As with most of the other communities in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal, organized team sports were a crucial part of the community's social scene in the late-1800s and into the early 20th century. Shanly was home to a rugby team during this time, with their own designated and maintained rugby field located on a local family's property. Tournaments or matches were played against teams from neighbouring communities or townships which drew crowds from throughout the area, and were considered significant community events. The results of the matches were widely reported in newspapers from Edwardsburgh/Cardinal and the nearby townships.