COCC Rugby is building a legacy and growing the game in Central Oregon
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Rugby has been steadily growing in popularity across the United States, and Central Oregon Community College is no exception. The COCC Rugby Club provides students with the opportunity to engage in this dynamic and physically demanding sport while fostering teamwork, camaraderie and sportsmanship.
And this month, Head Coach Max Bennett and the Bobcats face the best in the Northwest.
"You know, I want the community to know that there's college sports in town, and you can come out and watch it. And rugby's awesome." Bennett said.
The COCC Rugby Club welcomes players of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced athletes. Whether you are new to the game or have played before, the club offers a supportive environment for learning and development.
The team competes against other colleges and clubs in the region, providing valuable game experience and a chance to test their skills on the field.
"And you know we're going to go from last year not really having a program to within seven months competing against Oregon State at the Division 1 level, you know, trying to win the conference," Bennett continued.
Coach Bennett played on the first-ever rugby team at COCC in 2012. His uncle was his coach, and when COCC's program was beginning to fade after COVID, Bennett stepped in.
"The program kind of sort of was a little bit in disarray last year. And obviously, like for me, it's kind of a legacy." Bennett said.
COCC Rugby practices focus on building endurance, strategy and technical skills. Training sessions include drills, scrimmages and fitness exercises to ensure players are well-prepared for competition. The coaching staff emphasizes the fundamentals of the game, while encouraging continuous improvement and sportsmanship.
The team has 22 athletes on the roster, and only three have previous rugby experience.
Player Charles Marthe said, "They play high school sports or, you know, like, they're athletic and they don't have something. And then they come to play with us, and it gives them a team—it gives them structure, it gives them something to do."
Manthe is in his first year playing rugby at COCC.
"It's so awesome. Like you just have like this nice awesome built-in friend group already, and like going on team trips and golf, taking van rides. And I mean, now we're playing seven, so you're there all day. It's just — it's such a fun experience."
For the players and coaches, rugby is more than just a game — it's become a passion. They are eager to see the COCC Rugby community thrive and grow for years to come.
Bennett said, "Here as a community college, I'm particularly passionate about the fact that we are a community college. This is for the community. I grew up in Central Oregon. I love this, and we want for these people to stay here locally and to be high-functioning contributors to our community."
Students interested in joining COCC Rugby can reach out to the club through the college’s athletics department or student organizations. No prior experience is necessary — just a willingness to learn and a passion for the sport.
Whether you're looking to try something new, stay in shape, or compete at a higher level, COCC Rugby offers a welcoming and energetic environment. Join today and experience the thrill of rugby firsthand!
