Newberg HS is at the top of the Rugby Oregon Varsity league after sweeping their round-robin games this against Canby and Lincoln past weekend.

Rugby Oregon has 11 teams in their varsity league, and so every week, to avoid a team being idle, three teams play i a round robin of shortened games. Those games count for half points in the standings. That’s how Newberg, at 7-0, is tied in points with Union, who is 10-1. Union has played more round-robin games than Newberg. 

“The round robins are good for the kids but it is a little strange,” said Coach Rick Rogers. “We’ve been able to keep our momentum going this year because the kids play as a team. We have a good mix of athletes - kids who play cover and some play football, and some are in drama and never played much sports before.”

Rugby was voted in as an official club sport for both boys and girls in Newberg HS this past February, and the result has been a good vibe on campus and a solid relationship with the school football coach.

“We get a lot of support,” said Rogers. “They’ve really been a help.”

Leading the way for Newberg is No. 8 Brad Tucker, who combines with Avery Nielsen in a potent back row. Center Ian Halstead has been a handful. 

“They all work well together,” said Rogers.

Most would like to see Newberg and Union clash in a full-length game, but that’s probably not going to happen before the playoffs. The two do meet up Friday in a round-robin that includes Battle Ground. After that, Newberg ends their regular season against the Portland Pumas, who are still striving for a place in the semis, while Union faces Reynolds, also trying to get into the top four.

Right now, it’s Newberg and Union at the top, with Oregon City (7-3, 18pts), Pumas (5-3,17), Reynolds (5-3, 16), Lincoln (4-3, 15), and Prarie (4-4, 14) close behind.

Oregon City plays Lincoln and Prairie, in the next two weekends, and wins there will secure them a semifinal place, and eliminate Lincoln and Prairie. Reynolds has Prairie this weekend, and the Pumas face Summit HS. It’s going to come down to the wire for 4th place.

Playoffs start May 23.