ABOUT
ALBUQUERQUE RUGBY CLUB

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MISSION & HISTORY.

Albuquerque Rugby Club was founded in 1972 and later became known as the Albuquerque Aardvarks Rugby Club. In 1972 the Aardvarks hosted their first High Desert Rugby Classic that coincided with the inaugural Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.

For years the High Desert Rugby Classic invited rugby clubs from all over the country to visit our tournament and to come see the balloons. Eventually the tourney and Balloon Fiesta grew so big that the tourney was moved to the end of October to accommodate the two day rugby tournament.

Today, the organization has evolved into a nonprofit dedicated to growing rugby as a vehicle for opportunity, leadership, and New Mexico cultural pride. Our mission is to grow rugby and use it as a vehicle for cultural exchange, economic impact and community involvement in underserved communities. Our youth rugby initiatives are primarily dedicated to the South Valley and International District Communities. There we use ruggy to build confidence, character, and lifelong connections. Through coaching, mentorship, and community partnerships, we strive to create safe and inclusive pathways for young and mature

athletes both on and off the pitch.

In addition to youth development, we proudly support and represent a Mexican-American international rugby team, celebrating our shared cultures, heritages, and cross-border cultural exchange through sport. Starting in 2025 we formed the first ever Mexican-American Mens and Womens Rugby Club. In 2026 we will beging our u19 program that promotes pathways in both United States and Mexico rugby. By honoring our roots while looking forward, we continue to use rugby as a bridge—between generations, cultures, and communities—staying true to the spirit that inspired our founding in 1972.

Albuquerque Rugby Club Through the Years

PARTNERS.

We’re proud to be supported by a group of generous sponsors whose backing makes everything we do as a non-profit rugby club possible—from grassroots development to match day jerseys. Their commitment helps us make rugby for everyone and driven by community rather than profit. Sponsorship with our club isn’t just advertising to our millions of social media reach; it’s an investment in people that do great things, reaching underserved communities, and connecting the world through sport. We’re always excited to welcome new partners who share our values and want to be part of our journey both on and off the field. If you’re interested in supporting community rugby and growing alongside a passionate club, we’d love to hear from you.