Palmer Rugby logo fading into black and white historical rugby game photo.

Palmer Rugby

Spreading the Word of Chiropractic Through Athletic Excellence

Palmer College of Chiropractic, founded in 1897 by D.D. Palmer, is the oldest and largest chiropractic college in the world. Dr. David D. Palmer, grandson of D.D. Palmer, started Palmer’s rugby program in 1960. Since then, Palmer rugby has been a leader in the profession, graduating the most successful Doctors of Chiropractic who practice all around the world.

Between 1960 and 1980, the men’s team won multiple collegiate championships. In the ’80s, the team moved to the senior club division of USA Rugby. The club has won multiple Midwest Rugby Union championships and advanced to the USA Rugby National Championships four times. 

The women’s rugby program was established in 2004 by Dr. Tracy Francis-Nguyen. The club has become a regular powerhouse in the Midwest having won the last two Midwest Rugby Union championships and reaching the USA Club Rugby National Championships for the first time in 2022.  

Our teams compete at the highest level and are proud of being the only rugby teams in the country fully rostered with future Doctors of Chiropractic. 

Two teams of men's rugby players running on pitch.

Men's Schedule and Roster

View the men’s 2024 schedule and team roster.

Men's Schedule and Roster
Two teams of women's rugby players running on pitch.

Women's Schedule and Roster

View the women’s 2024 schedule and team roster.

Women's Schedule and Roster
Two women's rugby teams high fiving on grass pitch.

Prospective Rugby Students

Interested in playing rugby as a Palmer student? Find out all you need to know.

Prospective Rugby Students
Group photo of 1992 Palmer Men's Rugby team covered in mud.

Rugby Alumni

Connect with rugby alumni, view job postings and upcoming network opportunities.

Rugby Alumni