How it Started

Joe Hogan started playing rugby for the Southern Pines Men’s Rugby Club in 2003. He immediately fell in love with the sport and recruited enough high school friends to form a youth club in 2004. The initial Southern Pines Jokers ran from 2004-2006. After he graduated, the club went dormant until Rob Bortins and Gus Remington brought High School rugby back to Moore County as the Gators from 2010-2014.

After he completed college and served his Country as a Marine, he moved back to Moore County. In 2017 he was asked if he wanted to start back the high school program. Gareth Williams and Joe got the club back up and running towards the end of 2017. He started with 3 high school players that would play matches with Raleigh Rugby. In 2019 he was able to field his own club and in 2020 he added the youth program. That’s when he recruited Emily Nickle and Victoria Caristo to form an official board, soon after, the club exploded in numbers.

Now, in 2024, we are one of the largest clubs in the state with by far the lowest population. Over 225 players registered, 10 college scholarships, numerous players on select teams, and one traveling internationally this summer to play rugby. 

We believe in growing grassroots rugby while including youth from all walks of life, no matter their physical abilities. All of our coaches and board members are volunteers, most active duty Military or Veterans.