Taster Day – Schnuppertag Sunday, March 29th!

Free try-out sessions held regularly for new players up to U14. No experience needed, just show up!

Founded in 2004, Zurich Rugby Academy (ZRA) is one of Zurich's most established and welcoming youth sports clubs. Affiliated with Rugby Union Zurich (RUZ), the Grasshoppers Club (GC Rugby Section), and a proud member of the Swiss Rugby Federation (FSR), ZRA offers structured training and competitive opportunities for players from age 5 all the way to U19.

The club's philosophy is captured perfectly in its own words: "Mehr als ein Sport — Werte fürs Leben" (More than a sport — values for life). Rugby teaches children teamwork, resilience, respect, and fair play in a uniquely physical and exciting environment. These are not just buzzwords at ZRA — they are lived every week on the field at Sportplatz Allmend, Brunau, one of Zurich's finest outdoor sports venues.

ZRA competes in tournaments and matches across Switzerland and beyond, and maintains a lively social calendar for both players and their families — from Christmas Samiclaus events and 6 Nations viewings to camping weekends and end-of-season BBQs. This is a club that builds community, not just athletes.

Crucially for new families: all abilities are welcome.

Whether your child has never touched a rugby ball or has some experience, ZRA will find them a place. Regular taster sessions (Schnuppertage) are held for newcomers up to U14, making it one of the most accessible youth rugby programs in the region.

Teams & Age Groups

🐣Under 6 — Mini RugbyBorn 2020 or youngerFrom Age 5

⭐Under 8 — Mini RugbyBorn 2018 / 2019Ages 6–7

🏃Under 10Born 2016 / 2017Ages 8–9

💪Under 12Born 2014 / 2015Ages 10–11

🎯Under 14Born 2012 / 2013Ages 12–13

🏆Under 16Born 2010 / 2011Ages 14–15🦅Under 19Born 2007 / 2008 / 2009Ages 16–18

⚡Girls Rugby AcademyOpen age — girls only teamGirls Team

🤲Touch Rugby JuniorsJunior playersTouch Rugby

What to expect by age group

U6 – U8 Mini Rugby (Ages 5–7): Learning Through PlayNo tackling. Focus is on running, catching, handling and teamwork through fun tag-style rugby games. Confidence and motor skills develop naturally in a joyful group setting.

U10 – U12 Junior Development (Ages 8–11): Building SkillsIntroduction to passing, running lines, support play and light contact. Children develop physical literacy, spatial awareness and the first rugby-specific techniques in a safe and coached environment.

U14 Youth Rugby (Ages 12–13): Competitive & FunFull contact rugby begins under strict supervision. Regular tournaments across Switzerland. Team tactics introduced. Strong focus on discipline, respect, and club identity. Taster sessions available for newcomers.

U16 – U19 Teen & Academy Rugby (Ages 14–18): Performance & ValuesAdvanced training, competitive match schedules, and development pathways toward adult rugby. Many players from this group have gone on to represent regional and national squads.

GIRLS

Girls Rugby Academy: A Team of Their OwnA dedicated girls-only team within ZRA. An increasingly popular pathway in Switzerland, offering girls all the benefits of rugby in an inclusive and empowering environment.

All Abilities WelcomeNo rugby experience needed. Regular free taster sessions let children try before committing.

Values-Driven SportRugby's core values — respect, integrity, solidarity, passion and enjoyment — are woven into every session.

Dedicated Girls TeamA growing girls-only program ensures girls have their own team, coaches, and development pathway.

International CommunityZRA is proudly multilingual and multicultural — a perfect fit for Zurich's expat and international families.

Great FacilitiesTraining at Sportplatz Allmend, Brunau — one of Zurich's premier outdoor sports complexes.🎉Vibrant Social LifeFamily BBQs, Christmas events, camping weekends and 6 Nations viewings — the club bonds off the pitch too.

Kulturlegi SupportedZRA is a Kulturlegi partner, meaning reduced membership fees may be available to qualifying families.

Officially RecognisedSupported by Stadt Zürich Sportamt, ZKS, ASVZ, and ZSS, as a fully accredited and established sports club.

Why Parents Choose ZRA

Club Social Calendar

ZRA is not just about training and matches. A rich social programme brings players and families together throughout the year:

Christmas Samiclaus Event

A beloved Swiss-tradition celebration bringing the whole club family together at the end of the year. Perfect for younger players and their families.

6 Nations Viewing

Watch the world's greatest rugby tournament together as a club. A fantastic way to introduce children to professional rugby and build passion for the game.

Camping Weekend

An overnight adventure for players and families. Builds friendships and team spirit beyond the training pitch in a fun outdoor setting.

Training Weekend

An intensive but enjoyable training camp for players to develop skills, bond with teammates, and push their rugby further in a dedicated setting.

End-of-Season BBQ

The big season finale for all players and parents. Celebrate the year's achievements together in true community spirit.

Haka Rugby Summer Camp

Multi-day summer rugby camp (10–14 August 2026) hosted in Zurich. An exciting intensive programme for young players during the school holidays.

Tips for Parents New to Rugby

Start with a free taster session (Schnuppertag). ZRA holds them regularly for children up to U14. It's the best way for your child to try before committing to membership.
No prior experience is needed at any age. Coaches are trained to welcome absolute beginners alongside more experienced players at every level.
For children under 10, rugby is tag-based and non-contact. A great way to build coordination, confidence and teamwork with zero injury concern.
Bring appropriate clothing and cleats (football boots work fine) to training. ZRA can advise on kit once your child joins. Club merchandise is also available.
Check the AVIA fuel card partnership. Club members can benefit from discounted fuel at AVIA stations, a practical perk for active families driving to training.
If cost is a concern, ask about Kulturlegi membership. ZRA partners with Kulturlegi to make rugby accessible to all families in Zurich regardless of budget.
Rugby is one of the few team sports where all body types are celebrated. Every child, tall, small, fast, or strong, has a position on the field where they can thrive.
The club is bilingual (German & English) and very international. Expat families are warmly welcomed and will find the club easy to integrate into.