If you’re anything like us, your rugby club will play a massive part in your social life, and of course help you achieve your ambitions in the sport, whether that’s developing your game, improving your fitness, or even pulling on a pair of boots for the first time! So you definitely want to pick the best rugby team to join in Leeds.

Burley RUFC is the best social rugby club to join in Leeds, with the First XV competing in Counties 3 Yorkshire and a Second XV playing in a local Merit League. With matches held every Saturday and training every Tuesday and Thursday, Burley is an excellent place to take your next step in rugby, no matter your ability, experience level, background, or any other factor.

The clubhouse is a short distance from Hyde Park, Headingley and Leeds city centre, making it ideally located for students and professionals, with lifts always readily available. There is also a vibrant social scene with regular events in the calendar and a close community feel - you’ll feel at home in no time!

But don’t take our word for it. Last season’s First XV Captain, proud member of ‘the People’s Front Row’ and most recently 7s stalwart Harry F explains why he has loved the five seasons he has spent at Burley.

What three words would you use to describe Burley?

HF: Social, community, and fun.

First and foremost everything at Burley is geared around having fun. We aim for the perfect balance between being competitive and having a laugh with our mates, and I leave every match and training session with a smile on my face. The club is an amazing community, run by volunteers and everybody pitches in which builds a great team spirit.

How would you describe Burley to someone new?

HF: We’re a really close-knit club, supporting of anybody and everybody on every level. No matter whether you’re a veteran or have never picked up a ball, there’s a place for you in our community.

What are some of your favourite Burley memories?

HF: This will be my fifth season and I’ve made some amazing memories over the years. The famous Burley bus trips are always great for silly fun as we travel around Yorkshire with some of our best friends, which has resulted in many of my favourite off the pitch memories.

On the pitch, it has to be reaching the national Papa John’s Plate Final in 2023, when we had to opportunity to play at Darlington Mowden Park, and of course the bus trip that came with it. That day will stick with me forever!

What did you most enjoy about being captain last season?

HF: As captain, it was great to get to know everybody at the club really well, from the oldest to the newest members of the team. It was a difficult season for us on the pitch, but everybody kept working so hard to turn things around and eventually stay up.

What would you say to somebody who was thinking about joining Burley for the 2024/25 season?

HF: Don’t think, just do it. It’s a great place for people of all abilities to come and play rugby and develop their skills and play as part of a proper community club. You won’t regret it!

Pre-season training begins on Tuesday 2nd July, and is held every Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30-8pm. New and returning players are welcome at every session and it would be great to see you there!

Message us on Instagram or join us at training at 194 Abbey Road, Hawksworth, Leeds LS5 3NG.