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Old Glory DC

Rugby 101

Rugby isn’t just a game—it’s heart-pounding action, strategic brilliance, and a community united by passion. For Old Glory fans, it’s a way of life here in DC, where every ruck, maul, and try embodies the spirit of our team and city. Whether you’re new to the sport or looking to better understand the game while cheering for Old Glory DC, you’ve come to the right place!

The Basics of Rugby

Rugby is thrilling, fast-paced, and full of surprises. At its core, it’s a battle of strategy and skill, governed by laws (not rules), designed to create a fair, free-flowing contest. The goal? Score more points than the opposition, using tactics, teamwork, and lots of muscle!

Rugby laws may seem complex at first glance, but once you understand the basics, you’ll start to spot the beauty and brilliance that keeps fans coming back game after game.

The Laws of the Game

The laws of rugby apply globally and ensure every match stays exciting and fair. Here are three key areas of play worth understanding before your next Old Glory match:

  • Tackles – When a tackle is made, the tackler must release the ball carrier, allowing play to continue. The tackler’s teammates can then try to gain possession, creating a dramatic struggle for the ball.
  • Advantage – If a team makes an error, the opposition may get an “advantage” to capitalize on the opportunity. If they can’t, play returns to where the error occurred.
  • Offside – Players must stay behind the ball or their teammates to remain eligible to play. It ensures every player stays involved in the game fairly.

Key Terms to Know

Rugby has its own language, and knowing these terms will help you follow along like a pro:

  • Lineout – A jump-ball-like restart when the ball or ball carrier goes out of bounds.
  • Maul – A mass of standing players, locking arms, moving toward the goal line around a ball carrier.
  • Ruck – When the ball is on the ground, players from both sides gather to contest possession, using their feet to push the ball back to their side.
  • Scrum – An iconic rugby showdown, where eight players on either team lock together and push against each other, competing for possession after a minor infraction.
  • Sin Bin – When a player is temporarily removed from the game and must sit out for 10 minutes due to dangerous play or serious rule infringements.

The Players’ Roles and Responsibilities

A rugby team is 15 players strong, each wearing a specific jersey number and handling distinct roles on the field. Every player contributes to the game’s strategy and success.

Forwards (The Pack)

These powerhouses focus on winning possession and controlling the game’s physical aspects.

  • #1 & #3 – Props
  • #2 – Hooker
  • #4 & #5 – Locks
  • #6 & #7 – Flankers
  • #8 – Eightman

Backs (The Back Line)

These speedsters and strategists thrive on creativity and ball movement.

  • #9 – Scrumhalf
  • #10 – Flyhalf
  • #11 & #14 – Wings
  • #12 & #13 – Inside and Outside Centers
  • #15 – Fullback

Visualize It

Here’s a typical lineup showing players in their positions on the pitch

Image credit SportSG

Scoring Points

Scoring in rugby is versatile and spectacular, with different methods contributing points toward the game’s total. Here’s how Old Glory DC players bring home the wins:

  • Try (5 Points): The ultimate rugby achievement—touching the ball down in the opponent’s goal area.
  • Conversion (2 Points): After a try, kick the ball through the uprights to add extra points.
  • Penalty Kick (3 Points): Earned when the opposing team commits an infraction, giving your team the chance to kick for goal.
  • Drop Goal (3 Points): A bouncing kick at goal, taken in open play and successfully sent through the posts.

Visualize the Game

Welcome to Old Glory Family

When you cheer for Old Glory DC, you’re part of something bigger than rugby—a community united by pride and passion. Whether you’re at the Maryland Soccerplex, watching the fire of the scrum, or cheering a breathtaking try from your favorite wing, you’re contributing to our legacy as a rugby powerhouse in Major League Rugby. Not only do the rules of rugby excite and challenge, but every match we play reflects our values—teamwork, resilience, and ambition. We’re thrilled to have you with us on this incredible adventure.

Want to see it all in action? Join us for our next match! Check out ticket details, news, and updates. Together, we’ll continue to build the heartbeat of rugby in DC.