Who Are We?
Practice Info
Match Schedule
Bingham Cup 2008
Upcoming Events
Club Store
Introduction to Rugby
Rugby is an impact sport. The contact, while vigorous, is much less dangerous than in American football since there is no blocking, no rigid protective equipment allowed, and there are stringent rules on tackling. The emphasis on possession and the requirement that only allows contact near the ball decreases the number of physical collisions. Dirty, or dangerous, play is not allowed by the laws, nor is it tolerated by the players. Rugby is still considered "a sport of ruffians and thugs played by gentlemen." Many players consider the sportsmanship aspect of the game its most important and significant attribute
The Game
A full-length rugby field, known as a "pitch," is approximately 100 meters long by 70 meters wide with a 20 meter try (end) zone. Many rugby fields in America measure 100 yards long by 75 yards wide, with try zone areas of 10 to 20 yards reflecting the tendency to use football fields. The object of the game is obvious -- outscore your opponent. A player with the ball may advance the ball by running, kicking, or passing the ball. He may kick it forward, but may only pass the ball laterally or behind him. Other members of the team in possession of the ball must stay behind the ball to participate in the play. There is no blocking for the ball carrier. Any player on the pitch may run with the ball. The opponents may tackle the ball carrier at any time. Tackles must be made with the arms wrapped around the opponent's body below the shoulders. A player may not leave his feet to make a diving tackle or to hurdle an opponent. Above the shoulder tackles, and other tackles deemed to be dangerous, are against the laws and are severely penalized.
|
|
