Fort Dodge aims to build on rugby success | News, Sports, Jobs

The Fort Dodge Rugby Club is gearing up for an exciting 2024 season after a successful 2023 campaign that saw them reach the state field and place third for the first time in program history. Head coach Tom McClimon is leading the team through a transition period after graduating a talented senior class, but the Stags are embracing the challenge of reloading rather than just rebuilding.

McClimon is impressed with how the team has come together, with several veteran players stepping up to fill the void in leadership. Seniors Ty Adams, Isaiah Caldwell, and Isaac Firsching, along with juniors Gavin Pederson and Carlos Elias, are leading the charge on and off the field. The team is focused on playing a physical brand of rugby and upholding the Fort Dodge Rugby Club’s reputation for toughness.

The Stags opened their spring campaign with a split last Friday, defeating Waverly-Shell Rock and falling to Cedar Falls. McClimon sees areas for improvement, particularly in staying connected on defense and finding offensive structure.

The team is also focused on growing the rugby culture in Fort Dodge, with plans to expand both the boys and girls programs. With a strong roster and dedicated coaching staff, the Stags are looking to build on their success from last season and make a run for the title in 2024.

Fans can catch the Stags in action this Friday at West Des Moines Valley, where they will face tough competition in Valley and Southeast Polk. The team’s home invitational is scheduled for May 3, where they will take on Cedar Rapids Washington and Des Moines Roosevelt. Stay tuned for more updates on the Fort Dodge Rugby Club’s journey to the top in 2024.