GLENDALE, CO – As part of an ongoing effort to reduce barriers to participation, the USA Rugby Board of Directors has unanimously approved a new, temporary membership registration category. Similar to one-day license programs offered by other National Governing Bodies, the new USA Rugby Temporary Membership provides players with a lower-cost option for sanctioned participation without compromising on protection. The temporary membership will be priced at $10 for players who provided proof of primary medical insurance and $15 for those who do not. Membership will be active for a specified 72-hour period and will provide players will full liability and secondary medical insurance coverage during that time.
USA Rugby CEO Ross Young said: “This is an exciting addition to the USA Rugby membership structure and will provide new opportunities as we head into the summer. The Board, Community Councils, and community stakeholders are dedicated to the idea of making it easier to play rugby safely. This program is a testament to that.”
With match play resuming after the COVID-19 hiatus and the summer sevens season rapidly approaching, USA Rugby will work closely with clubs and event organizers to ensure a smooth and effective registration process as this program is implemented.
“It’s an option members and tournament organizers have requested for a number of years,” said General Manager of Community Rugby, Johnathan Atkeison. “Community feedback was integral to the program’s design, and it’s meant to be an easy membership solution for common scenarios we all encounter; occasions like social tournaments, recruitment events or even alumni matches.”
The Temporary Membership program creates an opportunity for USA Rugby player accident and liability benefits to extend into more events than ever. It marks the first phase of a new approach to the USA Rugby Event Sanctioning process to be rolled out later this year. Feedback and insight from community stakeholders will help guide and finalize logistics of the program rollout.
Event organizers or players who wish to submit questions or suggestions are encouraged to email membership@usa.rugby.