Rugby for Beginners: Your Quick Start Guide
So you’ve heard the roar of a scrum and want to give rugby a go? Great choice! This guide breaks down everything you need to know before you step onto the pitch. No jargon, just plain advice you can use right away.
What You Need to Know First
Rugby is played with two teams of 15 players each (or 13 in league). The main aim? Carry or kick the ball over the opponent’s try line and touch it down – that’s a try, worth five points. After a try you get a chance to kick for two extra points.
The ball can be passed only backwards or sideways; forward passes are a foul. If you’re tackled, you must release the ball immediately so play can continue. This creates the fast‑moving, continuous action that makes rugby so exciting.
Key Positions and What They Do
Forwards – the big, strong players who contest the ball in scrums and line‑outs. They do the heavy lifting and win possession.
Backs – usually quicker and more agile. They exploit space, run big lines, and score the tries.
Don’t worry about memorising every position right away. Start by learning the basic roles of a prop (front row forward), a hooker (middle of the front row), a scrum‑half (links forwards to backs), and a full‑back (last line of defence). Once you’re comfortable, you’ll pick up the rest naturally.
Here are a few practical steps to get you playing:
- Find a local club or university team. Most clubs run “learn‑to‑play” sessions on weekends.
- Grab a basic pair of rugby boots with studs – they give you grip on grass.
- Wear a mouthguard. Rugby is contact‑heavy, and a simple guard prevents nasty teeth injuries.
- Practice passing and catching with a friend. Short, accurate passes are the foundation of good play.
- Watch a match and notice how the ball moves. Pay attention to how the forwards set up a scrum and how the backs create space.
If you’re looking for easy reads, check out the beginner‑friendly posts on our site, like “How many rugby players are on the field?” and “Why do rugby fans dislike French refs?” – they answer common questions in plain language.
Remember, the biggest mistake new players make is trying to be perfect right away. Focus on staying safe, listening to your coach, and having fun. Rugby is a team sport; the more you trust your teammates, the faster you’ll improve.
Ready to lace up? Grab a ball, head to the nearest pitch, and give it a go. You’ll soon feel the rush of a good tackle and the thrill of a try. Welcome to the world of rugby – enjoy the ride!
Could I learn to play rugby at age 35?
- Aug, 3 2023
- 0
Well, guess what folks? In the grand adventure that is my life, I've uncovered a startling revelation - it's possible to pick up rugby at 35! Call me crazy, but I've got proof to back this up. Age is just a number, right? So, dust off those old sneakers, stretch out those muscles (you'll find some you forgot existed), and let's hit the field together! Because if this 35-year-old body can survive learning rugby, then trust me, anyone can!