Pelican RFC History

Bay Area Pelican Rugby Football Club Inc (PRFC) is a not for profit corporation dedicated to the promotion and development of the sport of rugby football in the greater Tampa Bay area.

PRFC, founded in 1977, is among the oldest continuously-active rugby clubs in Florida.  Building around a core of experienced and dedicated athletes, PRFC is well known for its willingness to train new ruggers from scratch.  Established and new member alike enjoy the club's close-knit social fellowship and enthusiastic level of play.  PRFC's goals include regularly fielding a ‘B’ team men’s side, a Summer 7’s team and an Olde Boys (35+, soon to include 45+) "Pelidactyls" side.  The Pelicans have fielded a U19 youth team and plans are in place to start two or more programs within the next 12 months.  Establishing a Pelican women’s division is likewise on the roadmap.  

PRFC is registered with rugby's national governing body, USA Rugby, and competes in the Florida Rugby Union (FRU), D3 which includes clubs in Tallahassee, Gainesville, Tampa, Sarasota, Daytona, Brevard, Indian River and Palm Beach.

Community Service & Social Events

Off the field, team members can be found engaged in numerous social and service activities.

Recently, the club has volunteered its time and resources to support the Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society and has been the top fundraiser for the event more than once.  The club raised money to help Sophia Anderson in her fight with cancer & collects food donations given to the less-privileged around the holidays.

Our Family Day /BBQ at Ft DeSoto Park, bi-monthly socials, annual club banquet & awards night are all designed to encourage the growth of rugby in the area.  We invite rugby fans and newcomers alike to attend our matches.  You can enjoy the brotherhood of rugby on the pitch and/or afterwards, off the pitch-- maybe over a pint or two...

If you are interested in contributing to rugby from the sidelines or from an office, please contact us for more info!