History
Legend has it that in 1823, during a school football game in the town of Rugby, England, a young man named William Webb Ellis picked up the ball and ran towards the opposition’s goal line.
William Webb Ellis
The 1924 USA Men's Olympic Rugby Team
The match was between the United States and England, it took place on 14 April 1991 at Cardiff Arms Park in Wales. The United States were crowned the first-ever Champions after defeating England 19-6.
The Modern Game
A game for all, today’s rendition of rugby features more pace and skill than ever before from all genders and all ages. As the growth of the game continues, and the professionalism of the sport advances, an already exciting game has become even more appealing to sports fans globally.
Two centuries later, rugby football has evolved into one of the world’s most popular sports, with millions of people playing, watching, and enjoying the game.
At the heart of rugby is a unique ethos that it has retained over the years. Not only is the game played to the Laws, but within the spirit of the Laws. Through discipline, control, and mutual self-respect, a fellowship and sense of fair play are forged, defining rugby as the game it is.
From the school playground to the Rugby World Cup final, rugby union offers a truly unique and thoroughly rewarding experience for all involved in the game.
World Rugby Values
World Rugby has designated five core values of our game. They are at the heart of everything we do, driving our behaviors as an organization and a sport.
Integrity
Integrity is central to the fabric of the game and is generated through honesty and fair play.
Passion
Passion is what brings rugby fans together. Rugby generates excitement, emotional attachment, and a sense of belonging to the global rugby family.
Discipline
Discipline is an integral part of the game both on and off the field and is reflected through adherence to the Laws, the Regulations, and rugby's core values.
Solidarity
Rugby provides a unifying spirit that leads to lifelong friendships, camaraderie, teamwork, and loyalty which transcends all differences.
Respect
Respect for team-mates, opponents, match officials, and those involved in the game is paramount.
Club To Country
Youth Rugby
Rugby is a game for all ages, with the ability to adapt and change as needed. Most youth programs can be co-ed until the age of 12 and feature either tag, flag, or tackle options. School and Club programs alike exist within our region and we encourage families to consider rugby just like any other sport for developing locomotive, teamwork, and communication skills.
Universities in Canada and the United States offer scholarship opportunities for student-athletes to continue their education through rugby. Most schools also have at least a Club team as well, making it a viable choice for kids who want to continue to play a sport after high school.
Adult Rugby
Programs to support all levels of the game compete throughout our region, offering more community and more opportunity for those who begin to, or continue to, play as adults. From amateur, local sides to professional leagues in the United States to National Team representation, whatever your goals are – rugby can act as a pathway for an array of benefits.
Adaptive programs also exist, including wheelchair and deaf rugby, and the wheelchair version of the game is a Paralympic sport.
Referees
The match is under the control of the referee and two assistant referees. Depending on the level at which the game is being played, there may be other officials behind the scenes such as a timekeeper or television match official to adjudicate on replays. Referees for major international competitions or windows are appointed by World Rugby.
Coaches
The role of the coach varies greatly depending on the level at which the team operates. At the grassroots level, it’s about developing players – technically and personally – while at the international level, the coach is responsible for team selection, performance, and results.
A coach takes on many interchangeable roles, such as leader, manager, teacher, and organizer. The coach needs to know the game and its laws, motivation, physical fitness, and an understanding of how to coach and improve players.
Beginners Guide & Laws
Whether you want to pick up a ball yourself, become a coach or referee, or learn more about rugby as a fan – World Rugby’s ‘Rugby Ready’ program will jumpstart your rugby IQ.
