Rugby Takes Off in Himachal Pradesh: High-Altitude Coaching for Young Talent

Rugby is making significant strides in Himachal Pradesh with a new coaching initiative for Under-19 players at Trilokinath, located over 9,000 feet above sea level. This program, supported by the Himachal Pradesh Government, aims to introduce rugby to school children, especially in remote areas. With district-level trials leading to a State tournament, young athletes will have the opportunity to develop their skills and compete at higher levels. The initiative not only promotes the sport but also encourages participation from diverse regions, paving the way for future national competitions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 16, 2026, 17:53 IST

Rugby Coaching Initiative in Lahaul-Spiti

Rugby is experiencing a significant boost in Himachal Pradesh, particularly with the launch of structured coaching and talent scouting for Under-19 players at Trilokinath in Lahaul-Spiti, which is located over 9,000 feet above sea level, as reported by the Rugby Association Himachal Pradesh (RAHP).

Navpeet Singh, a coach and selector for RAHP, who also leads the Himachal Pradesh State rugby team, visited Government School Trilokinath to conduct a refresher course aimed at schoolchildren while scouting for promising talent for both boys' and girls' Under-19 rugby teams. This initiative coincides with the ongoing school sports meet in the Lahaul region, featuring around 150 students from 19 schools. Currently, the event is focused on boys, with the girls' competition set for September 22.

Government Support for Rugby in Schools

The initiative gains further importance as the Himachal Pradesh Government has introduced rugby in the Under-19 category of school games on a trial basis for this academic year. Under this trial, district-level teams are being formed through trials, leading to a proposed State-level rugby tournament in October.

The aim is to provide school children throughout the State, including those from remote and tribal regions, the chance to learn rugby, enhance their skills, and compete through a structured school sports framework. Vinod Kumar, ADPEO Lahaul, praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of specialized rugby coaching in remote areas. He noted that including rugby in school games would allow students to explore a new sport and develop their athletic potential.

A Distinctive High-Altitude Program

The unique geographical context of this program sets it apart. Government records indicate that Trilokinath is situated at approximately 2,760 meters, or over 9,000 feet, above sea level. While high-altitude rugby training is not entirely new globally, introducing grassroots rugby coaching and talent identification in such a remote Himalayan area marks a significant step in the sport's growth.

Pathway to Higher Competitions

For RAHP, the Trilokinath initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote rugby beyond traditional sporting hubs and discover talent from various districts in Himachal Pradesh. This school-level rugby program also paves the way for higher-level competitions. After district trials, a State tournament is planned for October, where selected players can aim for State representation. Rugby is also included in the School Games Federation of India (SGFI) program, with Under-19 Rugby Boys and Girls scheduled for the National School Games in Delhi from October 31 to November 5, 2026.

For the young athletes in Lahaul, the program at Government School Trilokinath signifies more than just an introduction to a new sport; it offers a chance to embark on a sporting journey from the high Himalayas to district, State, and national competitions. Following the boys' event and the upcoming girls' event on September 22, the focus will shift to identifying and nurturing rugby talent from schools across Lahaul-Spiti, as stated by Vikas Sood, President of Rugby Association Himachal Pradesh.