The sound of 16 bodies colliding in a scrum after the call of “Engage” is one that only those who share a love for the game can truly appreciate. The sound, once heard by a player, instantly becomes a part of who they are. This is a sound that connects a player to their teammates, the opposing side, and all others who have worn that jersey before them. This sound, among the many others associated with the sport, are what drives the women of the Wentworth Women’s Rugby Club to strap on their boots and put in their mouth guards every season.

In 2003, three women loved the sound, and suited up to join a team of men to learn to tackle, ruck, and maul, thus founding the Wentworth Women’s Rugby Club. Since these women first laced their boots, the team has grown to boast a roster of over 40 women from all six Colleges of the Fenway (COF). Keith Cattanach, a Wentworth Institute of Technology (WIT) alumnus and former President of the WIT Men’s Rugby Club, has coached since its inception. Wentworth Women’s Rugby has since become a force to be reckoned with, taking a division title in the fall of 2004 and fall of 2009, placing second in the Beast of the East Tournament in the spring of 2009 and fourth in 2010. Over the years, the team has evolved, with each season bringing in new, talented players to fill the coveted 15 positions on the pitch.

This season, the WIT Women’s Rugby Club is training hard, hoping to take first place at the Beast of the East Tournament in April, the super bowl of college rugby tournaments. Because the team is run and organized solely by its members, bake sales virtually pay for everything that the team needs, from new balls to vans rentals.

In rugby, no one person can shine; all 15 players are needed to be successful. Not only does rugby teach women to tackle and take a hit, it also teaches camaraderie and sportsmanship. Rookie Jillian Ruddock, a junior at Simmons College says, “You can’t just give up on the field, because your teammates need you. No matter what, they’re depending on you to be there for support. They make you want to play better.” Ruddock’s mentality is consistent among WIT Ruggers. At the end of the game, knowing that everyone left all they have on the pitch, feeling the togetherness of a close team…that’s more important than winning.

It’s the crash of bodies that becomes a love. A love of the game. A love of teammates. A love of getting knocked down and coming back for more. Some say you have to be crazy to play rugby. Others say that it’s just a love of hearing that sound.