Est. 1957 · Saint Louis University

SLU Rugby

Football Club

Ad maiorem Dei gloriam — For the greater glory of God

Over Six Decades of Billiken Rugby

A Tradition of Excellence
On and Off the Pitch

1957
Year Founded
67+
Years of Rugby
2,000+
Alumni Worldwide
D1A
Competitive Level
Billiken Pride

More Than a Club. A Brotherhood.

Since 1957, the SLU Rugby Football Club has embodied the Jesuit tradition of developing the whole person — mind, body, and spirit. What began as a small group of students passionate about the beautiful game has grown into one of the most respected club rugby programs in the Midwest.

We compete at the highest levels of collegiate club rugby while maintaining the values that have defined us for over six decades: discipline, humility, respect, and an unwavering commitment to one another.

  • Excellence in competition and academics
  • Brotherhood that lasts a lifetime
  • Jesuit values of service and integrity
  • Development of character through sport

A Legacy Forged in Tradition

From humble beginnings on the quad to a powerhouse of collegiate club rugby, the SLU RFC has written its story through decades of competition, camaraderie, and commitment.

1957
SLU Rugby Football Club founded by a group of students devoted to the rough-and-tumble code of rugby union. The first matches were played on the open fields of the midtown campus.
1960s
The club quickly established itself in the St. Louis rugby community, scheduling matches against local clubs and other university sides. The foundations of the Billiken rugby tradition were laid.
1970s
A period of significant growth. The club fielded multiple sides and began competing in regional tournaments. The iconic blue and white hoops became a familiar sight across the Midwest.
1980s
SLU Rugby earned recognition as a premier collegiate program. The alumni network began to take shape, providing support and mentorship that continues to this day.
1990s
The club expanded its schedule, facing increasingly competitive opposition. Player development programs were formalized, attracting talented athletes from across the region.
2000s
SLU Rugby entered the modern era with enhanced training facilities, coaching staff, and a renewed commitment to excellence. The program's reputation attracted students who might otherwise have chosen larger athletic programs.
2010s
Continued growth and competitive success. The club embraced the values of the Jesuit tradition more deeply, emphasizing community service alongside athletic achievement.
Today
The SLU RFC stands as a testament to the enduring power of rugby to build character, forge bonds, and bring glory to the University. We look forward to the next chapter.
The strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack.
— Rudyard Kipling

Building Billikens,
On and Off the Field

SLU Rugby is more than match day. Our programs develop well-rounded individuals who carry the lessons of the pitch into every aspect of their lives.

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Men's Rugby

Our flagship program competes in collegiate club rugby against teams across the Midwest and beyond. Open to all SLU students regardless of experience — we'll teach you the game.

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Academic Excellence

Billiken rugby players consistently achieve above-average GPAs. We believe that discipline on the field translates to discipline in the classroom — and the results speak for themselves.

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Community Service

In the Jesuit tradition, we serve. From youth rugby clinics to local charity events, SLU Rugby is committed to making a positive impact in the St. Louis community and beyond.

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Strength & Conditioning

Year-round training programs designed to build rugby-specific fitness, strength, and agility. Our players are athletes in the truest sense — prepared for the demands of the game.

🌟

Player Development

From freshers to veterans, our coaching staff provides individualized development plans. We nurture talent and foster the skills needed to compete at the highest collegiate levels.

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Social & Alumni

The bonds formed at SLU Rugby last a lifetime. Regular social events, alumni matches, and an active network keep Billiken ruggers connected long after graduation.

It's not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog.
— Mark Twain

Join the Pack

We'd Love to Hear From You

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Location
Saint Louis University
Midtown Campus, St. Louis, MO 63103
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Email
rugby@slu.edu
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Social
@SLURugby on Instagram & Twitter
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Practice Times
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:00 PM
Saturdays, 9:00 AM (Match Days)

Send Us a Message