Rugby is a sport that is played by millions of people around the world. It is a physically demanding game that requires strength, speed, and agility. But what many people don’t know is that there are different types of rugby games, each with its own unique name. From sevens to tens, this comprehensive guide will explore the different names for rugby games and provide a better understanding of the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a new fan, this guide will help you navigate the world of rugby and its various game formats. So, get ready to learn about the exciting world of rugby and the different names for its games!
What is Rugby?
A Brief History of Rugby
Rugby is a physical and fast-paced sport that originated in England in the early 19th century. It is a game that is played by two teams, each consisting of 15 players, who compete against each other to score points by carrying the ball across the opponent’s goal line.
The sport was first played at Rugby School in Warwickshire, England, in 1823. The game was initially called “rugby football,” but over time, it developed into two distinct sports: rugby union and rugby league.
Rugby union is the more traditional form of the sport and is played widely in countries such as England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. It is governed by the International Rugby Board (IRB), which was established in 1879.
Rugby league, on the other hand, was developed in the northern English towns of Huddersfield, Wigan, and Bradford in the 1890s. It is played primarily in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. The sport is governed by the Rugby League International Federation (RLIF).
Despite their differences, both rugby union and rugby league share a common origin and many similarities in terms of rules and gameplay. Both sports have grown in popularity and are now played at the international level, with the Rugby World Cup being the pinnacle of achievement for national teams.
How Rugby Evolved into Different Forms
Rugby has a rich history that spans over a century and a half. It originated in England in the early 19th century as a variation of football. Over time, it evolved into different forms, each with its own set of rules and playing style.
One of the earliest forms of rugby was Rugby Football, which was played at Rugby School in Warwickshire, England. The game was played with 15 players on each side and was characterized by its emphasis on running with the ball and kicking.
Another significant evolution of rugby was the introduction of Rugby Union in 1871. This form of rugby was played by 15 players on each side and was governed by the International Rugby Board (IRB). The IRB established a set of rules that standardized the game and made it more popular around the world.
Rugby Union was further divided into two main forms in the early 20th century: Rugby League and Rugby Union. Rugby League was formed in 1895 and was played by 13 players on each side. It was initially played in the northern English counties and was characterized by its emphasis on attacking play and limited tackling.
Rugby Union, on the other hand, continued to be played by 15 players on each side and was more popular in the southern English counties. It was characterized by its emphasis on the set-piece, such as scrums and lineouts, and its traditional values.
Over time, other forms of rugby also emerged, such as Rugby Sevens, which is a shorter version of the game played with seven players on each side. This form of rugby is popular in many parts of the world and is played at international tournaments such as the Rugby World Cup Sevens.
In conclusion, rugby has evolved into many different forms over the years, each with its own set of rules and playing style. From Rugby Football to Rugby Union and Rugby League, the game has continued to evolve and adapt to changing times and cultural influences.
Different Names for Rugby Games
15-a-side Rugby
Overview
15-a-side Rugby, also known as Rugby Union, is one of the most popular forms of rugby played worldwide. The game is played by two teams, each consisting of 15 players, and is played on a rectangular field with H-shaped posts at each end. The objective of the game is to score points by carrying the ball over the opponent’s goal line or by kicking the ball through the opponent’s goalposts.
History
Rugby Union was first played in 1871, when a split occurred in the sport of Rugby Football due to a disagreement over the rules of the game. The new code of rules was drawn up by a group of former Rugby School pupils, and the first-ever match of Rugby Union was played between England and Scotland at Raeburn Place, Edinburgh, on March 27, 1871.
Rules
The rules of 15-a-side Rugby are designed to ensure fair play and to prevent injury to players. Some of the key rules include:
- The game is played with a ball that can be carried, kicked, or thrown.
- Players can only pass the ball laterally or backwards.
- The ball must be kicked from behind the goal line at every restart.
- A player can only be tackled if they have the ball or are clearly attempting to gain possession of the ball.
- If a player is tackled, they must release the ball immediately.
- If a player is in possession of the ball and is tackled to the ground, a scrum is formed.
- A player can only be replaced if they are injured or bleeding.
Tactics and Strategies
Rugby Union is a game that requires a combination of strength, speed, and skill. Some of the key tactics and strategies used in the game include:
- Running with the ball: Players must be able to run with the ball while evading tackles from the opposition.
- Passing: Players must be able to pass the ball accurately and quickly to avoid being tackled.
