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Old Glory DC Brings Big-Time Rugby to Fairfax

By Tania Hossain
Old Glory DC's Tevita Naqali is lifted up for a "line out" as the ball is inbounded against NOLA Rugby Club. The match was played at George Mason Stadium on May 13, 2025. Old Glory DC won the match 27-14. (Image courtesy Old Glory DC)

Rugby fans across the DMV have something huge to cheer about: Old Glory DC is officially bringing all 2026 home games to George Mason University in Fairfax—and the move promises to energize not just the team, but the entire region.

“This is a milestone in our community. The first pro sports team in Fairfax since 1976. When the NASL’s Washington Diplomat played at Woodson High School,” city resident, Chap Petersen continued “as a long-time rugby player, I am very excited to see OG drop anchor here.”

Fresh off back-to-back playoff runs and stepping confidently into its eighth Major League Rugby season, Old Glory is doubling down on community, accessibility, and regional growth. Their new home at George Mason Stadium offers the perfect backdrop for that mission: a natural Bermuda grass pitch, a 4,500-seat bowl built for atmosphere, and a field-level VIP area that puts fans closer than ever to the action. 

One of the most exciting aspects of this partnership is how it opens the door to even more fans across D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Conveniently located just off the Vienna/GMU Metro stop, George Mason Stadium is an easy ride on the Orange Line, followed by a free CUE Bus shuttle straight to the gates. Drivers can celebrate too—tailgating is on, offering a festive, rugby-loving atmosphere before every match.

And the fan experience is getting a boost. Expect an expanded Beer Garden, upgraded food and beverage concessions, and a vibrant Merchant’s Row packed with local pop-up vendors from across the region. Game day won’t just be a match—it’ll be a community festival.

Old Glory leaders have long envisioned a deeper partnership with George Mason, and now that dream comes to life. “Old Glory DC is excited to bring professional rugby to George Mason University,” said Chris Dunlavey, Chairman of Old Glory DC. He noted that the team has trained at Mason for years, making this move feel like a natural next step in connecting with students, local businesses, and fans.

George Mason’s Director of Athletics, Marvin Lewis, echoed the excitement: hosting Old Glory on campus aligns with Mason’s mission to offer world-class sports experiences while fostering community spirit across Northern Virginia.

Fairfax City is already gearing up to welcome rugby fans with open arms. Stephanie Gerson, tourism specialist for Fairfax City Economic Development, celebrated the opportunity to connect visitors with the charm of Old Town Fairfax—encouraging supporters to stay, dine, and explore before and after matches.

This isn’t just a venue change; it’s a bold investment in regional sports culture. With enthusiastic partners—from local government to campus leadership to neighborhood businesses—Old Glory DC is primed to grow the game in meaningful, sustainable ways.

Get ready to talk about ruck, maul, and scrum during a season filled with unforgettable fan moments both on and off the pitch. Rugby fans can purchase tickets by visiting the Old Glory Dc website.

Author

  • Tania Hossain is the editor, publisher, and co-owner of The Independent News Press, a consortium of local print and online newspapers in Virginia. She focuses on writing about community issues and advocates for local newspapers, both print and online, especially in the age of Ai from selfie filters to betting on military strikes.  A Merrifield resident, she is a keen backyard gardener, loves forest bathing and a curious biohacker, believing that proactive health keeps one out of the costly illness industry. Inspired by Oprah Winfrey's O Magazine launch, she feels fortunate to be running this newspaper.

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