Rugby Little Sisters is a campus organization devoted to supporting Auburn University Rugby Club.
"This organization is one that is a lot of fun, and there is never a dull moment in the sport of rugby," said Donna Tope, president of Rugby Little Sisters.
Not only do they attend all home games and some away games, but every little sister is assigned a "big brother" on the team for whom they provide water and snacks at each game.
"We also provide Auburn spirit wherever we are," Tope said.
As president of the group, Tope coordinates with the president of the AU Rugby Club to discuss game schedules, social gatherings between the team and the little sisters, making sure that each little sister is content and excited about their role in the organization.
"I spread the word on campus about Rugby Little Sisters and recruit girls to sign up to join the organization," Tope said.
Zoey Gay, vice president of the organization, said they provide their big brothers with enthusiasm at each game and have monthly meetings to re-group and discuss upcoming events.
"I am present at every game making sure every sister has provided her big brother with the essentials and the spirit that is to the fullest," Gay said.
The organization is a great way to meet a large number of people.
Tope said because the group travels to away games on occasion, the members can experience new places, other universities and other teams they may not have been able to beforehand.
Matthew Broadway, a player on the rugby team, said the little sisters do some fundamental things for the team.
"They help with fundraising, T-shirt sales and putting together social events with the team that usually lead to a tight-knit bond between us and the Little Sisters," Broadway said. "Some of the girls with big hearts take it upon themselves to bring water to the games and even bake the occasional batch of cookies, which we really like."
Tope also said she promotes rugby because it is a unique and unfamiliar sport to most people.
Having a chance to learn about it and its culture on Auburn's campus is something of which people should take advantage.
"Besides being a great way to get to know some really great people, a support group for the team and a great social outlet for spreading interest in the game of rugby, which over a hundred countries play internationally," Broadway said.
Both Rugby Little Sisters and the team strive to promote the culture of rugby in the Auburn community.
After each match the custom is for the home team to throw a party to meet the other team in a more social environment.
"I would encourage others to become a Rugby Little Sister because it is an awesome way to meet people and learn more about this unique sport," Gay said. "Not many campuses have a rugby team and support for them. So, by joining this organization someone can learn about rugby as well as the tradition that comes with it."
They give the team an added feeling of community and friendship, Broadway said.
The team loves the game of rugby, and they love sharing it with people who are interested.
"It proves that the Auburn spirit runs thick within the student body when Tigers show appreciation for all sports, NCAA and Club," Broadway said.
Tope and Gay both agreed that being a Rugby Little Sister has allowed them to meet new people and learn new things about rugby they wouldn't have known before.
"The thrill of the games and the Auburn spirit throughout the pitch is an amazing feeling," Gay said.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