- Kicking: Players must be able to kick the ball accurately and with power to gain territory and score points.
- Scrums and lineouts: These are two forms of restart used in the game, and require a high level of skill and technique.
- Defense: Players must be able to tackle effectively and work together as a team to prevent the opposition from scoring.
Overall, 15-a-side Rugby is a fast-paced and physically demanding sport that requires a high level of skill and technique. Understanding the rules and tactics of the game is essential for players and spectators alike.
7-a-side Rugby
Sevens rugby, also known as 7-a-side rugby, is a variant of rugby union that is played with seven players on each team, as opposed to the traditional 15 players. This form of rugby is played on a smaller field and is known for its fast-paced and high-scoring nature.
One of the main differences between sevens rugby and traditional rugby is the number of players on the field. Instead of the usual 15 players, there are only seven players on each team. This means that there are fewer players to defend against and fewer players to coordinate with, which can make the game more challenging.
Another key difference is the size of the field. Sevens rugby is played on a smaller field than traditional rugby, which means that there is less space for players to move around and less room for error. This can make the game more physical and more demanding, as players must be more precise in their movements and more strategic in their decision-making.
Sevens rugby is also known for its fast-paced and high-scoring nature. With fewer players on the field, there is more space for players to run with the ball and more opportunities for tries to be scored. This makes the game more exciting for both players and spectators, as there is always something happening on the field.
Sevens rugby is often played in tournaments and is popular at both the amateur and professional levels. It is also an Olympic sport, with the World Rugby Sevens Series being the premier international competition.
Overall, sevens rugby is a variant of rugby union that is played with seven players on each team on a smaller field. It is known for its fast-paced and high-scoring nature and is popular at both the amateur and professional levels.
Touch Rugby
Touch rugby is a variation of rugby that is played without tackling. The main objective of the game is to score tries by touching the ball down on the ground behind the try line. The game is played with seven players on each team, and the rules are designed to promote a fast-paced, non-contact game.
The origins of touch rugby can be traced back to the 1950s in Australia, where it was first played as a way to introduce rugby to young players. The game quickly gained popularity, and today, it is played around the world, from community leagues to international competitions.
In touch rugby, the ball can be passed in any direction, and players can run with the ball. However, if a player is tackled, they must immediately release the ball. The game is played with a slightly smaller ball than the traditional rugby ball, which makes it easier to handle and pass.
One of the key differences between touch rugby and other forms of rugby is the lack of tackling. Instead, players simply touch the ball to the ground to end the play. This makes the game much safer, as there is less risk of injury from hard tackles.
Touch rugby is a great way to introduce people to the sport of rugby, as it is a non-contact version of the game that is easy to learn and play. It is also a popular game among fitness enthusiasts, as it provides a fun and challenging workout.
In summary, touch rugby is a non-contact version of rugby that is played without tackling. It is a great way to introduce people to the sport and is played around the world in community leagues and international competitions.
Tag Rugby
Tag Rugby is a variation of rugby that is designed to be played in a non-contact format. The game is played with the same basic rules as regular rugby, but with a few key differences.
- No Tackling: In Tag Rugby, players are not allowed to tackle their opponents. Instead, they must try to remove the ball from the opposing team’s possession by touching them with the ball.
- Tagging: Players can remove an opponent from the game by tagging them with the ball. When a player is tagged, they must exit the field and become a non-playing “server” for the rest of the game.
- Serving: Servers can re-enter the game by tagging a player on their team.
- Passing: Passing is allowed in Tag Rugby, and players can pass the ball to their teammates as many times as they like.
- Non-Contact: The game is designed to be played in a non-contact format, with the emphasis on skill and teamwork rather than physicality.
Tag Rugby is a popular choice for beginners and those looking to play a less physically demanding version of rugby. It is also often played as a fun, social game for players of all ages and abilities.
Tag Rugby is played with the same basic equipment as regular rugby, including a rugby ball, rugby boots, and a rugby uniform. The game is typically played on a standard rugby pitch, with the same dimensions and markings as a regular rugby field.
Tag Rugby is a great way to learn the basics of rugby, develop basic skills such as passing and catching, and have fun playing a sport that emphasizes teamwork and strategy.
Beach Rugby
Beach rugby is a variant of rugby union that is played on sand instead of a traditional grass field. It is a fast-paced and high-intensity game that is growing in popularity around the world. The rules of beach rugby are similar to those of traditional rugby union, but there are some key differences.
