“From the moment I joined and recently seeing how old members welcome new people, I experienced nothing more than love and acceptance”
“For me, it is a very positive environment that celebrates being queer whilst also including people who aren't.”
“I’ve never felt more welcome in a group and never had so many queer friends before joining the Lowlanders”
New to rugby?
We run the Newbies Programme twice each season, in September/October and in February, for people who haven't played before. Over six weeks the group meets twice a week to build up the skills and knowledge needed to be able to join our regular squads.
If you miss the newbies sign up, there are other opportunities to join. Send an email to Info@amsterdamlowlanders.nl.
Have rugby experience?
If you are currently playing for a rugby team in the Netherlands you can play with the Lowlanders in our local and international tournaments. The Lowlanders compete in Inclusive Global Rugby Tournaments (IGR) such as the Union Cup and the Bingham Cup, that bring together LGBTQ+ rugby players from around the world.
If you have rugby experience (more than 1 year playing) you are able to join our regular practices.
Frequently asked questions
Where do you train?
Amstelveense Rugby Club, Sportlaan 25a, Amstelveen
When do you train?
We normally practice on Wednesdays 20:00-21:30, the Newbies Programme will be held on Fridays 20:00-21:30
What to wear to practice?
We train in the sunshine, rain and cold. Dress for outdoors fitness training. You do not need special clothing or equipment, we do suggest a pair of football or rugby cleats.
How many teams do you have and and what level do they play at?
- Aqua (Division 1)
- Orange (Division3)
- Pink (Division 4)
- Newbies Starters, new players with less than 1 year experience.
Do you have a women's team?
Our W team competes in the women's division.
I am not LGBTQ, can I play with you?
Yes - We are fully inclusive and welcome all players no matter your sexual identity.
What facilities do you have?
ARC has 3 grass pitches. There are ample changing rooms and facilities and our club house has a bar.
Do you have medical and physio provision?
Yes - we have a club physio who is fully qualified in sports rehabilitation and support.
How much is membership?
Our player’s fee is 100 euro for players, per season (September-June). For supporters it is 50 euro.
To be a member of the Lowlanders you will also need to be registered at a Rugby Club in the Netherlands. Our home club is Amstelveense Rugby club. A membership at ARC is around 310 per season. This covers player insurance, match fees, kit, physio and access to the club house.
If you are already a member of a rugby club in the Netherlands you are not required to sign up with ARC.
To join our rugby newbies programme is €50 for 6 weeks. Included is your mouth guard and your first rugby game. If you choose to join the team after the newbies training you pay only the additional €50 for the rest of the season with the Lowlanders.
I have zero experience, can I still join?
Yes. Our newbies programme and development team allows you to learn the game with people at the same level of skill.
Who do I reach out to?
Eva
Team Manager W
Niels
Team Manager M
I’m already a member of another rugby club, can I still join?
Yes, we offer an associate membership that grants you the same rights as a member but you don’t have to sign up for our host club Amstelveense Rugby Club.
“The Lowlanders had a great positive effect on my mental health exactly because for the first time I felt I belonged to a queer family.”
“I have never been able to speak my mind without judgment, being heard, being treated with respect, than with this group of people.”
“The Lowlanders feel like a place where I can be myself in gender, sexuality and personality.”