GENERAL FAQS

Yes! The Stags is a club for all, including those who are trans and/or non-binary. Our mixed-gender Touch team is open to everyone. For contact (Union) rugby, eligibility is governed by the RFU's Gender Participation Policy, and our Membership Officer, Ben, will happily talk you through your options in confidence. The Stags actively campaign for trans inclusion in rugby, and we are committed to making sure everyone can be part of the club. Our free First Touch bootcamp is the perfect place to start.

Yes! We don't currently have a women's Union (contact) team, but our mixed-gender Touch team is open to everyone. Our free First Touch bootcamp is the perfect place to start.

While most of our members are LGBTQ+, we are an inclusive club, which means everyone is welcome regardless of sexuality or gender identity. Allies train, play and socialise alongside LGBTQ+ members in every session.

Yes, there are changing rooms and showers available. We are an inclusive team and we tell members to wear swimming shorts or underwear in the showers to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

Our Union side plays in IGR UK South 2, and our mixed Touch team plays in IGR Southern Touch.

Members can also join our away weekend tournaments, including Thebans (Edinburgh), Hadrians Cup (Newcastle), Touch My Brum (Birmingham), Unity Cup (Maidenhead) and the Union Cup 2027 in Amsterdam, the biennial European championship of inclusive rugby.

Yes. All adult players at RFU member clubs must register themselves once a year through the RFU's Game Management System (GMS) before playing, in all formats of the game. It is free and quick, and we will walk you through it when you join.

Yes. Our captains make sure everyone who has signed up for a match or tournament gets time on the pitch. Selection balances experience and development, and there are formats for every level, so you will not be left on the sidelines.

Very welcoming, and no, you never have to drink to belong. Alongside post-training drinks in the clubhouse, we run quiz nights, karaoke, comedy nights, gaming evenings and more. Plenty of members enjoy the socials alcohol free, and there is no pressure either way. Our WhatsApp group is also where new players get to know each other, and past new members say it's where lasting friendships started.

Yes. Our Supporter membership gives you clubhouse access and three sessions a year, so you can be part of the club, come to socials and support on match days without playing regularly. It is a great option if you are curious, injured/retired, or just love the community.

Yes, absolutely. Ask them to fill in our New Members Sign Up form and we will do the rest.

We regularly share photos and videos to celebrate the club. If you would prefer not to appear, just tell our Marketing Lead or any committee member and we will respect that.

Yes. Player welfare is taken seriously. We have trained First Aiders, follow the RFU's HEADCASE concussion guidance with a formal process to manage player concussions and safe return to the pitch, and maintain a resource bank of support services, including mental health, for members to access.

Speak to our Club Secretary, Matthew, or any committee member in confidence. We have welfare resources available for members and take any concern seriously.

Yes, absolutely. We strive to make the Stags inclusive to all. If you would like to discuss your specific needs or accessibility arrangements, please get in touch with our Club Secretary, Matthew, and we will do our best to accommodate you. We want everyone to be able to take part safely.

We will let you know in the WhatsApp group (and in the club app, for members) if a session is cancelled or moved, for example in extreme weather or if the pitch is unplayable. Always check the group before travelling in doubtful conditions.

Feel free to email us at membership@thelondonstagsrfc.com or reach out on our Instagram page. Our Membership Officer is always happy to help.