Rugby is a fast-paced game played with a large ball shaped similarly to a football, although it is rounder and less pointed. Unlike football, every player on a rugby team must be able to pass, kick, catch, run, tackle and defend during the game. The rugby ball is made of leather and is made in various sizes for youth and adult players.
The Field
The rugby field is called a pitch. It generally measured 100 meters (110 yards) in length and 70 meters (75 yards) wide. Each end consists of an end zone measuring behind the goal posts. The goal posts are "H" shaped and are located on the goal line. The goal posts are about the same size as those used in American football.
Team Make-Up
A rugby team consists of 15 players. Each player is numbered according to his position. There are eight forwards, usually the larger and stronger members of the team. The team also typically has seven backs who are typically the faster and more agile players. The main objective of the backs is to score off of the possession won by the forwards.
Starting the Game
The game is started with a kickoff from the middle of the field. The ball must travel beyond the 10 meter line and any player of any team may recover the kickoff.
Ball Movement
Play doesn't stop in rugby. The person with the ball leads the attack. Players can carry, pass or kick the ball. The ball carrier must release the ball and get away from it when tackled in order to allow other players to move the ball. When carrying the ball the player may continue to run unless they are tackled, move out of bounds or cross the goal line. The ball may be passed to any player, but it can only be passed laterally or backwards. Any player on any team can kick the ball forward to a teammate.
Scoring
Five points are awarded to the team who touches the ball down in the other team's end goal. Two points are awarded for a kick through the goal posts. This kick is taken on a line at least 10 meters from where the ball was touched down. In the event of a major penalty the kicking team can kick for a three-point penalty kick. A drop kick, dropping the ball while in motion and kicking toward the goal, is awarded if the kick makes it through the opposing team's goal. If the kick fails the ball remains in play.
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