How it Started
The Southern Pines Jokers originally played from 2004 to 2006 before the program went inactive. High school rugby returned to Moore County in 2010 when Rob Bortins and Gus Remington launched the Gators, which ran until 2014.
In 2017, Joe Hogan was approached about reviving the high school rugby program. With the support of Gareth Williams, the club was brought back later that year. At first, only three high school athletes joined, playing matches alongside Raleigh Rugby. By 2019, the club had established its own identity, and in 2020, youth players were officially added to the program.
The growth continued in 2021, thanks to Coach Griff’s leadership in expanding the youth side. Today, we are proud to have a 100% military-affiliated board, 65% of our coaches connected to the military, and 70% of our players from military families.
Despite being based in one of the state’s smallest populations, we’ve become one of North Carolina’s largest clubs—boasting over 300 registered players, 18 college scholarships awarded, 24 dedicated volunteers, numerous select-team athletes, and players who have even traveled internationally to compete.
Our mission is simple: to grow grassroots rugby and welcome youth from all backgrounds and abilities into the game.
