The aim of Rugby Union is to score more points than the opposing team by carrying, passing, or kicking the ball into the opponent’s in-goal area and grounding it for a try, or by kicking it through the opponent’s goalposts for additional points. The team that accumulates the most points by the end of the game wins.
Two teams of 15 players each compete on a rectangular field. Players can run with the ball, pass it backwards, or kick it forward. The opposing team must tackle the ball carrier to stop progress. The game is played in two 40-minute halves with a halftime break.
The playing field is 100 metres long and 70 metres wide, with goalposts at each end. The ball is oval-shaped, larger than a football, and made for easy handling, passing, and kicking. There are markings on the field, including the try line, 22-metre line, and halfway line, which help players navigate gameplay.
Rugby Union teams are divided into forwards and backs, each with specific roles:
Forwards (Numbers 1-8)
Backs (Numbers 9-15)
Usually faster, more agile players who focus on passing, kicking, and scoring tries. Their job is to exploit space and create attacking opportunities. Positions include scrum-half, fly-half, centres, wingers, and the full-back.
Points can be earned in four different ways:
Try (5 points) – Grounding the ball in the opponent’s in-goal area.
Conversion (2 points) – A kick through the goalposts after a try.
Penalty Kick (3 points) – Awarded when the opposing team commits a serious infringement.
Drop Goal (3 points) – A player drops the ball and kicks it through the posts in open play.
Rugby Union is a continuous-flow game, with different set pieces and contests for possession:
Scrums
A contest for the ball after certain rule infringements. Eight forwards from each team bind together and push against each other while the ball is rolled in.
Lineouts
Used to restart play when the ball goes out of bounds. Players lift a teammate to catch the thrown-in ball.
Rucks
Occur after a tackle when players compete for the ball on the ground.
Mauls
Formed when a ball carrier is held up but remains standing while teammates push forward.
Rugby Union is governed by core values that define its spirit and culture:
Respect – Players respect their teammates, opponents, and referees at all times.
Discipline – Following the laws of the game ensures fairness and safety.
Integrity – The game is played with honesty and sportsmanship.
Solidarity – Rugby fosters inclusivity and unity among players worldwide.
Passion – Enthusiasm for the game drives its global appeal.
Rugby Union is played at many levels, from local clubs to international tournaments, including:
Grassroots and amateur leagues – Community clubs and schools play at the foundation level.
Professional club competitions – Such as the English Premiership, United Rugby Championship, and Super Rugby.
International tournaments – Including the Six Nations Championship, Rugby World Cup, and The Bingham Cup, which is the world’s largest LGBTQ+ inclusive rugby tournament.
Rugby Union has a passionate following in countries like New Zealand, England, Australia, South Africa, France, and the Pacific Islands. However, the sport is expanding into new territories, with growing participation in Asia, North America, and Latin America.
At International Gay Rugby (IGR), we believe that rugby is for everyone. Whether you’re playing, supporting, or just starting to learn about the sport, rugby’s values of inclusivity, respect, and teamwork ensure there is a place for all.
If you’re interested in joining an IGR-affiliated club, check out our club directory to find a team near you!
