About The Club
TCNJ Men's RFC Abridged History
(from best available information as of 10/4/2010)
Fall 1997/Spring 1998
TCNJ Rugby started with a simple flyer posted by Ralph Citarella. The propaganda worked, and after the first meeting there were 30 or so ex-football and soccer players bound together learning a completely new animal - the game of rugby. First practices were a comedy of errors taking place behind ABE. Eventually we were able to recruit an interim coach - Chris Kasner of the former Hibernians - who was able to add structure to the practices and single out positional players. The fall semester of 1997 consisted of no games per se, but it was able to weed out the weaker players and give glimpses of future standouts. Although no games were officially played, the team did attempt to have full contact games - on Astroturf. Several concussions and multiple carpet burns later, the team called it in for the semester and prepared for the spring.
The spring started off pretty much the same way the fall did. However now the team had a purpose. They had a non-sanctioned match against the Seton Hall Pirates A side. So the team did what needed to be done - prepare. With limited numbers and limited knowledge of the game, the players did their best to learn the game and acclimate themselves to the type of game they were about to jump headfirst into. Finally the big day came - the culmination of 2 semesters worth of preparation - and TCNJ didn't have enough players to field a full side. However, the Montclair Norsemen were kind enough to loan us some players to complete a side - we were not leaving without a match. It was obvious to all players involved we were an inexperienced team, however thru sheer will and determination the TCNJ squad pushed down the field and scored the first try in team history. Michael "The Pumpkin" Perentin completed an 8-man pickup by touching the ball on the post (it took us several minutes and a referees explanation to realize this was indeed a score since none of us had any idea what the rules were). TCNJ regrouped again in the 2nd half and was able to score a 2nd try. The man they call"Flap" picked up a ball in the open field and rumbled, stumbled, and bumbled his way into the try zone. In the end, the more experienced Seton Hall squad was victorious by a 3 point difference. Nonetheless it was a victory for us - TCNJ Rugby had officially begun. The World as we knew it would never again be the same.
Fall 1998
The season started out with the petitioning of the Eastern Pennsylvania Rugby Union for membership. The team was granted associate membership and TCNJ was officially bracketed into competitive rugby. The overall administrative structure of the team was testing a new theory of government - a 4 party system of checks and balances. Dubbed the "Four Horsemen" (Ralph Citarella, Joe Maringola, Mike Perentin, & Tony Cotroneo) they attempted to set the groundwork for a successful, enduring program. The system ultimately failed due to lack of communication and the administrative leadership was filtered down to Joe Maringola. Alone he acted as President/Match Secretary/Union liason/School liason. He filled these roles until his graduation in Spring of 2001. Ralph Citarella remained on and handled the Treasury duties, doing his best to con the school out of the most money possible. He did us proud - plus he was able to slide back into his natural role as captain.
The first game of the season was against Widener University Norsemen. An early test in the season for TCNJ, this game featured several promising rookies who would become part of the foundation of the team for several years. It was a hard fought battle, especially fielding the booming kicks from Widener player "Yoshi". However late into the 2nd half the game was within TCNJ reach, however due to a rookie's mistake in our try zone, Widener was able to pounce on the ball and leave with a win.
2nd match was against the Lafayette Norsemen. The field was the middle of farm country, directly next to an airport. And it was cold. TCNJ players braved it out, dug in and went punch for punch with the Norsemen, finally overpowering them in a convincing win. TCNJ has its first win. This day also saw the birth of a TCNJ tradition - the rookie chug. Stranded in the cornfields of Lafayette, Josh Elliot and Mark "Irish" Klimanskis became the first victims.
3rd and final divisional match was against St. Joes - it was more of a fist fight than a game and TCNJ was bested that day.
In a non-divisional game, TCNJ tried to test themselves with a match against a staple in east coast rugby, Princeton University. Besides being a school rich with rugby history, Princeton was Division 1 and national contenders. That didn't stop TCNJ - either out of sheer will or sheer stubborness, an 80 minute match was played and Princeton was victorious 48-5. The try scored by Joe "Little" Maringola still stands as the only try scored against Princeton. This would start one of TCNJ's first rivalries.
The season culminated with TCNJ earning the right to host the Division III Plate Championship. A rematch from earlier in the season, TCNJ & Widener butted heads once again. In front of a home crowd, TCNJ was able get its revenge, taking a convincing victory and with it the Plate Championship. TCNJ had its first piece of hardware.
Spring started with the same intensity as the spring - except we knew what we were doing.
Spring 2000
The upstart Lions felt a need for a challenge in the Spring of 2000. A tough schedule was plotted out against the best of the best teams in the EPRU, as well as some local favorites. TCNJ proved it was the dominant #2 school in the state with wins over both Rutgers & Montclair. TCNJ attempted to dethrone the mighty Princeton University, but again, TCNJ was outmatched by a skillful strong squad. To the credit of TCNJ no matter the score, no matter the injury (Ralph ripped open his ear yet again), they kept pounding back at them. Although a loss, the most memorable moment of the match is Lock Nick Lapolla's crushing hit to the Princeton scrumhalf ; the poor bloke woke up thinking he was Batman!
