Video: Cedar Rapids Headhunters rugby practice

The Cedar Rapids Headhunters is a local rugby team. The Headhunters just made club history by winning the Midwest Final Four Division III Championship on May 1-2 at St. Charles, Ill. They also qualified for the national championship tournament and play in Columbia, S.C., May 22-23. The Headhunters open with Triad Rugby Club (N.C.).

Here some video from their practice earlier this month. They run up the field, starting with a throw-in. Watch the organized chaos that ensues.

The game, at least these practice drills, moves at a frantic pace. Backward passes, kicks, runs, whatever it takes to move the ball down the field. One of the things that stands out, is their passion for the sport. They work hard and can get beat up, but there aren't any paychecks or pep rallies. Just a little sponsorship from local businesses, including Fleck's Distributing in Cedar Rapids.

The players come from all over and all walks of life. They are drawn together by rugby, which leads to a strong bond between the players.