THE BASICS

Aim... The aim of the game is very simple: score more points than the other team. You do this by scoring try's, conversions, drop goals and penalties in your opponent's goal area. If both teams score the same amount or no points are scored then the match is a draw.

Duration... A game of rugby union consists of two halves of 40 minutes, with injury time added on at the end of each half. In between the two halves, there is a maximum 10-minute interval after which both team change ends. The referee's whistle indicates the start and finish of the half.

Kick off... Before the start of the match, the referee will toss a coin to decide which team will kick-off the match. The team that wins the toss will decide which end they want to attack first and whether they or the opposition will kick off at the start of the match. The game is started by a place kick or a drop kick from the middle of the halfway line. But the ball must travel 10 metres from the kick off, otherwise the opposition have the choice of whether to take a scrum or a throw in on the halfway line with the feed or throw. A drop kick from the halfway line will re-start the game after a penalty or drop goal has been scored. The team that did not score will take the kick.

Ball... A good quality rugby ball will help you improve your handling and kicking skills on and off the field. Traditionally, rugby balls were made hand-stitched leather. But it would often get very heavy when it was raining, making it very difficult to handle in slippery conditions. However, modern technology has seen the introduction of sophisticated waterproof synthetic materials which make the ball easier to handle in wet and muddy conditions. Ensure your ball is properly pumped full of air before you start practising your passing, catching and kicking on your own or with a team-mate.

Kit... Rugby players must wear a Jersey, shorts, socks and boots on the field of play. But as the game becomes more physical, more players are using upper body and head protection on the pitch.

THE GAME

Rugby is played on a field 110 by 75 yards with 25 yard end zones (try zone).  Goal posts are on the goal line and the same as those in American football.  There are two 40-minute halves, with a 5 minute half time.  There are no time-outs, other than a minute for an injury.  Teams Can replace a maximum of seven injured players during a game.

Click on one of the links below for more information about the game of rugby.

The Laws
The Positions
The Scrum
The Lineout
The Ruck / Maul
Equipment
Common Mistakes