OUR MISSION
"At the root of our game is the heart of our community — we, Ridge Rugby Academy, strive to grow rugby through respect, teamwork, and passion."
ABOUT US
Ridge Rugby Academy was established to create a positive impact in the lives of young athletes. We offer a variety of programs that emphasize skill development, leadership, and personal growth. Our academy serves as a platform for youth to connect, learn, and thrive through rugby.
Ridge Rugby Academy, located just 20 minutes north of Grand Rapids in Sparta, MI, was founded by a dedicated group of rugby enthusiasts, local Youth and HS, college and university coaches, and community leaders who share a passion for growing the sport and developing young athletes both on and off the field.
We are a 501c3, Non Profit organization dedicated towards providing our athletes with opportunities to compete, play and grow with the game of rugby!
FIELD LOCATION
SARA (Sparta Area Recreation Association)
377 N State St, Sparta, MI 49345
WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE US
"Rooted in unity, led by heart — we welcome all to share in the joy of rugby."
Skills That Stick
High-energy, repeat-based drills and small-sided games help players learn faster, build confidence, and retain key techniques.
Safety Comes First
Non-contact play, age-appropriate equipment, and a supportive, inclusive environment ensure every athlete feels secure and encouraged.
Coaches Who Care
Certified, trained instructors are dedicated to motivating, teaching, and inspiring young athletes every step of the way.
RUGBY PROGRAMS
Whether your child is just starting out in rugby or aiming to sharpen their skills, Ridge Rugby Academy focuses on building a strong foundation first —mastering passing, catching, and flag-pulling— before introducing positioning, strategy, and game confidence.
Each coach-led session blends fun drills, small-group play, and encouraging feedback so players grow their skills while enjoying every moment.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
PreK - 4th Grade
Introduction to rugby, learning rules, skills, and general gameplay.
MIDDLE SCHOOL 5th - 8th GRADE
Juniors (5th/ 6th Grade)
Introductory contact rugby, emphasizing foundational techniques.
Seniors (7th/ 8th Grade)
Competitive contact rugby, preparing athletes for high school-level play.
Rookie Rugby
The Ridge Rugby Academy fields competitive boys’ and girls’ high school teams are led by experienced coaches who are current and former senior players. All coaches are USA Rugby Level certified, current Greater Grand Rapids Aquinas College & Davenport University Coaches and trained in Social & Emotional Learning (SEL), ensuring athletes develop both on the field and beyond.
HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TEAM & BOYS TEAM
(9th -12th Grade)
Contact Rugby with Advanced Skill Development
Designed for all HS players, this program focuses on tackling, rucking, game strategy, and elevating overall performance in a competitive environment.
Competitive Play with Purpose
Athletes gain game experience while building leadership, discipline, and strong teamwork skills on and off the field.
High School Rugby
Our Partner
Rugby Roots, LLC
Rugby Skills Kids Learn
Passing & Catching
Proper technique, accuracy, and timing
Flag-Pulling & Defense
Positioning, reaction time, and non-contact tackling alternatives
Game Understanding
Field awareness, strategy,
spacing, and transitions
Teamwork & Leadership
Communication, respect,
resilience, and collaboration
Fitness for Rugby
Agility, balance, coordination,
speed, and safe warm-ups
RUGBY CAMP
Our curriculum is designed to build confident, well-rounded rugby players through a progressive, age-appropriate approach.
Discover Rugby
Youth & Middle School Camps
FUNDAMENTALS FIRST
Athletes develop core skills such as passing, catching, movement, and game awareness as the foundation for success.
GAME-BASED LEARNING
Small-sided games and scenario drills help players understand strategy, spacing, and decision-making in real time.
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
Emphasis on teamwork, leadership, resilience, and sportsmanship both on and off the field.
FUN & ENGAGEMENT
Every session is designed to be active, encouraging, and enjoyable so players stay motivated and excited to learn.
WHAT TO BRING
Bring a water bottle, wear athletic shoes, and come dressed in comfortable, active clothing suitable for running and outdoor play.
Explore Rugby
High School Girls & Boys Camps
All the benefits from the Youth & Middle School Camps
PLUS...
SKILL PROGRESSION
Players advance from basic techniques to more complex skills, including support play, defensive positioning, and game tactics.
SAFE INTRODUCTION TO CONTACT
Proper technique and confidence are built gradually, with a strong focus on safety and control.
MEET OUR AMAZING TEAM
Carrie Cowdrey
President & Treasurer
of Ridge Rugby
Director of Ridge Rugby
Community Growth and Development
Jeff Cowdrey
Secretary of Ridge Rugby
Director of Coaching & Curriculum
(Youth, MS & HS Programs)
Assistant Head Coach
Girls High School Rugby
Assistant Youth &
Middle School Coach
Assistant Coach
Davenport University Women’s Rugby
Dani Harris
Director of HS Rugby
Community Growth & Development Programs
Head Coach
• Girls High School Rugby
• Aquinas College Women’s Rugby
Assistant Youth &
Middle School Coach
Gregory Peak
Director of Public Affairs & Communications
Head Coach
• Youth and Middle School Community Growth & Development Programs
Assistant HS Coach
• Boy's High School Rugby
GIVE THE GIFT OF RUGBY
Donations
Sponsor a Player
Please Send Checks to:
PO Box 83
Sparta, MI 49345
Attn: Ridge Rugby Academy