Rugby has gained popularity in America lately, and its sports appeal has kicked in with kid players and adult coaches in the Rumson-Fair Haven area.

RFH Youth Rugby, under the umbrella of Jersey Shore Youth Rugby Association, has kicked off its spring season with a camp session and has more in store.

Here’s what’s happening:

• The first day of spring youth rugby camp was held at the Community Center fields in Fair Haven on May 7 with a great turnout, organizers said. The camp comprises a co-ed, non-tackle, flag rugby program for kids kindergarten age through 8 that runs until the middle of June on Sunday afternoons.

The teams play in the fall and spring and the organization hosts many free rugby clinics throughout Monmouth County and is scheduled to hold weekly summer rugby camps through area rec programs in July. 

Check the organization’s website at www.jerseyshoreyouthrugby.org or its facebook page for more information.

• The Spring Rugby Fundraising Mixer will be held on Thursday night, May 11, from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at the Fair Haven Knights of Columbus Hall, Fair Haven Road. The $35 admission includes appetizers, beer, wine and soda.

The day will feature an exhibition match of the U16 Blue and Gold Division Boys, followed by the Boys HS Gold Division (Single School Division) and the Blue Division (Community Based) programs which will determine the 2017 NJ HS State Champions.

Also, an exhibition youth flag rugby match featuring kids from the Jersey Shore Youth Rugby Association. The RFH Youth Rugby Club will also participate in the competition.  

Match times are to be announced, but an afternoon start time is anticipated. Student ticket prices are $3 for advance purchase and $5 at the door.  Adult tickets are $6 for advance purchase and $8 at the door.  The snack shack will be open serving hot dogs, hamburgers, cold soda, candy, baked goods, etc.

Check out  www.jerseyshoreyouthrugby.org for more info about the championship games, youth rugby programs in the area, and to purchase tickets.