University of Florida
Why choose University of Florida?
You are coming to play rugby. You will also get one of the best public educations in the country.
Values
Core Values
Strive for greatness as an institution that brings out the best in each individual.
Collaborate on the uncharted frontiers of knowledge to seek truth and make the world a better place.
Celebrate differences in identities, thoughts, and abilities, and seek to provide equitable access to opportunity.
Embrace the freedom to inquire and express ideas without condemnation, and to show respect for the right of others to do the same.
Create a safe, welcoming community and a shared purpose that builds a sense of belonging and togetherness.
Show respect for those who came before us, responsibility for those now with us, and the commitment to leave a just and habitable world for those who come after us.
.avif)
Why Play Rugby at University of Florida?
#5 US Public University According to Forbes
UF ranked No. 5 by Forbes among all 2026 public universities for academic rigor and workforce preparation.
A Campus Being Built for You
Over $1 billion in new undergraduate housing is underway, adding 10,000 new beds.
The Fastest University Supercomputer in the Country
UF's HiPerGator is the fastest university-owned supercomputer in the United States.
Compete at the Highest Level
Gators Rugby fields nationally competitive Men's and Women's programs with a pathway to national championships.
A Community That Invests in Its Own
UF raised over $625 million in new gifts last year. Rugby has its own endowment and its own scholarships inside that.
More Than an Athlete, A Gator
Alumni from six decades still show up to matches. You are joining them, not just a roster.
FAQ
Answers to the Most Common Questions
The University of Florida pairs nationally competitive club rugby with one of the strongest public educations in the country — Forbes ranked UF the No. 5 public university in 2026 for academic rigor and workforce preparation. Gators Rugby fields men's and women's sides with a pathway to national championships, its own endowment, and its own scholarships.
Yes. Gators Rugby offers two $5,000 scholarships for incoming students, each paid as $2,500 per semester: the Florida Rugby Alumni Scholarship and the Mark Carpenter Scholarship. Both are funded through the alumni community rather than the university, and one of each is awarded for the 2027–2028 year.
The Gators men's side competes in CRAA Division 1AA within the Florida Conference and in NCR sevens. Both the men's and women's programs compete in the Florida Collegiate Conference under USA Rugby governance. The women's side are back-to-back Florida State Champions and won the 2026 CRC D1AA Shield.
Gators Rugby practices are scheduled in the evening, outside the standard class day, and the program's academic setting is a large research university with substantial support resources.
The University of Florida is ranked No. 5 among public universities by Forbes for 2026, operates HiPerGator — the fastest university-owned supercomputer in the United States — and has over $1 billion in new undergraduate housing underway, adding 10,000 beds. Athletes across every program have access to the same research and academic infrastructure.
Gators Rugby fields nationally competitive men's and women's programs with a pathway to national championships.
Gators Rugby alumni from six decades remain connected through the University of Florida Rugby Alumni Association, which runs an alumni directory, a newsletter, and annual events including Alumni Weekend and the Fall Family Festival. Many former players continue with club rugby wherever they move, and a number return to coach.
Play Rugby for the Gators
No experience required.
Scholarships available.