How to Play Rugby: A Beginner’s Guide

If you’ve ever watched rugby and thought, "I want to try that," you’re in the right place. Rugby can look chaotic, but the core ideas are simple. You need a ball, some teammates, and a willingness to run, pass, and tackle safely. This guide breaks down everything you need to know before you step onto the pitch.

Understanding the Basics

First, get the right gear. A mouthguard and a good pair of rugby boots with studs are essential. You don’t need heavy pads – a light shoulder pad and a scrum cap can help beginners feel secure, but many start with just the basics.

The field is a rectangle about 100 meters long with H‑shaped goalposts at each end. The game is divided into two 40‑minute halves. Each team has 15 players in the traditional format, but many clubs run 7‑a‑side games for newcomers because there’s more space to learn.

Know the scoring: a try is five points, earned by grounding the ball in the opponent’s in‑goal area. After a try, you attempt a conversion kick for two extra points. Penalty kicks and drop goals are worth three points each. Remember, the ball can only be passed backward or laterally – forward passes are illegal and result in a scrum.

First Steps on the Field

Start with the basic skills: passing, catching, and running with the ball. Practice a short, spinning pass – hold the ball sideways, push it with both hands, and aim for a teammate’s chest. Keep the pass low and quick; long, high passes are harder to control.

Catching is just as important. Position your hands in a ‘W’ shape and bring the ball into the pocket of the fingers. If the ball is high, pull it into your chest and use both hands to secure it. A simple drill with a friend – one throws, the other catches – builds confidence fast.

Tackling feels intimidating, but safe technique makes it manageable. Aim for the opponent’s thighs, wrap your arms around their legs, and drive your shoulder into their hip. Always keep your head to the side of the ball, never over the top. Practice with a padded tackle bag before moving to live drills.

Once you’re comfortable with these basics, learn the simple rules of the ruck and maul. After a tackle, both teams fight for the ball on the ground – that’s a ruck. You stay on your feet, bind onto teammates, and push to win possession. A maul forms when the ball carrier stays upright and teammates bind around them, driving forward together.

Finally, understand the off‑side line. In open play, you must stay behind the ball. If you’re ahead of it, you’re off‑side and can’t participate until you get back onside. This rule keeps the game fair and prevents “cheating” down the field.

Play a few touch‑rugby games first. Touch replaces tackles with a simple touch, letting you focus on passing, running lines, and positioning without the impact. It’s a fun way to learn the flow of the game and build fitness.

When you feel ready, join a local club’s beginner session. Most clubs welcome newcomers, assign you a jersey, and pair you with a mentor. Ask questions, watch experienced players, and keep practicing the core moves every week.

Rugby is as much about teamwork as it is about skill. Communicate on the field – call for the ball, shout “up” when you need a lift, and support teammates after a tackle. The more you talk, the smoother the game becomes.

So grab a ball, get some boots, and head to the nearest pitch. With a bit of practice, you’ll be catching, passing, and tackling like a pro. Rugby isn’t just a sport; it’s a community. Welcome aboard!