Rugby combines endurance, strength, and a casual atmosphere filled with players of all shapes and sizes.

For the Penn State rugby club, a.k.a. The Happy Barbarians, summer is a time to learn the fundamentals of the game, stay in shape, and have a good time.

The team convenes on Monday and Wednesday nights from 6 till 8 on the fields behind the Recreation Building.

" It is a good time to be introduced without the pressures of fall. It is a great time to develop skills," Coach Don Ferrel said.

Ferrel has been coaching men's rugby at Penn State for six years, and during the past year, he has been assisting with the women's team.

Both teams take part in several local and away tournaments every year.

On June 29, the men and women's teams participated in The Harrisburg Tournament. Each team took first in their divisions, competing amongst sixteen other clubs. The teams went 10-2 during the competition.

" A great day of fun, comradely, and top notch rugby was had by all," Ferrel said.

In the summer time the club plays a version of rugby known as "Sevens." Each team is comprised of three forwards and four backs, including a scrum half, which is the equivalent of a quarterback in football. The ball is passed between players. They have six chances to make a goal by kicking or running the ball forward. The ball, however, can only be passed backward. The summer version, unlike regular season, is only two-hand touch as opposed to full contact in the fall and is divided into two seven-minute halves.

The team views summer as a learning time when experienced players can walk new members through the game. "We encourage all athletes," said club President Adam Zilcoski.

At the beginning of practice there were seven players present, but by the end more than 25 people came to join -- including a big and friendly Mastiff named Shakis.