History of Rugby

Rugby, an exciting team ball game that attracts attention and is popular all over the globe. This sport unites people of different nationalities, cultures and ages, creates powerful emotional bonds. Here athletes show strength, agility, tactical skills. They develop team spirit, cooperation, respect for opponents. Rugby makes a huge contribution to the sports community, so our rugby school is very popular and many children train in it.

Creation and first steps

The creation of rugby is associated with a school located in the town of Rugby in Yorkshire, England. According to legend, in 1823, during a football match, one of the students unexpectedly picked up the ball in his hands and carried it to the opponent's goal. This episode became the starting point in the development of a new sport.

In 1845, the first formal rules were developed at Rugby School, which included the ability to catch and carry the ball with the hands. This distinguished rugby from football, and the game began to attract the attention of schools and colleges in the United Kingdom. The first tournaments were held at local level.

In 1871, the Rugby Football Union was formed to establish uniform rules and regulations. This was an important step in the development and organization of the sport. Over time, rugby began to spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond.

In 1945, the first formal rules were developed at Rugby School, which included the ability to catch and carry the ball with the hands. This distinguished rugby from football, and the game began to attract the attention of schools and colleges in the United Kingdom. The first tournaments were held at local level.

World development

By the end of the 19th century, the game had spread to many countries of the British Empire. It had become an integral part of local culture.

This sport had a special place in educational institutions. Most prestigious schools and universities created their own teams that competed with each other. This strengthened the connection between sports and education, and also contributed to the development of sports values and leadership.

In the early 20th century, the International Rugby Board, later renamed World Rugby, was established to help coordinate and develop the game worldwide.

Modern stage

Rugby continues to evolve and adapt to modern requirements. One of the important changes has been the emergence of different formats - rugby 15 (according to classic rules) and rugby 7 (on a shortened field with fewer players).

Women's rugby has also gained significant recognition and development. International tournaments and championships are held for women's teams. This contributes to expanding opportunities for women in this sport.

Children's rugby schools are opening in various countries. They give children the opportunity to train from an early age, develop sports skills, physical strength, and coordination of movements. Training also contributes to the formation of team spirit and a respectful attitude towards opponents.

An important step in its development was its inclusion in the Olympic Games. Starting in 2016, the 7-seater version became an Olympic sport. This gave the game even greater popularity and recognition in the global sports community, as well as creating new opportunities for athletes and promoting development in different countries.

Interesting facts

There are a number of facts that give this sport a special appeal and make it unique:

Players can only pass the ball backwards or sideways, but not forwards. This creates unique tactical situations that require good communication from the players.
The fastest recorded time is held by New Zealand player Jeff Wilson, who ran the 100m in just 10.8 seconds against Australia in 1996.
The biggest victory in rugby history was recorded in 2002, when New Zealand beat Vanuatu 142-0.
There is a tradition of exchanging shirts after a match between team captains. It is a symbol of rivalry and respect for each other. The tradition has been maintained for many years.