Rugby for Dummies: How and Where to Catch the Fever

There is nothing quite as exciting, and perhaps mystifying, as the ye old game of rugby. While it might pure heaven for the ardent fan to watch to watch 30 guys chase a ball, to the uninitiated newcomer the sport can be about as foreign as Martian hieroglyphics. Take into account that rugby enjoys immense popularity in only a few special pockets of the world, and it is easy to understand why many people struggle to grasp its rules, intricacies, and terminology. They do not have it as a birthright, and they must be forgiven. Luckily, there are many resources and opportunities to convert the novice into a seasoned fan.
If you cannot tell the difference between a high tackle and a try line, then a brief video tutorial should get you up to speed. Fire up your computer, pop open a browser, and check out VideoJug’s excellent introduction to rugby.  At only three minutes long, you will feel well acquainted with the pitch in no time.
How convenient would it be if there was an entire website just spilling over with valuable information for the rugby rookie and expert alike? RugbyHow.com fits the bill by offering visitors detailed tips on game rules, basic and advanced play, positions, scoring, skill development, and coaching.  There is even a section featuring instructional videos by the pros.
Impress your mates and establish yourself as the de facto armchair referee at your favorite pub with the World Rugby Laws of Rugby mobile app. With a quick glance at your smartphone, you can review Rugby Union rules and technicalities via high quality videos and animations. Do not be surprised if you find yourself putting your pint down after every play to officiate.
Another way to quickly climb the rugby fandom ranks is to familiarize yourself with upcoming matches and expected outcomes. Put in a little research prior to match day, and you will be in an excellent position to enjoy the rivalries and dynamics of pro league play.  You can even go the extra mile and familiarize yourself with some of rugby’s finer details such as first try scorers and player jersey numbers.
Depending on your location, you may be able to join rugby interest groups. In-person meetings with fellow rugby enthusiasts are a fun way to enhance your knowledge of the game while socializing with new friends. Can you possibly think of a better way to bond with strangers than over the shared viewing of grown men pummeling each over a ball in a grassy field?  Meetup.com features rugby related groups from Perth to Glasgow for both the spectator and participant.
If you are one of those brave enough to don a jersey and try rugby yourself, a number of club teams around the world are waiting for you step onto the pitch.  You can dip your toes in the water by playing in a touch rugby league, or take a fully immersive approach with tackle rugby. Rugby Clubs is a comprehensive directory of clubs if you reside in the UK, while USA Club Rugby includes a handy club locator for US residents. A quick online search of your location will also help you determine the nearest club.