Going to college is a whole new and exciting world. Among the many adventures and opportunities it offers you, there is also the chance to try out a new sport, such as rugby.
For beginners, rugby is a challenging and complicated game to play. However, apart from the physical benefits of playing rugby, it's a delightful and rewarding sport. For all those college students thinking of trying their hand at rugby, there are seven tips to help you start playing, stay safe and improve your skills.
Before you start playing, it helps to know some basics of how to play and what the game is about. Rugby is a team ball game played by two teams of 15 (in some cases 13) players. The objective is to advance an oval ball over a line on the opposite side of the field, gaining points while maintaining certain formations and passing only laterally or backwards. Learning the basics of the sport, including the ruck, maul, scrum and lineout, will help you enjoy the game more and play it more safely.
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Rugby is a sport where safety is of great importance. Therefore, as a player, you want the correct gear to feel safe on the field. Below is a table showing the gear that every player must have and its purpose:
|
Mouthguard |
Protects teeth and reduces the risk of concussions |
|
Cleats |
Provides traction on grass and mud |
|
Padded Clothing |
Protects against impacts with padded undergarments |
|
Rugby Shorts |
Offers mobility and comfort, suitable for play |
Ensure that all the gear you use fits to provide the best protection and make you feel more comfortable in the game. A good fit not only increases safety but makes you play better.
Learn to play touch rugby first to get a feel for the sport. Touch rugby has all the essential elements of the full-contact game without the tackling. It is an ideal way to ease into the sport, learn the game's flow, and practice running and passing drills without the impact and collisions of full-contact rugby.
Rugby demands excellent fitness, including cardiovascular health, strength, and agility. To prepare effectively:
These steps will help you develop the physical capabilities needed for rugby.
You will be taught to tackle at some point, so part of your training should be to do it safely. You can attend special training sessions on tackling techniques and how to tackle without hurting anyone, and never attempt tackling without being taught first. You should know how to tackle someone and get tackled; keep your head out of the tackle; go into the tackle with your shoulders and arms in the right place; fall without hurting yourself.
Watching professional rugby matches is the most effective way to develop your expertise and enthusiasm for the game. Professional players will teach you how to strategize, position yourself and work as a team. It might also help keep you connected to the larger rugby community.
Finally, the best way to learn rugby is to join a college team or local club. It gives you regular practice sessions, coaching and a team atmosphere. You’ll get to know people who share your interests and might even form friendships, which is an excellent way of being supported when you’re starting.
College is a time of exploration and the first opportunity for many student-athletes to play rugby. If you’re new to the sport or considering trying it out, these tips will help ease you in so that you can enjoy yourself on the field while focusing on safety and skill. Rugby is not machismo on the field; it’s strategy, teamwork, and respect. Tie up your boots, join the team and enjoy one of the most thrilling sports in the world. Whether you play for fun or walk away from it with a long list of more competitive accolades, you’re in for a wild ride and a robust college experience with memories that could last a lifetime.