Tag: rugby union
Rugby 101 – Positions – Number 8
The Role of Number 8 in Rugby: The Key to the Back Row The number 8 is one of the most versatile and influential players in a rugby team. Positioned at the back of the scrum, the number 8 acts as a crucial link between the forwards and the backs, blending physicality with skill and…
The Rise and Fall of the Dallas Jackals: Lessons for the Future of Major League Rugby
What the Collapse of the Dallas Jackals Means for the Growth of Rugby in North America The rise and fall of the Dallas Jackals is a cautionary tale of ambition, potential, and the growing pains of professional rugby in North America. The Jackals were once seen as a promising addition to Major League Rugby (MLR),…
The Changing Tides of Collegiate Rugby Part 1
From Underdogs to Triumph: How CSUMB Rugby Defied the Odds at Stanford 10’s A few weeks ago, I was, yet again, endlessly scrolling through social media when I came across a post from my former coach’s wife congratulating my alma mater for going 3-0 on the day at the Stanford 10’s rugby tournament. This…
Rugby 101 – Positions – Flankers
The Role of Flankers in Rugby: The Versatile Workhorses Flankers are dynamic, versatile, and crucial players in rugby. Positioned on either side of the scrum, flankers wear the numbers 6 (blindside flanker) and 7 (openside flanker) and are responsible for a wide range of tasks, including tackling, rucking, ball-carrying, and disrupting the opposition’s attack. Known…
Balancing Careers: The True Cost of Being a Pro Rugby Player in North America
The Hidden Financial Struggles of Pro Rugby Players in North America While the growing popularity of rugby in North America, particularly through leagues like Major League Rugby (MLR), has provided a platform for players to pursue their passion, the financial realities of being a professional rugby player in the region remain challenging. Unlike in more…
Rugby 101 – Positions – Locks
The Role of Locks in Rugby: The Powerhouses of the Pack Locks, also known as second-row forwards, are among the most physically imposing players on a rugby team. Wearing the numbers 4 and 5, locks are central to a team’s forward pack, providing strength, height, and power in both the set pieces and open play.…
Unsung Legends of Rugby: Why Equipment Managers and Support Staff Are Crucial to North America’s Rugby Growth
The Hidden Heroes of North American Rugby: How Backroom Staff Drive Success Behind the Scenes While the athletes on the field capture the spotlight, rugby’s success in North America hinges on an often-overlooked group of individuals: the equipment managers and backroom staff. These unsung heroes work tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that teams can perform…
Building a Competitive USA Rugby Team: Can a Single Team of Eagles in MLR Make a Difference?
Can a Single USA Rugby Team in MLR Elevate USAR to New Heights? For a few years now I’ve been having a conversation with anyone willing to listen to me (so yeah I’ve been talking to myself) about having a domestic competition with national team players spread out amongst the teams, or having just…
Overcoming Challenges: Growing Rugby in North America’s Football-Dominated Sports Culture
The Challenges of Promoting Rugby in a Football-Dominant Culture In North America, rugby has long struggled to gain the same attention and following as mainstream sports such as American football, basketball, hockey, and baseball. Despite rugby’s growing global popularity, particularly in regions such as Europe, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Africa, it remains relatively…
Rugby 101 – Positions – Hookers
The Role of Hookers in Rugby: The Central Cog of the Scrum and Lineout The hooker in rugby is a unique and critical position that combines strength, skill, and agility. Wearing the number 2 jersey, the hooker is an essential player in the forward pack, serving as the central figure in the scrum and a…