Experienced player?
Do you already have (international) rugby experience and are coming to Eindhoven?
We want to welcome you to our club.
Student Rugby at a high level
The main goal at THE Elephants is to have fun playing rugby. However, in our first men’s team, we play to win. At the moment, we play in the second division of the Netherlands, battling for the first spot last season. The team is on track to join the first division (highest full amateur level) within two years. To achieve this, we’re always looking for experienced players to strengthen our club.
The selection consists of 30 active players who give their all on the pitch. We have players from all different backgrounds: Dutch, Irish, Spanish, French, Italian, Romanian, and many more. The team is made up of players who started new but worked hard to get to the needed level, and experienced players, with a few having played Ereklasse (highest Dutch level of rugby) or for their respective national (youth) selections.
Unique to the Netherlands is the student rugby culture. Many of the Dutch players are introduced to rugby via their university rugby team. Throughout the season, student tournaments are organized (mainly for new players), and all the clubs battle for the linear Student Shield trophy. The best of the best students can be selected to play for the Dutch student team, an invite team that will play against tough opponents like the Dutch U21 squad.
Besides that, we at the Elephants host the national 7s student championship each year. Where the different university teams battle for a spot at the European student championships.
What we offer:
- Two practice sessions on Tuesday and Thursday
- Committed head coach with a coaching staff of over 5
- Specialised backs trainer
- Forward- and Scrum coach (ex-Ereklasse player)
- Team physio
- Team medic during games
- Gym, with pool and lots of group lessons, included in SSCE-card
- Gym-schedule made by professional S&C coach
- All matches are recorded for video analyses.
- Discounts on rugby gear from Macron
New to Eindhoven?
At the Elephants, we know it can be a big transition to move to a new city, especially when coming from abroad. That’s why we want everyone to feel welcome in our city. Joining the Elephants is the perfect way to make friends and learn all about the (student) life in Eindhoven. Being an international association, there are always members that have been in similar situations and want to provide help when needed.
Outside of practices and matches, we meet up to study, to go to the gym, or to party together. And who knows, sometimes other members can help you find a job or new housing.
The club
Currently, the club has one ladies’ team and two gents’ teams, which we hope to expand even further in the near future. With over 100 active players and ambitions to grow, we want to become one of the biggest student rugby clubs in the country.
Interested?
Are you interested in continuing your rugby journey at ESRC THE Elephants? Or want to know more about Dutch (student) rugby and its level?
Leave your contact information here, and we will contact you a.s.a.p. to help you further.
Or you can contact our team captain directly: +31 6 19576595
