Scarborough Planning Board greenlights construction of Portland Rugby Football Club’s fields

The Portland Rugby Football Club plans to construct two recreational rugby fields alongside supporting facilities.

The Scarborough Planning Board has approved a proposal by the Portland Rugby Football Club to construct two recreational rugby fields along with ancillary facilities. The endeavor, located at 122 Two Rod Road, entails the development of two rugby fields complemented by walkways, access roads, a clubhouse, bleachers, and parking facilities.

Concerns were raised regarding potential historical remains and water supply in December. The applicant addressed these concerns by providing detailed documentation from a licensed well driller and affirming adherence to state laws regarding the discovery of remains on the construction site.

The Portland Rugby Club said it has wanted a permanent home for its activities for a long time. With the acquisition of property at 122 Two Rod Road two years ago, this dream is closer to reality. The proposed facilities include both large and small fields, a clubhouse, and bleacher seating to accommodate spectators.

Notable features of the project include widened driveways for improved access, stadium lighting for night games, and provisions for ample parking, including spaces for buses. Plans for a practice field, expandable in the future, were also outlined, with attention given to addressing concerns raised during the board meeting regarding parking arrangements.

Civil engineer Jodi Dube-O’Neal outlined the project’s compliance with environmental regulations, including permits from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection. Additionally, the project owners committed to collaborating with local authorities to preserve native plant species and mitigate environmental impact.

“You did a good job with the burial sites,” Planning Board Chair Rachel Hendrickson said. “You found info that I didn’t know was out there. I appreciate all the effort you took and your willingness to continue to follow state law and Scarborough’s wishes.” After review with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and much surveying of the property, no historic remains have been found on the property.

Addressing concerns about lighting and traffic, the project team presented findings from traffic impact studies, indicating minimal disruption to local traffic patterns and no adverse effects on road safety. Moreover, club representatives said measures will be taken to minimize light pollution and ensure compliance with sight distance requirement.

A number of residents expressed support for the club’s initiatives and the benefits it will bring to the community. “It is great for the community and town,” Mike Connelly said. “I think benefits for the community outweigh any negatives. And it is preserving green space. Sports are important. And more space will only benefit our community.”

“Congratulations. We Look forward to having you in Scarborough,” Hendrickson said. The board unanimously approved the project, subject to certain conditions including the payment of traffic impact fees, finalization of site plans, and execution of a stormwater maintenance agreement with the town.

Portland RFC - 2024 Lobster Dip
A huge success!

Thanks to all dippers representing Portland RFC in this years dip, We helped the Maine Special Olymics raise over $221,000 this year. Out team finished in 4th place with a total contribution of $8,765.65. Way to go gang! Thanks everyone for helping out.

You can still donate and view our team page at: PRFC Lobster Dip 2024 - Team Page

Portland RFC - AGM Sunday 1/7/24 - Gritty’s Freeport 3PM

Please join us for the PRFC Annual General Meeting at 3 PM on Saturday 1/7/24 at Gritty's in Freeport. This will be our first Annual General Meeting of the combined Club/Corporation for our Team and Social Members. We will be sharing club business, field progress and financial information. We also plan to have a formal Q&A opportunity. If you have not yet become a Social Member – join up and come to our AGM!

PWRFC – Supporting Collegiate Women’s+ Rugby in Maine

As everyone knows, Saturday is a rugby day. Thus, PWRFC often has games at the same time as local colleges. However, when the stars align so that we can show our support for collegiate women’s+ rugby in Maine, we do so! Such was the case on Saturday, Nov. 4. Colby College contacted PWRFC to help with preparing for their league playoffs, and several PWRFC members gladly made the trek to Waterville to assist! Colby was extremely grateful, sending the thank you note linked below. . 

Colby Women’s Team Thankyou:  Link to Colby Thank You

The Irish Tour!

Portadown visited Portland from 8/9 - 8/13. They brought a total of 45 (25 Players, 20 Alikados).

Rory Best, Irish former rugby union player and captain of the Ireland national team from 2016 to 2019, reach out to Portadown RFC and Portland RFC. Reach out from Rory Best

Read about the Portadown Tour in the recent Beacon Newsletter

Position Opening: PWRFC Assistant/Forwards Coach

Portland Women’s Rugby Football Club (“PWRFC”) is seeking an Assistant/Forwards Coach beginning August 2023. This is an unpaid volunteer position, though related expenses such as coach training and certification, coach registration, and mileage are reimbursed up to $1,000 per year. Previous coaching experience is not required, but candidates with relevant experience will receive priority.

For the full position description, please see PWRFC Assistant/Forwards Coach Description.

Portland Old Girls monthly lunch

Calling all Portland Women's RFC Alumni! A monthly get-together to reconnect over lunch and conversation will begin this August 9th at Bruno's on Allen Avenue in Portland. Plan to arrive between 11:45am - 12:00pm. Date, time and location may change in future months depending on the group, but this gets us started! Can't wait to see everyone in August!

Portland RFC
Old Man in the Mountain

Congratulations to new Portland RFC Old Boys Team on a tremendous success with their first match in 13 +/- years. The Ancient Mariners made a very positive showing at the tournament with about 25 able bodied souls. The Ancient Mariners played two spirited matches against Amoskeag and South Shore. We would like to publish scores, but we didn't keep them. Both matches were filled with fun, pulled muscles and slow motion excitement.

Special thanks to Jerry Alves, Howie Chadbourne or Stu Dunlop for stepping up to lead this adventure. Also, additional thanks to Stu for his generous hosting of players and a post party drink up at the Wildcat Inn and Tavern in Jackson, NH. And finally, thanks to Richard Pfeffer for hosting the after match barbeque at the pitch. Nice work Richard.