girls aged 7-18. Practice for the new season starts January 11, 2014 and runs until May. It is held at a first-class rugby field in Magnuson Park that was dedicated in 2009. The team competes against players from Bellevue, Bellingham, Olympia, Kent and other local cities.

Rugby is one of the fastest growing sports for youth in the US, and will be included in the Olympics in 2016. Seattle Vikings players have represented local area all-star teams as well as representing the United States in international competition. To learn more about their spring rugby season, email for more details or go to their website.