TRY RUGBY PROGRAMME
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TRY RUGBY PROGRAMME 〰️
Starting September 2026
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Starting September 2026 〰️
The Brighton and Hove Sea Serpents Try Rugby programme is a welcoming and inclusive programme designed for anyone who wants to give rugby a go or return to rugby after some time away - regardless of experience or fitness level. Whether you're completely new to the sport or just looking to get back into it, our friendly and supportive team will guide you through the basics of the game in a fun and relaxed environment. As an LGBTQ+ inclusive rugby club, we celebrate diversity and pride ourselves on creating a safe space where everyone can feel valued. Join us to learn new skills, build confidence, and make lasting friendships on and off the pitch!
The "Try Rugby" programme runs every year in January and September, offering new participants the opportunity to get involved at the start of both the new year and the start of the rugby season.
The Try Rugby Programme is a structured 8-week course, with sessions on Monday and Wednesday evenings, starting in September 2026 and continuing for 8 weeks. At the end of the programme, there will be a graduation match, and from there you’ll have the option to join the main squad and continue your rugby journey, if you’d like to.
Register your interest for September 2026
Try Rugby Graduation - December 2025
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Not at all! The 'Try Rugby' programme is designed for complete beginners as well as those who may not have played for a while. Our experienced coaches will guide you through the basics at your own pace.
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Yes! The programme is open to anyone aged 18 and over, regardless, fitness level, or experience. We are an LGBTQ+ inclusive club and welcome allies too.
Gender Participation RFU Policy Statement (2 Aug 2022)
https://www.englandrugby.com/the-rfu/policies/gender-participation
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No, you don’t need to be in peak fitness. The sessions are tailored to accommodate all fitness levels, with a focus on having fun and gradually building skills and confidence.
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The 'Try Rugby' programme is £20. After that, there will be affordable options to continue your journey with the Sea Serpents.
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Our sessions are held at Hove Recreation Ground on Monday & Wednesday from 18:45 to 20:45.
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The clubhouse has communal changing rooms and showers available for all players.
We understand that communal changing facilities aren’t comfortable for everyone, for many different reasons. Private changing and showering options are also available for anyone who would prefer them.
Using private facilities is completely fine and supported. You do not need to explain why. Privacy is available to anyone who wants it.
If you’d like to use private facilities:
Speak with anyone or if you prefer, your assigned buddy to be shown where these are.
You can contact the club in advance if you’d prefer to arrange this before your first session.
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No special equipment is required for your first sessions. We’ll provide rugby balls and any other essentials needed for training.
Comfortable, sporty clothing that you can move in easily. If you have football or rugby boots, feel free to bring them, but regular trainers are fine for your first session. Don’t forget a bottle of water!
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If you love the experience (and we think you will!), we’ll guide you on how to join the Brighton and Hove Sea Serpents as a full member. You’ll have the opportunity to continue training, play matches, and become part of our vibrant community.
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Yes, parking is available. Alternatively, the training is easily accessible via bus or train.
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Train
The nearest train station is Hove. As you come out of the station, take the bridge across the railway line to avoid walking around.
Bus
Several bus routes stop close to the ground. Most stops are within a 2–10 minute walk.
The nearest stops include:
21 – Shirley Drive
47, 52 & 59A – Old Shoreham Road / The Drive
3X, 7, 21 & 95A – Hove Train Station
https://www.buses.co.uk/plan-your-journey
Bicycle
Cycle racks are available at the clubhouse, located opposite the kit store hut.
Frequently Asked Questions
This captured the atmosphere and impact of the latest Try Rugby graduation match, bringing listeners directly to the sidelines to hear from the people at the heart of the programme.
Recorded on the day of the match, featuring interviews with new graduates, coaches, volunteers and supporters, reflecting on their experiences of the Try Rugby and what the journey has meant to them.
Register your interest for September 2026
Mika
Try Rugby Graduate - September 2024
“When I joined our Try Rugby programme, I didn’t just discover a new sport - I found a team where I can truly be myself. Here, learning the game feels comfortable and fun, surrounded by teammates and coaches who create a safe and welcoming space for everyone. Whether you’ve never picked up a ball before (like me) or you’re looking for a fresh start, this is where rugby becomes more than a sport - it’s a place where you find your people.”
“I’d never played team sports - school and university teams always felt toxic - so rugby felt like a big leap. I wanted something to complement my weight training and give me a shared goal. I kept say “it’s not for me”. Still, I jointed BHSS Try Rugby just days before it began, feeling excited with a touch of terror. From day one, the teams'‘s welcoming attitude and support kept me coming back. In just months, I’ve faced my fears, build confidence and learned to let go and enjoy moments”
Danny
Try Rugby Graduate - January 2025
Alex
Try Rugby Graduate - September 2024
Gus
Try Rugby Graduate - January 2025
“Joining an LGBTQ+ team has been a transformative experience. It’s not just about playing a sport I’ve quickly fallen in love: it’s like a finding a second family. The team’s incredible support has helped me feel like I belong and has significantly improbverd my mental health. We push each other, laugh together and have a strong community. It’s about connection, confidence and having fun. I’ll even be marching in my first ever pride parade with my teammates, feeling proud and supported.”
“As a trans person who used to play alot of team sports as a child / teenager but had to stop when I could no longer play in a team that reflected my gender, finding Try Rugby and The Serpents has been incredible for both my mental and physical health. Being trans is not only accepted and celebrated, but no one bats an eyelid. On and off the pitch we’re all just guys having a good time. Try rugby especially was such a good introduction into what is quite a brutal sport, in an incredibly safe and structured way. I can’t recommend Try Rugby enough for any trans people who might be scared of gendered sports, but moreover just any who wants a safe place to exercise and improve their mental and physical health.”
Before our latest recruits took to the pitch for their graduation game in December 2025 we asked them what their favourite thing about Try Rugby was….
