Tres Arroyos Rugby & Hockey Club Celebrates 20 Years of Growth and Community Impact
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A thriving sports institution in argentina, teh Tres Arroyos Rugby & Hockey Club (TARHC) marked its 20th anniversary on March 18th, demonstrating sustained growth, a commitment too inclusivity, and a deep connection to the local community. Founded in 2005, the club has evolved from humble beginnings into a cornerstone of sporting and social life in Tres Arroyos.
From Itinerant Beginnings to a Dedicated Home
The club’s journey began with a nomadic existence, initially operating out of Fortín del polo before relocating to SMATA and then the Parents’ School property. According to club president Nicolás brüel, it was a long road to establishing a permanent base. “After a long search, we found the land that we have today, and it was a lot of work to get it to where it is indeed now,” he explained. The founders recognized the potential to foster both disciplines within a focused environment. A key objective from the outset was developing youth programs. “It was very important for us to form the training divisions, the children’s and youth teams,” Brüel emphasized. Currently, the club boasts approximately 50 young players across two youth categories, demonstrating a strong commitment to grassroots development.
Building a Community Beyond the Game
Beyond athletic prowess, TARHC prioritizes fostering a strong sense of community. The club actively cultivates a welcoming atmosphere for families, encouraging social interaction among players, parents, and supporters. “The idea is that the club has a lot of sporting and social life,” Brüel said. “It is essential that the house is full of fathers,mothers,kids who finish training and continue playing tricks,chatting or drinking mate.” This emphasis on camaraderie is further fueled by the growing popularity of rugby and hockey nationally, inspired by the success of teams like Los Pumas.
Expanding Reach with Claromecó Seven
TARHC’s influence extends beyond its local base through the Claromecó seven, a meaningful rugby sevens competition. The club assumed responsibility for the event in its 21st edition, after it was passed on by ‘Chango’ Conde and josé Seta, recognizing TARHC’s dedication to the sport. The club has since expanded the tournament to include youth, women’s, veterans, and field hockey branches, transforming it from a First Division event into a more inclusive celebration of the sport.
Sustained growth and future Investments
The club’s growth has been supported by key donations, notably a four-and-a-half-hectare land parcel gifted by the Pardo firm in 2016. Brüel recounted the gradual improvements made to the property, including the installation of lights and construction of the clubhouse. Currently, fundraising efforts are focused on completing the field hockey pitch, with 50% of the necessary materials already secured through a donation plan linked to advertising opportunities.
Remembering Carlos Álvarez: A Pillar of the Club
The TARHC community mourned the loss of Carlos Álvarez on August 17th, a beloved figure deeply ingrained in the club’s fabric. Brüel described Álvarez as embodying the purest values of rugby,always present at games and contributing behind the scenes. In a touching tribute, the club renamed its rugby field “Carlitos Álvarez Field,” and the family requested his ashes be kept at the club grounds. “For us, Carlitos will always be a very important guy for Tres Arroyos rugby,” Brüel stated.
A welcoming Invitation to Join the TARHC Family
Looking ahead, TARHC continues to extend an open invitation to the community. Brüel encourages individuals and families to experience the benefits of rugby and hockey firsthand. “We would love to be able to welcome you and bring your children,” he said. “From a distance it seems like a violent sport, but it is not. It is indeed a contact sport, but it is not violent, and in which values are learned and lifelong friendships are made.” The club emphasizes the importance of education, both on and off the field, fostering a holistic environment for personal and collective growth.
