Rugby has long been perceived as a male-dominated sport, but times are changing. Women’s rugby is one of the fastest-growing sports globally, with thousands of female players joining clubs and national teams every year. If you’re considering playing rugby as a girl, you might have some questions: Is rugby safe? Will I fit in? What are the benefits of playing? The good news is that rugby is a sport for everyone, and it provides a wide range of physical, mental, and social benefits.
From boosting confidence to building lifelong friendships, playing rugby can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Whether you’re completely new to the sport or have played other contact sports before, there’s a place for you on the rugby field. In this article, we’ll explore why more girls are taking up rugby, the benefits of playing, safety considerations, and how to get started in the game.
Why More Girls Are Playing Rugby
1. The Rise of Women’s Rugby
Women’s rugby has experienced explosive growth over the past decade. The Women’s Rugby World Cup, the Six Nations Women’s Championship, and Olympic Rugby Sevens have showcased the incredible talent and athleticism of female rugby players on an international stage. Governing bodies like World Rugby and national rugby unions are investing heavily in the sport, creating more opportunities for female players (World Rugby).
Countries like England, New Zealand, France, and Australia have launched professional women’s rugby leagues, helping the sport gain media coverage and attract new players. The growing visibility of women’s rugby means that girls now have more role models to look up to, inspiring them to get involved in the game.
2. Breaking Stereotypes
One of the biggest reasons more girls are playing rugby is the challenge to outdated stereotypes. Rugby has often been viewed as too aggressive or dangerous for women, but this perception is changing. Rugby is about teamwork, respect, and resilience—qualities that apply to everyone, regardless of gender. Many schools and clubs now offer dedicated girls’ rugby programs, making the sport more accessible to young female players.
Playing rugby can empower girls to break through societal norms and prove that they are just as strong, competitive, and skilled as male players. The sport is also an excellent way to develop self-confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging.
Benefits of Playing Rugby as a Girl
1. Physical Strength and Fitness
Rugby is a full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, speed, and agility. Whether you’re sprinting down the field, tackling an opponent, or supporting a teammate, every movement in rugby contributes to overall fitness. Unlike some other sports, rugby encourages a variety of body types—whether you’re tall, short, fast, or powerful, there’s a position for you on the team.
2. Mental Toughness and Confidence
Rugby is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Learning how to handle pressure, make split-second decisions, and push through challenges helps build mental toughness. Overcoming obstacles on the field translates into everyday life, making players more confident and resilient.
Studies have shown that participating in team sports like rugby can improve mental health, reduce stress, and increase self-esteem. The camaraderie and encouragement from teammates can provide a strong support system, helping girls feel empowered and motivated.
3. Teamwork and Friendships
One of the greatest aspects of rugby is the sense of camaraderie and teamwork it fosters. Rugby is a sport where players rely on each other to succeed, whether it’s in a scrum, a defensive line, or a try-scoring play. This creates lifelong friendships and strong bonds between teammates.
Many players say that their rugby team feels like a second family. The sport’s values—respect, inclusivity, and discipline—help create a welcoming and supportive environment for all players.
Safety and Common Concerns
1. Is Rugby Safe for Girls?
One of the most common concerns about playing rugby is safety. While rugby is a contact sport, proper training, coaching, and protective gear significantly reduce the risk of injury. Most teams emphasize safe tackling techniques and provide beginner-friendly training to ensure new players learn the game in a controlled and supportive environment.
Additionally, many leagues have modified versions of the game for beginners, such as tag rugby or touch rugby, which eliminate tackling and allow players to develop their skills before transitioning to full-contact rugby.
2. Injury Prevention and Recovery
Like any sport, rugby has a risk of injuries, but the majority of them are minor. Proper warm-ups, stretching, and strength training can help prevent injuries. Coaches also teach players how to fall safely, tackle correctly, and avoid dangerous play.
For girls worried about the physicality of the sport, it’s important to know that rugby has some of the best injury-prevention strategies compared to other contact sports. Wearing a mouthguard, padded headgear, and protective gear further enhances safety.
How to Get Started with Rugby as a Girl
1. Find a Local Club or School Team
If you’re interested in playing rugby, the first step is to find a local club, school team, or community rugby program. Many countries have organizations dedicated to women’s rugby, including:
- England Rugby (RFU Women’s Rugby)
- USA Rugby (USA Rugby Women)
- Rugby Australia (Rugby AU Women’s)
- New Zealand Rugby (Black Ferns Rugby)
2. Start with Non-Contact Rugby
For beginners, starting with touch rugby or tag rugby is a great way to get familiar with the game without the physical contact. These versions of rugby emphasize passing, running, and teamwork while removing tackling from the game.
Once you gain confidence and understanding of the sport, you can transition to full-contact rugby.
3. Develop Your Skills
To become a well-rounded rugby player, focus on key skills such as:
- Passing and catching – Essential for moving the ball quickly.
- Tackling and defense – Learning safe tackling techniques.
- Kicking and strategy – Understanding different playing positions.
- Fitness and conditioning – Strength training to enhance performance.
Watching professional women’s rugby matches can also help you learn game strategies and techniques.
Conclusion
Rugby is an empowering, inclusive, and physically rewarding sport that welcomes players of all abilities. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, build confidence, or simply try something new, rugby offers a fantastic opportunity for personal growth. The sport’s strong sense of community, teamwork, and support makes it an incredible experience for any girl willing to take on the challenge.
If you’ve ever considered playing rugby but were unsure if it’s the right sport for you, the answer is simple—give it a try! With the right mindset, training, and support, rugby can be one of the most fulfilling activities you’ll ever participate in. Don’t let outdated stereotypes hold you back—step onto the field and show the world what you’re capable of.
Call to Action
Are you ready to take on the rugby challenge? Join a team today! Search for local rugby clubs in your area and find out how you can start training. Follow women’s rugby leagues and watch live games to get inspired. Share this article with friends who might be interested in playing, and let’s grow the game together!
See Also: Why is Rugby Growing So Fast?
