New Rugbyer?

Question

I played with a team last summer/fall a little bit, but it was strictly practicing, but i'm starting now to play for a season. any advice? should i wear anything since i'm a newb? thanks mates

Answer 1

Most of the people you're playing with will have learned to play without any protective padding and I'd advise you do the same or otherwise you might end up thinking that shoulderpads are going to help you avoid injury. They don't and their manufacturers don't claim that they do. Shoulder pads are designed to prevent superficial injuries but in fact all they do is give you stupid honeycomb shaped bruises on your shoulders. I've dislocated my shoulder more times wearing padding than without it.

As for a head guard, the same goes - if you get hit in the head by 120kg of flying meat then you're going to get knocked out at some point - headguard or not. They overheat your head and dehydrate you and it's very tempting for srum halves like myself to slot three fingers into the air vents and pull your head off so just get some good boots, a pair of shorts, a shirt, some socks and a well fitted gumshield and hit the meat plate. You'll be fine.

Answer 2

i simply suggest wear whatever you feel comfortable playing rugby (only rugby gear). What i mean is if you feel comfortable wearing a scrum cap, where one, just coz everyone is wearing one you should also. you wouldn't want to be spending half the game just trying to get comfortable with the cap on, but i strongly suggest rugby gloves. With rugby gloves you get a firmer grip of the ball. Depending on the position you play there are different types of gear you need. If you are in the backline try to be light as possible coz that xtra weight on you just might bite you in the A$$ (xcuse the language) In the forwards wear shoulder pads as you will be doing alot of rucking and mauling. And don't forget your mouth guard and just remember all these tips are not compulsory if you want to play


All the best bro.....

Answer 3

Depends on where you are going to play. Definately wear compression shorts, 'real' rugby shorts - and decent rugby boots. You can get away with soccer cleats, but if you are in the pack you will appreciate hard-top boots that can stand up to the abuse you get in the rucks and scrums. Scrum caps are good for pack players if you don't want califlower ears, and rugby shoulder pads are good if you have had shoulder injuries.

Answer 4

Well as a new rugger i would suggest you get a scrum cap(esp if u play union), and some good boots make sure u don get hurt