Macon Magazine

88 maconmagazine.com | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 difficult to identify at a glance. "One of the cool things about rugby," Travis said, "is that there is room on the field for people of all shapes and sizes. There's such a vast difference in the positions that there are needed roles for very different body types and athletic abilities. But no matter the role, every player has to put in the work to be good." Some of that work happens on the practice field. Twice a week, the club comes together to run plays, sharpen skills, and build cohesion. The physicality of rugby can be intense; understanding how to engage with opponents on the field is important for playing as a unit and for personal safety. Known for its lack of padding or bodily protection, the vulnerability inherent in engaging body-to-body makes all players more mindful of impact. The physical demand necessitates a team mentality and sets the tone for rugby culture. "What every player needs to have is work ethic, teamwork, and respect," Travis said. "It's not a sport for individual superstars. I've been a part of teams that have one player who is an incredible athlete, and the team is worse for catering to that. One player can't beat fifteen. Rugby relies on everybody on the field. That teamwork is incredibly important. Humility is crucial. You have to have trust, accountability, humility. All of those things that make you a good person will help make you a good rugby player." As local interest in rugby grows, Macon Love has found ways to engage the community beyond the field. Team sponsor JBA hosts after-parties (often a family-friendly event) and watch parties for international rugby games, like the recent Rugby World Cup. The club is also collaborating with Big Brothers Big Sisters to develop opportunities for youth engagement. "Our ultimate goal is to grow the club," Travis said. "Then we can offer multiple teams, including a youth team. We want opportunities for everyone to play. I genuinely think that rugby can impact whole communities. Rugby is uniquely suited to create camaraderie and a culture of respect. Rugby is more than just a sport; it's a community organization. In Middle Georgia, most people already love sports. If we can get more people to open their minds to consider trying a new sport, it can build a lot of community." If the game's afterparty is a glimpse into that community, new members and fans are sure to be drawn in. The jaunty crowd singing at JBA is ready to celebrate with any and all who join them. The players gave their all on the field and now celebrate each other and their love of the game itself. Macon's rugby team, though ruthless in a scrum, expresses its ethos perfectly in their name: Macon Love. ABOVE Macon Love post-game. Photo Courtesy of Macon Love Rugby. ABOVE The team's Christmas party included pizza and JBA drinks - most of the team prefers beer. Photo Courtesy of Macon Love Rugby. RIGHT A bold catch during Macon Love's matchup with the Gwinnett Rugby Lions. Photo Courtesy of Macon Love Rugby.

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