Rugby Union
Aussie rugby — hard and fast, your next big hit
If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at the fast-paced, running style rugby of the Wallabies, here’s your chance. Our programmes let you immerse yourself in the unique and unmatched world of Southern Hemisphere rugby. Enjoy world-class coaching in an awesome club environment alongside talented players who are as passionate about the game as you are. What’s not to like?
Play the Mini Season in Australia
Get a taste of Aussie life with our Mini Season rugby programme. Spend part of the season with a local rugby club.
Play the Full Season in Australia
Get the full, undiluted Aussie rugby experience! You'll play, train and party all season long with a local rugby club.
A new perspective on rugby
Our rugby union programmes in Melbourne let you experience the very best of the Aussie sporting lifestyle, from sun-soaked pitches to first-class training facilities and social events. You’ll soon feel at home in a club that’s been hand-picked to suit your ability and experience – it’s a great chance to reach your full potential as a player. So get ready – it’s time to make unforgettable memories and new friends for life.
Whether you’re hoping to pursue a career in sport or just following your passion for rugby, a Sport Lived programme in Australia will give you valuable experience for the future. The teamwork, commitment and determination that you develop playing or coaching will be a valuable addition to your CV.
- Add an extra dimension to your CV
- Immerse yourself in a brand-new culture
- Build valuable skills for your future
- Challenge yourself with new experiences
Our programmes have inspired the best.
Here are a few of our success stories.
Ed Tellwright
“Playing in Australia was essential for my later rugby success.”
Ed took part in a Sport Lived rugby programme in Australia before studying for a BSc in Sports Biochemistry and Nutrition in Cardiff. While at university he represented England playing for English Students and British Universities. Ed also diversified into sevens with the Great Britain University 7's team and Samurai International where he was part of their winning team at the Middlesex 7s. He went on to play rugby professionally for Sale Sharks, Rotherham Titans, Jersey RFC and Coventry. Ed currently works as the South West Senior Manager for the British Business Bank.
Phoebe Murray
“The level of coaching and training I received was outstanding.”
Phoebe’s passion for rugby started at the age of six and is still going strong! She played rugby with Sport Lived during her gap year and was subsequently appointed Captain of the England U20 rugby team for their successful summer tour of Canada. Today, Phoebe is studying medicine at Bristol University, where she also plays for the Bristol Bears, competing in the Allianz Premier 15s. Though becoming a doctor is her long-term plan, her more immediate ambition is to break into the England senior squad and play rugby full-time and professionally.
Theo McKibbin Malins-Smith
“I had a great time and really evolved as both a person and a player.”
Whilst at Rugby School, Theo played 1st XV Rugby, 1st XI Cricket and then played rugby with Sport Lived in Australia during his gap year. After taking a degree in Ancient History at Nottingham University, where continued to play both rugby and cricket, he qualified as a chartered accountant and currently works in Valuation, Modelling and Economics for EY in London. He remains a keen sportsman, playing cricket for the MCC.
Tim Swinson
“If I hadn't gone to Australia, I wouldn't be here now”
Tim played a full season rugby programme in Australia with Sport Lived before studying at Newcastle University. He was selected to play for Premiership team the Newcastle Falcons where he was named Player of the Year in 2010-11. He went on to play for Glasgow Warriors for eight years, during which time he also won 38 caps for his home nation of Scotland. He postponed retirement to play two seasons for Saracens before finally hanging up his boots in 2022. Tim now lives in Edinburgh where he works as a consultant for a firm of Chartered Accountants.
Alex Goble
“The experience in Australia helped me become a better player”
Alex played rugby with Sport Lived in Australia on his gap year, before heading to Nottingham Trent University to study for a BSc in Property. While at university he was selected to play for England Counties U20. Since graduating Alex has played professionally for Old Elthamians, and now plays part-time for Richmond RFC as well as working in property development.
Andrew Bardsley
“Sport Lived gave me experiences and friends I would never otherwise have had.”
In his time at Giggleswick School, Andrew played First XV rugby and First XI cricket and represented the school at football, hockey and swimming. A sporting gap year followed with Sport Lived in Australia where he coached two school rugby teams for a season. He studied for a philosophy degree at the University of Stirling, and having always enjoyed the challenge of leading and building teams, he embarked on a career in training and development. Andrew is currently Head of Learning and Development at xDesign, an IT Consulting company in Edinburgh.
Jimmy Keinhorst
“The coaching, guidance and training all made for something really special.”
Jimmy completed a Sport Lived rugby programme before studying at Leeds Metropolitan University where he played rugby union for Leeds Met, British Universities and National League team Otley. While at university, Jimmy was spotted by the Leeds Rhinos Rugby League coaching staff and went on to sign for the club in 2011, and was part of the victorious Rhinos Super League winning team in 2015.
Handpicked clubs.
Unique programmes.
An unmatched sporting experience awaits.
Develop your passion for sport overseas
We don’t like to blow our own trumpet, but we offer trips that no one else can match. We handpick the best club for you based on your playing career to date and the type of programme you’re looking to undertake.
