ABOUT OUR CLUB

Tars RFC is the largest rugby football club in Atlantic Canada. The club was founded in 1974 and has grown considerably throughout the years; currently fielding 4 Men’s and Women’s sides and our own Mini rugby contingent. Our 2019 registration boasted well over 100 players while our pool of alumni stretches far beyond Canadian borders, including those who are currently playing professionally and representing the country on an international level.

While all our sides have had considerable success on the pitch in recent years, our club prides itself more for our involvement fostering the sport of Rugby in Halifax and Nova Scotia. Many of our members also volunteer, coach or referee rugby at the high school, university, provincial, regional and national level. Our membership is comprised of a diverse mix of people of all ages and backgrounds from all areas of the world, much like the Tar sailors who first helped bring the game to Canada through the port of Halifax

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Senior Men

Halifax Tars RFC are a member of the Rugby Nova Scotia Union (RNS). We have had a long and proud history of fielding two Senior Men’s teams consistently for many years. We believe in the mandates and core values of RNS and strive to promote the spirit of the sport.

Our Division A side currently competes in the yearly competition for the McCurdy Cup against other clubs from Nova Scotia and PEI. ​This is the premier competition for amateur club rugby in the Maritimes. The winner of the McCurdy Cup advances to play the winner from New Brunswick for the Caledonia Cup. This competition serves as an important source for player growth and development and provides the launch point for further opportunities for selection at provincial, national and professional levels

Our Division B side currently competes in the yearly competition for the Shannon Cup against other clubs from Nova Scotia and PEI. The winner of the Shannon Cup advances to play the winner from New Brunswick for the Wheaton Cup. It provides a less competitive opportunity for players of all levels to get involved. Players have the opportunity to gain experience in the sport and to enjoy the social benefits of participation. Whether you’re new to rugby or a veteran winding down their career, this division provides the chance to play for anyone interested in becoming a member of the Tars brotherhood.

Both sides train together to ensure there is opportunity for players of all ages and experience levels to grow and enjoy the sport of rugby.

Senior Women

Halifax Tars RFC field two Senior Women’s teams in the Rugby Nova Scotia Union.

Our Tier A side currently plays in the Tier A Maritime Women’s Rugby competition against other clubs from Nova Scotia and PEI. It serves as an important source of player growth and development with many players and alumni playing at high school, collegiate, provincial and national levels.

Our Tier B side currently plays in the Tier B Maritime Women’s Rugby competition against other clubs from Nova Scotia and PEI. This side provides a developmental opportunity for players with less experience to participate at a less competitive level. No matter the age, ability or background; the Tars have a place for you.

Both sides train together and selection is variable between the two teams on a game to game basis.

We also run a Junior Girls team (14-18 yrs old) that competes in the Rugby Nova Scotia Fall 7’s series.

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Mini Rugby

The Halifax Tars Mini Rugby Program was established in 2012 by a group of current and former players who wanted to introduce the sport they love to the next generation of rugby players. Since then, the program has grown from the initial group of eight players to over 70 players in 2019, making the Tars program the largest mini rugby programs in the province.

 Over the years, our players have had the opportunity to participate in a number of events across the province, including Rookie Rugby tournaments, demonstration games at international matches and the annual Tar Day Jamboree!

In 2018 an Introduction to Contact program was added for players 12 to 15 years old to help bridge the gap between flag and contact games.

Our mini rugby program follows Rugby Canada’s Long-Term Development Model:

  • Stage 1 – Active Start (age 2 to 6);
  • Stage 2 – FUNdamentals (age 6 to 9); and,
  • Stage 3 – Learn to Train (age 9-12).

Players of any skill level and experience are encouraged to come out and try a practice!

Our coaches are all current and former players, including a few that got their start in rugby through our programs!

To stay up to date on upcoming events, check these page for updates, join our Facebook group or email us.