Rugby is a physically demanding and strategic field sport that originated in England in the early 19th century. It is characterized by two teams, each typically consisting of 15 players in traditional formats, competing to score points by carrying, passing, and kicking an oval-shaped ball to touch down in the opponent's in-goal area or kicking it through the goalposts.
The sport is divided primarily into two main codes: Rugby Union and Rugby League, each with its distinctive rules, gameplay, and scoring systems. Rugby Union features more players, set pieces like scrums and lineouts, and allows for more continuous play, while Rugby League emphasizes speed and has different tackle and play-the-ball rules.
The game is played on a rectangular field called a pitch, with goalposts at each end. Scoring can be achieved in several ways: a try (the main scoring method, worth 5 points in Union and 4 points in League), a conversion kick (worth 2 points), a penalty kick (worth 3 points), and a drop goal (worth 3 points in Union and 1 point in League).
Rugby is known for its sportsmanship and camaraderie, often summarized by the ethos of "rugby values," which promotes respect, integrity, and teamwork. It has a passionate following around the world, with prominent tournaments such as the Rugby World Cup, Six Nations Championship, and various domestic leagues fueling its popularity.
From grassroots levels to elite competitions, rugby fosters a strong sense of community, encouraging physical fitness, discipline, and a spirit of cooperation among players and fans alike. As a global sport, it continues to grow, attracting new participants and audiences across diverse cultures and regions.