Equipment
Players wear standard rugby union equipment, including a mouthguard, boots, and a rugby ball. However, due to the sandy surface, players may choose to wear lighter clothing to improve their mobility.
Playing Field
The playing field for beach rugby is a sandy beach or a specially designed sand pitch. The pitch is typically rectangular in shape and is marked out with lines to indicate the boundaries and the halfway line.
Gameplay
Beach rugby is typically played with seven players on each team, with three forwards and four backs. The game is played in two halves of 20 minutes each, with a half-time break of five minutes.
Scoring
Like traditional rugby union, beach rugby is scored by crossing the try line with the ball. A try is worth five points, and a successful conversion after a try is worth two points.
Differences from Traditional Rugby Union
One of the main differences between beach rugby and traditional rugby union is the emphasis on passing and running. Due to the sandy surface, the ball may not travel as far or as accurately as it would on a grass field, so players must rely more on their running and passing skills.
Another difference is the increased emphasis on physicality. The sandy surface can make it more difficult to maintain balance and footing, so players must be more aware of their opponents and be prepared to tackle harder and more forcefully.
Overall, beach rugby is a fun and exciting variant of rugby union that offers a unique challenge for players and spectators alike.
Wheelchair Rugby
Wheelchair rugby is a sport that is played by individuals with physical disabilities. It is also known as “Murrayball” in honor of its inventor, Canadian engineer, and wheelchair rugby player, Trevor E. Mitchell. The sport combines elements of wheelchair basketball, ice hockey, and handball to create a fast-paced and highly competitive game.
Origins of Wheelchair Rugby
Wheelchair rugby was developed in the 1970s as a way for people with disabilities to participate in team sports. The first official game was played in Canada in 1977, and the sport has since grown in popularity around the world.
How to Play Wheelchair Rugby
Wheelchair rugby is played on a basketball court with two teams of four players each. The objective of the game is to score points by carrying or passing a 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) rubber ball across the opponent’s goal line. The game is played in two 20-minute halves, with a 10-minute halftime break.
The Rules of Wheelchair Rugby
The rules of wheelchair rugby are designed to ensure the safety of the players while promoting an exciting and competitive game. Some of the key rules include:
- Each player must have at least one hand on their wheelchair at all times.
- Players can push, pass, or dribble the ball using their feet or hands.
- Players can block opponents from the front or side, but not from behind.
- A player can carry the ball for a maximum of five seconds before passing or dribbling.
- The game is played with a 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) rubber ball.
Scoring in Wheelchair Rugby
Points are scored by carrying or passing the ball across the opponent’s goal line. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins. In the event of a tie, a sudden-death overtime period is played.
Popularity of Wheelchair Rugby
Wheelchair rugby is played in over 40 countries around the world and is a popular sport among people with physical disabilities. The sport has even been featured in the Paralympic Games since 1996.
Notable Wheelchair Rugby Players
Some notable wheelchair rugby players include:
- Joe Delaney, a Canadian player who won two gold medals at the Paralympic Games.
- David Lyons, an Australian player who won two gold medals at the Paralympic Games.
- Scott Sutcliffe, a British player who won two gold medals at the Paralympic Games.
In conclusion, wheelchair rugby is a fast-paced and highly competitive sport that is played by individuals with physical disabilities. The sport combines elements of several other sports to create a unique and exciting game that is enjoyed by players and spectators alike.
Other Variations of Rugby Games
While rugby union and rugby league are the most popular forms of rugby, there are several other variations of the sport that are played around the world. These games have their own unique rules and regulations, and are often played at the amateur or local level.
1. Touch Rugby
Touch rugby is a variation of rugby that is played without tackling. Instead, players attempt to touch their opponents with the ball in order to stop them from scoring. This version of the game is often played at the amateur level, and is popular in countries such as Australia and New Zealand.
2. Beach Rugby
Beach rugby is a variation of rugby that is played on sand. The game is played with a smaller ball, and the rules are generally the same as traditional rugby. Beach rugby is popular in countries such as Australia and New Zealand, and is often played as a recreational activity.
3. Tag Rugby
Tag rugby is a variation of rugby that is played with a smaller ball, and is played without tackling. Instead, players attach tags to their shorts, and must avoid being tagged by their opponents. This version of the game is often played at the amateur level, and is popular in countries such as Australia and New Zealand.
