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What is rugby?
Rugby football is a team sport that combines elements of American football and soccer--in fact, American football was originally derived from rugby. However, unlike football players, rugby players: wear a minimum of protective equipment; are not allowed to block for a ballcarrier; enjoy much more freedom of action on the field (everyone needs to be able to tackle, pass, and run with the ball); are not allowed to pass the ball forward; and must be in much better cardiovascular condition. Rugby is a fast-paced sport that has many fewer stoppages in play than American football. 15 players take the field for each team with one referee officiating. Points are scored by placing the ball down beyond an opponent's tryline (goalline), converting kicks after a successful "try," and kicking drop-kicks or penalty kicks (similar to a field goal). For more information on this great game, check out one of our featured "rugby links" and come out to practice!
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Can I still come out and play, even though the season has already started?
ABSOLUTELY! You are welcome to come out and join our club at any time during the season or off-season. Increasingly, there is no real off-season in rugby anyway, as pre-season matches and Summer 7s has lengthened our opportunities to enjoy the finest sport in the world...though we do take months off at various times during the year.
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What kind of sports background is helpful in playing rugby?
Sports experience of any sort is helpful, because people who have played sports tend to be in better shape and have usually trained within a team concept...and rugby is perhaps the ultimate team sport. Athletes who have previously competed in football and/or soccer will recognize similarities between these sports and rugby, but rugby is a unique sport with its own rules. However, sports experience is not absolutely necessary to play rugby.
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Do I have to be big or fast to play rugby?
No. One of the best features of rugby football is that everyone has a position he or she can play, regardless of physical ability or body type. Small, fast players are more suited for certain positions, while bigger, slower players will thrive in others. We will find a place for you!
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Is rugby a dangerous sport?
Yes and no. Rugby is no more dangerous than American football, boxing, or many martial arts...in fact, several studies have shown that rugby is safer, particularly with regard to head and neck injuries (though of course these can still happen). This is because rugby players are (ideally) taught to tackle with proper form and are not tempted to use a helmet as a weapon. In addition, knee, leg, and ankle injuries are at least as common in sports such as basketball and soccer than rugby. This being said, injuries in rugby do happen, particularly among players who are not in good physical condition. Rugby-specific training, development of muscular strength, and cardiovascular fitness are essential for prevention of injury as well as good performance. Finally, cuts and bruises (along with minor strains) are common in rugby, though these lessen as a player's body becomes accustomed to the physical nature of the sport.
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How much does it cost to play?
Each player must pay club dues--these pay for our league entry, our referees, field maintenance, and a host of other expenses. For dues rates, please contact a club administrator. Players are also generally expected to help pay for the post-game meal for our opponents. All players need to purchase a mouthpiece, shorts, and socks--typically a total of around $30. Jerseys are supplied by the club. Players must also buy rugby boots, though soccer boots often work out fine. The costs of these vary widely, depending on style and quality. There are other miscellaneous expenses and types of equipment a player can buy, but these need not be excessive in cost.
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I've heard of rugby referred to as a "social sport." What does this mean?
Put simply, this means two things: that rugby players are encouraged to "leave it on the field"; and that rugby is a sport that often fosters intense comraderie between team members. By "leaving it on the field," we mean that, no matter what happens during a match, opposing teams socialize with each other afterwards. The hosting team is expected to provide a meal, and perhaps other entertainment, for the visitors as a show of respect, sportsmanship, and appreciation for the other team making the trip. At post-match events, the two teams often trade stories, talk about the game, sing songs, make speeches, and announce individual player awards. By comraderie, we mean that rugby, like any team sport, provides a venue where players play for each other and the team to reach a common goal. The experience of training, playing, and socializing together often builds lasting friendships.
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I'm interested in supporting the club, but I don't want to play. What can I do?
First of all, thank you for your support! We have many different types and levels of sponsorhip available. If nothing else, we would love to have you come out and watch our matches...or come out and have a run with us. We also participate in numerous events that involve the surrounding communities and the families of our supporters. Please contact one of our club officers for more information on how you can help us out.
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Is there anything else I need to know?
Once again, we want to emphasize that anyone is welcome to join our club. Please also note that if you practice, you will play. In Division II, there is often a "B" side match after the first game, where players who don't make the first team (or "A" side) get a chance to play. We believe that players who give their time to us deserve to play on Saturday. How much of a time commitment does it take to play rugby? We practice twice a week, on Tuesday and Thursday nights, and play on Saturdays. Players who can only make one practice may still be able to start on Saturday, but attendance at both practices is strongly encouraged. Our pre-season generally starts in November, with the league season beginning in mid-January and lasting to April. We also play 7-man rugby in the summer.
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