How I ended up playing rugby – and why you should too

Vibbe Grimsrud

Had you told me a year ago that I’d be playing in a mixed rugby team—the European Parliament XV Rugby Team - I would have laughed out loud. Honestly, I still chuckle about it sometimes at the thought of me being a Norwegian lobbyist playing up rugby in Brussels. A year ago - what odds would I have got on the outcome!

It all started over liquid lunch at Place de Londres. I was chatting with a friend about how much I missed playing an outdoor team sport. It was just an off-hand comment, and I didn’t think much more about it at that time. But, as readers of this newsletter probably know, Brussels has its own strange and wonderful ways. That friend told another friend, who happened to play for the recently established European Parliament XV Rugby Team – known to many as the EPXV Team. Next thing I knew, I was unceremoniously added to a dedicated EPXV WhatsApp group, and just like that, my rugby journey began.

With no previous experience, and certainly no idea of the rules (which I now know are laws). Absolutely no clue what a scrum was let alone the dark arts that govern it. I was a total novice.

But you know what? Showing up to my first night training was such a great experience. A new teammate offered me a lift from the Schuman area, and from the moment I arrived, I felt most welcome by all. Everyone was so encouraging, explaining things, helping me figure out what to do, and just generally being supportive. The great thing about this team is that you don’t need to know anything about rugby to get started. Someone is always willing to guide you or explain what’s happening—and they’ll do it with a smile.

The best part? It is the social aspects and the immense fun we have. It is a very collaborative outdoor activity and extremely inclusive in terms of skill levels and gender.

What makes the EPXV team special is that we’re an extremely mixed group, bringing together players of all nationalities, backgrounds, and experience. Everyone has a place in the team, from complete beginners to seasoned players. Our attentive coaches tailor drills to individual abilities, ensuring everyone feels challenged and supported. This inclusive approach builds not just teamwork but true camaraderie, on-and-off the pitch.

No matter how stressful my day has been, training always turns it around—I leave every session with a few bumps but many more smiles. That’s the magic of rugby and this team. I hope if you are reading this newsletter and becomes a little curious about playing rugby, that the will take the same leap as I did and join us. You won't regret it.

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PS! I am still not 100 % sure what a scrum is, but don’t tell anyone - we can figure it out together when you join us.