4. Mini Rugby
Mini rugby is a variation of rugby that is played by children. The game is played with a smaller ball, and the rules are generally the same as traditional rugby. Mini rugby is popular in countries such as Australia and New Zealand, and is often played as a recreational activity for children.
5. Wheelchair Rugby
Wheelchair rugby is a variation of rugby that is played by athletes with physical disabilities. The game is played with a larger ball, and the rules are generally the same as traditional rugby. Wheelchair rugby is popular in countries such as Australia and New Zealand, and is played at the international level.
6. Rugby Sevens
Rugby sevens is a variation of rugby that is played with seven players on each team. The game is played with a smaller ball, and the rules are generally the same as traditional rugby. Rugby sevens is popular in countries such as Australia and New Zealand, and is played at the international level.
In conclusion, there are several other variations of rugby games that are played around the world. These games have their own unique rules and regulations, and are often played at the amateur or local level.
Explanation of Each Variation
Rugby games are known by various names, each representing a distinct variation of the sport. It is essential to understand these differences to appreciate the nuances of each game. The following is a detailed explanation of each variation:
1. Rugby Union
Rugby Union is the most common and popular form of rugby played worldwide. It is governed by the World Rugby (WR) and is played by two teams with 15 players on each side. The game aims to score tries by grounding the ball behind the opponent’s goal line or kicking goals for points.
2. Rugby League
Rugby League is another popular form of rugby, predominantly played in Australia, New Zealand, and England. It is also governed by the WR and is played by two teams with 13 players on each side. The main difference between Rugby Union and Rugby League is the number of players and the rules regarding handling the ball.
3. Rugby Sevens
Rugby Sevens is a fast-paced, shorter version of rugby played by two teams with seven players on each side. It is played on a smaller field, and the game aims to score tries in a similar manner to Rugby Union. Rugby Sevens is a popular tournament format and is part of the Olympic Games.
4. Touch Rugby
Touch Rugby is a non-contact variation of rugby, where the players only have to touch the ball to the ground to score a try. It is played by two teams with six players on each side and is popular as a recreational and social sport.
5. Tag Rugby
Tag Rugby is another non-contact variation of rugby, where players wear tags on their shorts. The game is played by two teams with six players on each side, and the main objective is to pass the ball and avoid being tagged. Tag Rugby is popular in schools and is used as a tool for teaching basic rugby skills.
Understanding the different names for rugby games and their variations is crucial for anyone interested in the sport. Each game has its unique rules and playing style, and knowing these differences can enhance one’s appreciation and understanding of rugby.
Final Thoughts on Rugby Games
- It is important to note that the different names for rugby games are not just based on the level of play or the location of the game, but also on the type of rugby being played.
- For example, rugby union and rugby league are two different types of rugby with different rules and playing styles.
- In addition, the name of the game can also be influenced by the organization or governing body overseeing the game.
- Understanding the different names for rugby games can be confusing, but it is important to understand the nuances of each game in order to fully appreciate the sport.
- With this comprehensive guide, readers will have a better understanding of the different names for rugby games and the unique characteristics of each type of rugby.
FAQs
1. What are rugby games called?
Rugby games are commonly referred to as either “rugby union” or simply “rugby.” These terms are often used interchangeably to describe the sport played by teams of 15 players on a grass or synthetic turf field.
2. What is the difference between rugby union and rugby league?
Rugby union and rugby league are two distinct forms of rugby. Rugby union is the more traditional and widespread form of the sport, played by teams of 15 players. Rugby league, on the other hand, is a variant of rugby that is played by teams of 13 players and is more popular in Northern England, Australia, and New Zealand.
3. What is sevens rugby?
Sevens rugby is a variant of rugby union that is played by teams of 7 players. It is typically played on a smaller field and has a faster pace than traditional rugby union or rugby league games. Sevens rugby is most commonly played in tournaments, such as the World Rugby Sevens Series.
4. What is touch rugby?
Touch rugby is a non-contact variant of rugby that is played by teams of 7 or 10 players. The objective of the game is for players to touch and pass the ball to their teammates without being tackled by the opposing team. Touch rugby is often played in recreational settings or as a warm-up game before more competitive matches.
5. What is the difference between rugby union and American football?
Rugby union and American football are two distinct sports that share some similarities but have many differences. One of the most notable differences is the size of the teams: rugby union teams have 15 players, while American football teams have 11 players. Another difference is the rules surrounding handling the ball: in rugby union, players are not allowed to run with the ball in their hands, while in American football, running with the ball is a key part of the game.
