For the majority of people all they know about rugby is that it is rough and can be violent. There is another side to rugby that you cannot know until you become a player. It is a game of magnificent skill and athleticism that is rare in other avenues of sports leagues today. First, it is important to know that a regular rugby match lasts for 80 minutes and you will spend nearly that entire time running. This is why you will notice every rugby player to be in impeccable shape; you have to be in order to play this sport.
Rugby is a game based on strength, agility and endurance. As a potential player you have to work on your endurance if you plan to take part in this sport and last an entire game. In the game of rugby there are two main groups, backs and forwards. Generally, the backs need to be incredibly agile and quick thinking and the forwards needs to be heavy and strong men in order to protect the backs. It is important to find which position best fits you.
As you begin to learn the basics you will quickly see that the ball is faster than you so why not learn how to let it do the work for you. From the beginning of your career it is important to work diligently on your ball handling skills. In the past rugby was more about attacking your opponent than handling the ball but today it is more about passing to get the point. Fumbling the ball can immediately stop and ruin what could have been a successful play, so practice your throwing and catching with someone to help improve your skills on a regular basis.
Did you know that American football has got tackling all wrong? According to the legends and professionals within the game of rugby you don’t need padding and tons of equipment to tackle a man. Only a true rugby coach can teach you the proper techniques of a good rugby tackle and if you can master this you can master anything within the game. Don’t allow your fear to take over a full contact situation. It is the players who are not fully committed to their tackles that often end up being injured.
Lastly, unlike all the other sports on TV today referees within a rugby match are treated with respect. As a player and as a coach, there is no arguing with a referee. They have been given the job to ensure a fair and safe match and they take this job seriously. Start searching for a team near you and take the opportunity to ask players and coaches questions so you can learn more and more about the sport; this is how professional rugby players are born.