Rugby is one of the world’s most passionate and physically demanding sports, loved for its intensity, teamwork, and deep-rooted traditions. Whether it's played in packed stadiums or on muddy village fields, rugby is more than just a game — it’s a culture.
Let’s begin with a bit of history. Rugby traces its origins back to England in the early 19th century. According to legend, during a football match at Rugby School in 1823, a student named William Webb Ellis picked up the ball and ran with it — breaking the rules, but creating a new sport. While historians debate the accuracy of this story, the name stuck, and rugby was born.
By the late 1800s, rugby had spread throughout the British Empire. It took root in countries like New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, and France, becoming a key part of their sporting identities. In 1895, the sport split into two major codes: Rugby Union and Rugby League, differing in rules, player numbers, and traditions. Today, Rugby Union is the more globally recognized format, especially in international competitions like the Rugby World Cup.
Now let’s talk about the culture. Rugby is built on values like respect, discipline, and camaraderie. Players often call it "a hooligan's game played by gentlemen" — tough on the outside, but grounded in sportsmanship. After fierce matches, it's common for rival teams to share a drink together, showing mutual respect.
Rugby is also steeped in tradition. The All Blacks of New Zealand famously perform the haka, a traditional Māori war dance, before each match. It’s not just a show — it’s a cultural statement of pride, unity, and defiance.
Many people wonder how rugby compares to American football. At first glance, the two look similar — they both involve carrying an oval-shaped ball across a field and scoring points by reaching the opponent’s end zone. But the differences are key.
First, rugby is continuous play. There are no downs or long pauses between plays. Players are constantly moving, and possession is contested in real time. Also, rugby players do not wear helmets or heavy padding — it’s all about technique and body control.
In rugby, tackling is still a big part of the game, but it must be done below the shoulders and with safety in mind. The goal is to stop, not smash. That’s a major difference from American football, where blocking and high-impact collisions are common.
Scoring in rugby is also different. A try, worth five points, is scored by grounding the ball in the opponent’s in-goal area. After that, a conversion kick adds two more points. Penalty kicks and drop goals can also earn points, making strategy and kicking skills vital.
So, where is rugby most popular? The sport is hugely celebrated in New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland, France, and also in countries like Fiji, Argentina, Japan, and Samoa. The Rugby World Cup is one of the largest sporting events in the world, watched by millions and filled with unforgettable moments of athleticism and emotion.
In recent years, rugby has grown in Asia, North America, and even Africa, with youth programs and professional leagues on the rise. Rugby Sevens, a faster version with seven players per team, has also become an Olympic sport, boosting the game's global reach.
To wrap up, rugby is a sport of heart, grit, and global connection. Its rules may be complex at first, but its spirit is simple — work hard, respect your opponent, and play for the team. Whether you’re watching under the lights in Paris or barefoot in the Pacific Islands, rugby brings people together like few other sports can.
intensity:強度、激烈
The intensity of a rugby match is unlike any other.
legend:傳說
The story of William Webb Ellis is a famous rugby legend.
camaraderie:夥伴情誼。
Rugby builds strong camaraderie among teammates.
tackle:擒抱
Tackling in rugby must be done below the shoulders.
continuous play:持續進行的比賽。
Rugby’s continuous play keeps the action fast and intense.
haka:毛利戰舞