Rugby is a fast-paced, physical game that requires considerable skill. To succeed, players must be able to handle the ball, run quickly and make tackles; plus they must possess the ability to catch, pass and kick.
Playing rugby is an excellent way to stay fit and have some fun! As it’s a team sport, you must be able to work with your teammates to help them reach their objectives.
On a standard rugby team, there are 15 players and each has been assigned an assigned number that corresponds to their position. Forwards are numbered one through eight while backs are nine through fifteen.
Each team has a scrum-half, or captain, who oversees play and assists in securing the ball. He or she calls out plays and directs play accordingly.
The game is played on a rectangular field of grass, usually 70 meters (230 feet) by 100 meters (330 feet). Each team defends one end and attempts to score points through tries and goals.
A try is scored when a player runs into the goal-line while possessing the ball and touches it down on the ground, similar to a touchdown in football. Five points are awarded to the winning team.
Conversions are also possible when a try is scored, giving the scoring team an extra point by kicking the ball through opponents’ goal posts. Two points are awarded to the winning team for every successful conversion attempt and three points for any goal kick outside of a conversion attempt.
Penalty kicks can be awarded when an opposing team commits a foul. These may be taken from the spot of the foul or anywhere along a line stretching back from that point parallel to the touchline.
After a penalty kick, the attacking team resumes play from where the ball touched down. If it crosses over onto another side of the field or goes out of play altogether, a throw-in is made.
Players must exercise caution when using their legs to tackle an opponent or trip them up; doing so could result in serious injuries.
Correct tackling is paramount in rugby, as it helps protect yourself and prevents injury. A proper tackle involves wrapping your arms around an opponent before falling to the ground with them. If not done correctly, it will be considered an illegal dump tackle and the opponent will receive a free kick.
As a forward, having good hands and the ability to pass the ball accurately is paramount. This skill set is essential in rugby as it helps you gain possession of the ball and use it effectively for scoring points.
Running is an integral part of the game, as it enables you to move quickly, start and stop quickly, and maintain momentum for extended periods without getting tired. Catching the ball, either so that you can pass it to a teammate or run it to the other end of the field, is crucial.
