After beginning the sport five years ago, Jake Murray, senior and lock for the Palatine Barbarians, continues to tackle the rugby field in his last year of high school, in hopes to continue playing the sport in college.

Murray began playing for the Palatine Rugby Club in seventh grade. Since then, he has been playing the sport that is “more physical than football”, according to Cameron Kruse, teammate  and backline for the Palatine Barbarians.

Q: How did you become interested in playing?
A: “I was really looking for a contact sport and I didn’t want to play football. I actually went to my cousin’s games and they introduced me to it. I loved the sport, even after watching one game. I didn’t really understand what was going on, but I knew I wanted to join.”

Q: What made you want to play a contact sport?
A: “I’m not a person to usually fight people. I joined rugby as a contact sport for the camaraderie, but I also wanted to build up my physical strength. Rugby has helped me [stay] in shape a lot as well.”

Q: Why do you like rugby?
A: “I love it because there’s great camaraderie and even though when we’re against an opposing team, we may be angry at the time, but after the game, all hurt feelings are gone. Being able to tackle someone, just really take them down without hard feelings, of course, is actually a really good feeling. Just being able to run right past someone gives you a rush. I’m glad I joined.”

Q: What has been your best experience while playing?
A: “I have to say getting the Man of the Match award, which is MVP for that particular game. It was definitely one of my greatest accomplishments and one of the best experiences I’ve had so far.”

Q: What has been your worst experience while playing?
A: “I have broken my collarbone, dislocated my shoulders, separated my shoulders. I basically just injured my shoulders very badly.”

Q: What do you want people to know about rugby?
A:  “I just want people to know rugby is a great sport. If you start watching it and pick up on some of the rules, it actually becomes a very interesting game. It’s hard because not a lot of people know about rugby. It’s a nationally broadcasted sport, but the United States is a pretty secluded country. I think it should have more popularity so more people get into it.”

Q: What advice would you give to incoming players?
A: “Hit low, don’t forget your mouthguard, and have fun with the game. Don’t get in fights either.”