FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions
What is chiropractic?
Chiropractic is a healthcare profession that was established in 1895. It is a natural and non-invasive form of health care that is based on the principle that the body has the inherent ability to heal without the use of drugs or surgery.
What kind of education do doctors of chiropractic have?
Chiropractic professional education provides the doctoral candidate with a core of knowledge in the basic sciences, clinical sciences, and related health subjects in order to achieve competence in the workings of the human body. This allows the doctor of chiropractic to perform the professional obligations of a primary care clinician.
How can I get a rugby scholarship?
If you are eligible for entry into the course of study at Life West and you qualify as an elite athlete, you can apply for a scholarship.
How do I know if I am eligible for admission?
The best way to see if you are eligible is to contact the Admissions Team at Life West College at admissions@lifewest.edu or 1.510.780.4501.
What is rugby?

Rugby is a fast paced, team-oriented, contact sport that originated in England in the 19th Century.

There are two formats; 15 players per side and 7 players per side. In the 15s format, games are played in two, 40-minute halves. In 7s, each half is 7 minutes long. The sport is exceptionally dynamic and free-flowing and requires every player to pass, catch, kick, tackle, and run. All athletes play both offense and defense and decision making is widely distributed. There are positions for all body types and the sport is known for being both inclusive and community-minded.

Rules are the same for male and female athletes and very little equipment is required to engage beyond cleated boots and a mouth guard.

Is rugby dangerous?
Rugby is a contact sport and that has inherent risks. However, the there is a huge emphasis and focus on non-contact rugby skills and avoiding contact. Safety is taught within drills and rugby is designed in such a manner that safety is built into fundamental techniques such as tackling and going to ground.
What are some benefits of playing rugby?
Rugby offers obvious physical benefits such as improvements in health and fitness. Equally important, rugby fosters a culture and environment of warmth and inclusiveness based on honor, respect and sportsmanship. Many crossover athletes also report seeing the field or court in a whole different light when re-engaging in their other sports because of the emphasis rugby places on field vision and decision making.
Do you take on players who are new rugby?
Yes! Many of the current players had never played rugby before stepping onto the field with a Life West rugby team. We are looking for people that want to learn the game. Playing any other sports is a benefit but not a requirement.
What equipment will I need, especially if I am new to rugby?
All playing uniforms are supplied by Life West rugby including training uniforms. You will need a mouth guard and rugby cleats/boots (if you have them).
Do I need to pay dues right away in order to play?
No. We have a dues structure that include payment plans. Dues cover the cost of practice facilities, game fields, equipment, after match functions/socials, playing uniforms, coaching etc. However to play in a U.S.A. sanctioned rugby game you will need to register with USA Rugby to be eligible and covered by our insurance.
How much are dues to play for a season?
$150 annually, per player
Do I have to be a student at the college to play?
No, whilst we encourage all students to take up the sport, at present we are a club team with both student and community players.
Do you take on international players that are not students?
Yes. However, we are an amateur program that has an education-first focus. We welcome players from around the globe that have the ability to stay and play in the United States.
Is it true that the Life West have an international rugby coach?
Yes, that is correct. In 2013, New Zealander, Adriaan Ferris was appointed as the Athletics Director and Head Coach of the Rugby Team. Adriaan was Assistant Coach of the Tongan National Team, the ‘Ikale Tahi in 2014. He has experience as a professional coach in New Zealand.
Is the program amateur or high performance?
Whilst the program itself is amateur in nature, it is a true high performance program where we are helping players develop their game to help take them to the highest level possible. In some cases, that is International level.
What competitions do you compete in?
At present, Gladiators compete in the USA Rugby Division 2 competition after making the Division 3 National Championship final in 2013 in our first year. We know that it was an incredible feat and are eager to play in Division 1 but the process requires that we earn the right to play Division 1 by virtue of qualifying. It is only our second year in existence and we are growing the foundations of a good program.
Do you play 7s?
yes, the club has a strong interest and participation in 7-aside rugby. As a future Olympic Sport, it provides opportunities for our players to be involved in at a high level.
How long is rugby season?
15’s Rugby season runs from mid-October (pre-season) and ends the first week of June with National Championships.
Sevens Rugby starts immediately after the XV’s season and runs until the first week in August
When do you train and play?
During XV’s season we train every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 7:00pm-9:00pm. Games are typically played on Saturday afternoon. In the 7s season we train Monday-Thursday from 7:00pm-9:00pm. Games are held in a one or two day tournament format and are typically played from anywhere from 9:00am to 4:00pm. Additional Training: there are strength & conditioning sessions available for all players year round. Times vary due to the availability of our Strength and Conditioning Trainer and the phase of the season we are in.
Do you travel?
Yes. The regular season, under the Northern California Rugby Football Union, covers most Northern California and Northern Nevada. Due to the nature of the regional and conference structure of the USA rugby competitions, we travel extensively across the United States.
Where do you train and play?
On field trainings are currently held at Sunset Fields in Hayward, CA. Away games are played anywhere throughout Northern California and home games are held at either Pioneer Stadium, East Bay or Kennedy Park, Hayward.