Knowledge and FAQ's Page
Below is an introduction to rugby terms and defintions.
Below that is a list of FAQ's regarding rugby that all parents and players should read and a link to the laws of the game.
New! Spectator Guide from USA Rugby > read
New! Rookie Guidelines - compliments of men's and women's Coach Tony Brown, Vassar College > read
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| Term |
Definition |
| Advantage |
A method of referee. The referee allows the game to proceed uninterrupted as long as the ball is in play and there are no major infractions. Play can continue after an infraction if the non-offending team gains an advantage. |
| Blind Side |
The side nearest to the touch line. |
| Drop Kick |
A technique where the ball is dropped to the ground and as it bounces back up, it is kicked. |
| Dummy |
A technique where one pretends to pass the ball. |
| Free Kick |
Kick where a score may be made. Can be taken as a place kick, drop kick, or if no score is attempted, a punt. |
| Grubber Kick |
A kick technique where the ball bounces along the ground. |
| Knock-on |
Where a player propels the ball toward the opponent's goal line. This results in a penalty. |
| Line-out |
A play where two single file lines are formed by both teams after the ball goes out of touch. A player from the team that did not take it our throws the ball back in from the touch line between the two lines. This brings the ball back into play and determines which team receives the ball. |
| Maul |
A loose formation brought around a player who is still in possession of the ball and has no been brought to the ground. |
| Obstruction |
Also called blocking. Where a player gets in the way of an opponent who is chasing the ball. This results in a penalty. |
| Off-side |
Generally when a player is in front of the ball when it was played last by a team member. A penalty occurs if a player is off-side and obstructs an opponent, plays the ball or is within 10 meters (10 yards) of an opponent playing the ball. |
| Penalty Kick |
Kick awarded to the non-offending team after a penalty occurs. |
| Place Kick |
A kick technique where the ball is placed on the ground before being kicked. |
| Punt Kick |
A kick technique where the ball is dropped and kicked before it touches the ground. |
| Ruck |
A loose formation created around a free ball or a player who has been brought to the ground. |
| Scrummage (scrum) |
A tight formation between the two opposing teams in readiness for the ball to be put in the tunnel between the two front rows and brought out into play. |
| Try |
Method of scoring worth 5 points by touching the ball down in the opponent's goal area. |
Knowledge and FAQ's
Is Rugby dangerous?
No more so than any other contact sport. There are less injuries then football, lacrosse or soccer. Getting extra yardage in Rugby is not important but rather ball possession. The lack of padding means that you will learn a new way of tackling. Rugby tackles are not football style head-on-collisions, but rather wrapping the opponent's legs so that his own momentum carries him to the ground.
How fit do I have to be to play?
There is a lot of running in Rugby, and unlike American football, not a lot of starting and stopping. You will run in practice, but you should also involve yourself in plenty of cardio off the field. Weight training is also a good idea, but you should consult your physician before beginning any weight training program.
Why hasn't Rugby gained the popularity in the US as it has in Europe and the Southern Hemisphere?
Surprisingly, Rugby is the fastest growing boys & girls club sport on college and high school campuses nationwide. Some universities have even begun offering Rugby scholarships.
I don't know how to play rugby. Will this mean that I will have to ride the bench all season?
Absolutely not. The leagues are made up of players just like you, many of whom have never played before. The coaches take it slow and you'll learn the game as the season progresses.
What do I need to do to sign up?
Particular clubs have varying sign up procedures, but all participants, regardless of club affiliation, must fill out a "Certified Individual Player Participant" {Cipp} Form through USA Rugby. This registers the player with their particular club.
What do I need to play?
Not much. Most clubs have uniforms for players to wear/purchase. Players will need rugby or soccer style boots or football cleats (but no front toe cleat allowed) and a mouth piece. For practices, usually sweats, shorts and rugby shirt are worn. If you wish to purchase rugby gear, there are several sites from which to purchase items (see links below).
http://www.rugbyimports.com (rugby gear)
http://www.rugbystore.com (rugby gear)
http://www.planetrugby.com (world rugby news)
How much does it cost to play?
Particular clubs have varying dues requirements. CIPP registry is $20 for youth players. This is included in your registration fee of $145 which will cover game jerseys (returned after each game), shorts, mouthpieces & socks.
My parents want to know if there is insurance?
Properly registered clubs have liability insurance only, through USA Rugby's program. Medical insurance is not available through the Union and players' parents must be responsible for having their own health insurance coverage.
Here is a link to the laws of the game.
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