Learn Rugby
Rugby Glossary
Every term a first-time player or spectator needs — in plain English.
Rules
After a foul, the referee lets play continue if the non-offending team can gain something from it.
Passing the ball toward the opponent's goal line. Illegal in rugby — passes must go backward or sideways.
A tackle that makes contact at or above the shoulders.
Illegal and dangerous. Referees punish it with a penalty, yellow card, or red card. Coaches teach 'nipples and below.'
Dropping or knocking the ball forward with your hands or arms.
Play stops and the other team gets a scrum. It's the most common beginner mistake — hands up, eyes on the ball.
Being ahead of a teammate who has the ball, or in front of the play at a ruck or kick.
You can't be in front of the ball. At a ruck, stay behind the last player's back foot until the ball is out.
Out of bounds. The ball or ball-carrier going over the sideline is 'in touch.'
Play
The contest for the ball right after a tackle — the tackle, ruck, and clear-out all together.
A standing contest for the ball with the ball-carrier held up by players from both teams.
The contest for the ball on the ground after a tackle, with players on their feet over it.
Hands off the ground. Enter through 'the gate' — straight behind your own player.
Winning the ball from the other team, usually at the breakdown.
Set Piece
A set piece that restarts play after the ball goes into touch. Forwards line up and one team throws the ball in.
A set piece where eight forwards from each team bind together and contest the ball put in on the ground.
Scoring
2 points — a kick at goal after a try, taken in line with where the try was scored.
3 points — kicked from open play by dropping the ball and kicking it on the half-volley through the posts.
3 points — a kick at the posts awarded after a penalty.
5 points — scored by grounding the ball on or over the opponent's try line.
The goal line at each end of the field. Ground the ball on or past it to score a try.
Roles
The 7 faster players (numbers 9–15) who run, pass, and kick in space.
The 8 heavier players (numbers 1–8) who scrum, lineout, and win the ball.
Missing a term? Let us know and we'll add it.
Join the Club
Ready to see it in person?
Wednesdays at Ludington Park, 7:00 PM. No experience needed.