Photo: Supplied.
If you think of Rugby Union as being a big, tough game exclusively for big, tough men, the Redlands Muddies could shift your thinking; they pride themselves on being a family-oriented club, dedicated to fostering a love for rugby across all ages and abilities. A central part of the Redlands sporting community since 1979, the club boasts intergenerational and gender- (and ability-) diverse teams, so everyone gets a jersey.
Mini Muddies caters for three to five year-olds; there’s a six to nine category for boys and girls, a new Colts team for under 20s, Senior Men and Senior Women teams, a thriving Girls Rugby program, and inclusive initiatives like the Modified Rugby Program for players with learning and perceptual disabilities – and of course, the Golden Oldies (35 to 75).
Michael Anderson, coach and Muddies Vice-President, says safety is taken very seriously.
“The Golden Oldies have modified rules, such as uncontested scrums and wearing red shorts if you don’t want to be tackled; the younger players have variations that include no tackling, only touch, and having the coach on the field with them.”
Being able to field so many teams and having 460 registered players indicates that the club is appealing to many people. Mike says the sense of belonging to a big family is a real drawcard.
“The Muddies exemplify a real community spirit, encouraging families and volunteers to contribute. And we’re looking forward to the Men’s World Cup in 2027, the Women’s World Cup in 2029 and the Olympics in 2032. The Muddies have offered their three fields, currently undergoing refurbishment, as a pre-tournament training camp for the Men’s World Cup, so there are some exciting events coming up!”
If you want to be part of the excitement in 2026, sign-on days are on 31 January and 1, 7, and 8 February at Judy Holt Park, Birkdale. For more information, visit redlandsrugby.com.au.
