Rugby

Rugby is one of the many favourite sports of the British. It began in the 19th century in England.


One reason why it is so appealing is that despite the size, shape, age or gender there is a level of rugby for everyone.

Rugby and American Football have a lot of similarities but they also have many differences. One thing the British like to point out is that they don't wear the pads that the American Footballers wear. The rugby players often get a condition of cauliflower ear.

I won't go into too much detail about rugby as I don't know very much and wouldn't want to give false information. Here are the few things I do know:
  • The kicker also plays in the rest of the game unlike in football where sometimes its the only thing that they do.
  • A match lasts 80-minutes.
  • The team consists of 15 players and 6 substitutes.
  • The goals are H shaped.
  • When they get into the group for the ball, it is called a scrum.
  • The way to score the highest points (5 points) is carrying a ball over the try line (where the H goal is on). Then they get a chance for a conversion kick (2 points) which is the same as a try after a touchdown.
  • At anytime any player can pick up the ball and drop kick it through the H goal and if successful, they will be awarded 3 points.
  • The last way to score a goal through a penalty kick. The referee will award a penalty kick where they can choose to kick it for a goal, kick it to move it towards the touchline or run again. A penalty kick is awarded 3 points.
  • Tackling is a bit different in rugby. If a player is tackled, he can get up and run if he can. The play doesn't stop like in football.
If you would like to find out more, go here. I have attended a few rugby games and have really gotten into it and I am sure you will too. I do suggest that you go with someone who knows the game to explain it to you.

You also do not have to head to London to see a game. Many local towns have rugby clubs so you can go cheer them on and will be much cheaper!

All the Best!

American to Britain