Springfield, Missouri, is about to step onto the national rugby stage in a big way. From May 2 to May 4, 2025, we will host the prestigious USA Club Rugby Northern Super Regionals at the world-class Allison Sports Town (AST). This event will bring together the top men’s and women’s club sides from Divisions 1, 2, and 3 across the Midwest, Rocky Mountain, and Mid-America Rugby Unions.
This is more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of the sport, the city, and the growing rugby culture in Springfield. For Benjamin Thomas, President and Head Coach of Springfield Rugby Club, this event is a culmination of years of hard work and a testament to Springfield’s thriving rugby scene.
“This is a hallmark event! The top rugby teams between the coasts will be in Springfield, playing at a world-class facility,” Thomas said. “It’s our chance to show our community and the rest of the Midwest and Rocky Mountains that rugby belongs here.”
A Top-Tier Facility: Allison Sports Town
When it comes to hosting an event of this magnitude, the venue plays a crucial role, and Allison Sports Town is up to the task. With its cutting-edge facilities, AST is not only a fantastic place for athletes to compete but also a hub for fans and families to gather and celebrate the sport.
Chris Martin, General Manager of Allison Sports Town, expressed his excitement about hosting the tournament, “Our facility has a ‘wow’ factor. We’re not just providing fields; we’re creating a full experience with our Fan Zone, Beer Garden, and top-tier amenities. Athletes and fans can make it a full weekend without leaving the venue.”
One of the standout features of AST is its proximity to Springfield’s airport, making it easily accessible for teams traveling from across the country. “With direct flights from cities like Chicago and Denver, teams can get here easily, and once they arrive, they’ll have everything they need right here at the facility,” Martin added.
But AST isn’t just about convenience; it’s about creating a memorable experience for everyone involved. The Fan Zone will feature bounce houses, yard games, and interactive activities for kids, while adults can enjoy the Beer Garden and relax between matches.
“This venue is a rugby dream,” said Sean Cox, President of the Mid-America Rugby Union. “Many of us who have played rugby for decades know what it’s like to be the outcasts, playing on the worst fields. With this venue, we’ll be competing on the best facilities around.
A Win for Springfield
Hosting the Northern Super Regionals is a significant milestone for Springfield, not just for rugby but for the city as a whole. Stan Adams, Director of Sports Business Development at the Springfield Sports Commission, sees the event as a tremendous opportunity for both economic and cultural growth.
“This is a tremendous win for the Springfield community,” Adams said. “We estimate the Rugby Super Regionals will bring around $678,000 of economic impact to the Springfield area. Culturally, we hope this sparks more interest in the sport, inspiring kids, and adults to participate for years to come.”
Springfield’s unique blend of affordability, entertainment, and culinary diversity makes it an ideal host city. “Springfield offers what every sports team loves about our area: entertainment, affordability, and ample amounts of diverse restaurants to fit anyone’s palate,” Adams added. “It’s the perfect mix for teams and fans looking for a memorable weekend.”
Growing the Game
The Northern Super Regionals represent a critical step in the growth of rugby across the Midwest and beyond. Cox compared the tournament to a pivotal stage in college basketball, saying:“This is the equivalent of the Sweet 16 and Elite 8 in one weekend. The winners here go on to the National Championships. Showcasing this level of rugby helps grow interest and, more importantly, inspires future players.”
Cox also highlighted the tournament’s role in building a stronger rugby culture:“When players, supporters, families, and fans are treated like they’re appreciated and respected, it elevates everyone. This only helps to grow the game.”
For Springfield Rugby Club, the tournament is a golden opportunity to inspire the next generation of players. Thomas emphasized the importance of visibility:“Nothing inspires a prospective athlete like seeing the best take the field. This tournament raises the profile of rugby in Springfield and gives us the visibility and credibility we need to grow youth rugby programs.”
Reconnecting with Alumni
One of the unique aspects of this event is its ability to bring the Springfield Rugby community together, both past and present. Thomas sees the tournament as a chance to reconnect with alumni and celebrate the club’s history.
“This is the best reason for our alumni to come back, see familiar faces, and watch some of the best rugby in the nation,” Thomas said.
The social side of rugby will also be on full display during the event, with Springfield Rugby Club infusing its unique spirit into the tournament. “We’re committed to making this a rugby event through and through,” Thomas added. “From sharing insider insights for on-field details, to creating a vibrant social scene, we’re ensuring every detail reflects Springfield Rugby’s spirit.”
A Weekend to Remember
The Northern Super Regionals promise to be a weekend filled with intense competition, community engagement, and plenty of fun. Martin is particularly excited about the family-friendly atmosphere:
“We’re creating an environment where fans can enjoy the sport and make lasting memories. Whether its kids playing in the bounce houses or adults relaxing in the Beer Garden, the experience will be top-notch.”
Stan Adams echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of engaging the local community:“We’ll work with all local media outlets leading up to the event and collaborate with Allison Sports Town and Springfield Rugby Club on ways to engage with as many people in our community as possible.”
A Bright Future
As Springfield Rugby Club continues to push for youth and high school rugby development, events like the Northern Super Regionals are instrumental in building momentum. Thomas is optimistic about the future:“This tournament is a rare chance to show families and athletes that Springfield has a thriving rugby community. The partnerships and visibility it will provide are key to our future aspirations.”
Cox also sees this event as a stepping stone for even greater opportunities:“The Northern Super Regionals set the stage for us to bring national USA Rugby events to Springfield. This is just the beginning.”
A Call to Action
Whether you’re a seasoned rugby fan or a newcomer to the sport, this is an event you won’t want to miss. As Thomas put it:“If you enjoy watching sports, competition, and passion, this is a no-brainer. For those new to rugby, it’s your chance to get hooked.”
Springfield, this is your moment to rally behind a sport and event that will bring national attention to our city. The 2025 USA Club Rugby Northern Super Regionals is more than a tournament; it’s a celebration of community, competition, and the growing love for rugby in the Ozarks. Bring your friends, bring your family, and prepare to be inspired by the best rugby this side of the Rockies.
Mark your calendars for the first weekend in May. The countdown to rugby’s biggest weekend in Springfield has begun!