Julius Melnikas and Domantas Stravinskas will represent the Lithuanian men’s rugby-15 national team

Vilnius rugby academy Once Again Has Its Representatives in the National Team

This is an important moment in the history of the Vilnius Rugby Academy. The last time a player from VRA was invited to the men’s R15 national team was Augustinas Terleckas, who represented Lithuania for seven years as a starting player in the number 1 position, playing his last match for the team in 2020. After a five-year break, the academy once again has its representatives in the national squad.

Domantas Stravinskas, who will play as number 12 in the upcoming match, and Julius Melnikas, who will wear number 11, already have international experience from the youth national team: in 2016, both players represented the Lithuanian U18 Rugby-15 team (position No. 6 – Domantas; position No. 4 – Julius). In addition, Domantas became the European Conference 1 Champion in 2017 (position No. 8).

The Rugby Journey – From Eighth Grade to National Team Jerseys

Both Domantas and Julius started playing rugby back in the eighth grade – during the 2013/2014 school year. From their very first practices, they stood out for their determination, eagerness to improve, and strong sense of teamwork.

Today, both players are an integral part of the Vilnius Rugby Academy team.

Within the academy, Julius usually plays as number 15, while Domantas plays as number 10 or 12. Their duo on the field is well-coordinated – the players understand each other perfectly and make excellent use of each other’s strengths.

Context for the Lithuanian National Team – First Time Playing Against Poland at Home

The Lithuanian Men’s Rugby-15 National Team has faced Poland three times so far – with Poland winning each match. However, on October 25 in Šiauliai, there will be a special occasion: for the first time ever, this matchup will take place in Lithuania. It will be a historic moment, as our national team seeks to rewrite the story of these encounters and claim their first victory.

Federation’s Perspective – A New Generation in the National Team

According to the Lithuanian Rugby Federation, the men’s Rugby-15 national team played its first official match on May 1, 1993, in Berlin against Germany. Between 2006 and 2010, the team achieved an impressive winning streak of 18 consecutive victories – a then-world record.

Currently, the Federation is placing great emphasis on youth integration into the national team and on strengthening rugby clubs across the country.

A Motivating Achievement

This call-up is not only a personal achievement for Domantas and Julius, but also a recognition of the Vilnius Rugby Academy. After a long break, rugby from the capital is once again visible on the national stage, inspiring both the academy community and young players dreaming of wearing the Lithuanian national jersey.

We congratulate Domantas Stravinskas and Julius Melnikas on their selection to the Lithuanian national team – wishing them success on the field, strong performances, and many new victories, both individually and as a team.