Rugby

Rugby is a fast-paced, full-contact team sport focused on running, passing, and strategic play.

Key Considerations
Budget:  $$$
Physical Intensity:  High
Competitive Level: Medium
Time Demand:  Medium
Key Considerations
Budget:  $$$
Time Commitment:  Medium
Physical Intensity:  High
Competiveness: Medium

Learn More About Rugby

The game is played with an oval ball and emphasizes teamwork, strength, and endurance. Rugby has multiple formats, including 15-a-side (union) and 7-a-side (sevens), each with slightly different rules and pace. It’s a social, inclusive sport played globally, promoting respect, discipline, and community.

Fast Facts

🫖 Originated in England in the 19th century
🤝 Known for the “spirit of rugby”—respect and sportsmanship
🏃‍♂️ Rugby sevens is an Olympic sport
👟 Positions have specialized roles: forwards, backs, and scrum-half
🌍 Popular worldwide, especially in Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand

Rugby in Calgary

Gameplay Info

Players pass the ball backwards or sideways and can kick forwards. Teams score by grounding the ball in the opponent’s try zone (try) or kicking it through the goalposts. Matches involve scrums, rucks, and lineouts to restart play. Safety rules protect players from high tackles and dangerous contact.

Find an association near you
Use our sports directory to find teams, associations, locations, camps, and more.

Levels of Play

  • Learn-to-Play / Youth
  • Recreational / Club
  • Provincial / Regional
  • National / International

Health & Fitness Benefits

  • Builds strength, speed, and cardiovascular endurance
  • Improves agility, coordination, and tackling skills
  • Enhances teamwork, strategy, and mental toughness
  • Encourages discipline and resilience
  • Supports full-body conditioning