International Rugby Comes to Konstanz: Boulder RFC (USA) vs. Bodensee United

International Rugby Comes to Konstanz: Boulder RFC (USA) vs. Bodensee United

On the weekend of October 25–27, 2025, Konstanz became the stage for international rugby, as the Boulder Rugby Football Club from Colorado, USA, concluded their European tour with two unforgettable days by the Bodensee.

The warm-up began on Friday evening, when the Konstanz players welcomed their American guests for what they humorously called a “joint training session” — not on the pitch, but at the Weinteufele Pub. Over a few cold beers and generous portions of Flammkuchen, both teams quickly broke the ice, sharing stories, laughs, and a first taste of the rugby friendship that would define the weekend.

The next day, the event kicked off with a fiercely contested Old Boys match, featuring veteran players from Bodensee United — a regional selection uniting Konstanz, St. Gallen, Tägerwilen, and Freiburg — facing the American tourists from Boulder. Despite the players’ years of experience — some well into their seventies — the game was played under full regulation rules, meaning real rugby with real tackles. The crowd loved it: physical, honest, and full of respect, it was proof that the rugby spirit never fades with age.

Then came the main international fixture, as the men’s teams of Bodensee United and Boulder RFC (Colorado, USA) clashed in a fast, competitive, and skillful encounter. Under the calm and fair officiating of Swiss referee François Molette, both matches were played in the finest spirit of rugby — no cards, no drama, just passion and fair play.

After the games, players and supporters enjoyed a refreshing dip in the lake, followed by a lively barbecue that turned into a festive evening of celebration. As night fell, the clubhouse transformed into a nightclub-style party, where players from both sides danced shoulder to shoulder to classics like Free Bird and Country Home — a highlight that even the Boulder players later called unforgettable.

In a heartfelt message after returning home, Charlie Kang, President of Boulder RFC, praised the “world-class hospitality” of Rugby Club Konstanz, calling the weekend “an incredible example of friendship and sportsmanship across continents.” He also extended an open invitation for our team to visit Boulder, Colorado, in the future.

For Rugby Club Konstanz and our Bodensee United partners, the event represented far more than just a pair of rugby matches. It was a celebration of international friendship, community, and the unifying power of rugby — proof that our sport truly transcends borders.

Rugby in Konstanz is thriving — and now, proudly international.