But the crowning moment (of sorts) was TCNJ's match against Kutztown University. TCNJ traveled 2 hours for a highly anticipated match against some big old Pennsylvania farm boys. Simply put, Kutztown was a highly skilled, well conditioned squad that dominated the pitch. However their skill in rugby did not match their sportsmanship. In the end, TCNJ was unable to provide a match as many of its players had been injured or were playing hurt. Captain Joe Maringola explained the situation to the head coach of Kutztown and shortly thereafter a melee ensued. 20 or so TCNJ players stood their ground to close to 60 farm boys; luckily cooler heads prevailed and while Little went toe to toe with the coach, TCNJ players made their way to their respective cars. TCNJ received a letter from Kutztown University banning TCNJ from playing ball at their fine institution.
Fall 2001
The Fall started off with the EPRU deeming the TCNJ Lions one of the most promising teams in Division II.
In the spring of 2001, the final chapter was written for most of the founding members of the club. A series of matches were scheduled pitting TCNJ against its fiercest rivals. TCNJ lost its first match to a tough Temple squad. TCNJ only showed up with 15 players but hung in strong the entire match and lost by a try. This game featured historic rucking performances by the men known simply as Muffin & Dumptruck. It also featured the first and only on-field decapitation by Flanker Jay Cairns.
TCNJ was able to fight thru the rest of the season with wins over Rutgers, Montclair, Upenn, & Swarthmore. TCNJ also challenged the pride and guts of several graduate and mens teams when it took part in the 1st annual Law Dogs tourney. Wins didn't matter in this tourney, it was simply a matter of proving TCNJ was the real deal and could go toe to toe with anyone, anytime. The stage had been set for the seniors last match. Home field ; TCNJ v/Temple - the rematch.
In a hard fought 80 minute battle, TCNJ was able to wear down and dominate Temple in all aspects of the game. When the final whistle blew, TCNJ walked off victorious & the seniors retired with the knowledge they had set the bar for all future teams to follow. Special notice should be given to Matt Davis - to this day he stands as the only man to play in every game of every season in every semester attended at TCNJ.
NOTE: We never won DIII. In the Fall of 1999 we were officially bumped up into Division II.
We were picked by Steven Cohen as one of the top 5 premier teams in this division. There was an overall re-bracketing of the entire men's collegiate program. We were bracketed as DII due to our overall success in dIII as well as our anticipated growth as a club.
(from best available information as of 10/4/2010)
Fall 1997/Spring 1998
TCNJ Rugby started with a simple flyer posted by Ralph Citarella. The propaganda worked, and after the first meeting there were 30 or so ex-football and soccer players bound together learning a completely new animal - the game of rugby. First practices were a comedy of errors taking place behind ABE. Eventually we were able to recruit an interim coach - Chris Kasner of the former Hibernians - who was able to add structure to the practices and single out positional players. The fall semester of 1997 consisted of no games per se, but it was able to weed out the weaker players and give glimpses of future standouts. Although no games were officially played, the team did attempt to have full contact games - on Astroturf. Several concussions and multiple carpet burns later, the team called it in for the semester and prepared for the spring.
The spring started off pretty much the same way the fall did. However now the team had a purpose. They had a non-sanctioned match against the Seton Hall Pirates A side. So the team did what needed to be done - prepare. With limited numbers and limited knowledge of the game, the players did their best to learn the game and acclimate themselves to the type of game they were about to jump headfirst into. Finally the big day came - the culmination of 2 semesters worth of preparation - and TCNJ didn't have enough players to field a full side. However, the Montclair Norsemen were kind enough to loan us some players to complete a side - we were not leaving without a match. It was obvious to all players involved we were an inexperienced team, however thru sheer will and determination the TCNJ squad pushed down the field and scored the first try in team history. Michael "The Pumpkin" Perentin completed an 8-man pickup by touching the ball on the post (it took us several minutes and a referees explanation to realize this was indeed a score since none of us had any idea what the rules were). TCNJ regrouped again in the 2nd half and was able to score a 2nd try. The man they call"Flap" picked up a ball in the open field and rumbled, stumbled, and bumbled his way into the try zone. In the end, the more experienced Seton Hall squad was victorious by a 3 point difference. Nonetheless it was a victory for us - TCNJ Rugby had officially begun. The World as we knew it would never again be the same.
Fall 1998
The season started out with the petitioning of the Eastern Pennsylvania Rugby Union for membership. The team was granted associate membership and TCNJ was officially bracketed into competitive rugby. The overall administrative structure of the team was testing a new theory of government - a 4 party system of checks and balances. Dubbed the "Four Horsemen" (Ralph Citarella, Joe Maringola, Mike Perentin, & Tony Cotroneo) they attempted to set the groundwork for a successful, enduring program. The system ultimately failed due to lack of communication and the administrative leadership was filtered down to Joe Maringola. Alone he acted as President/Match Secretary/Union liason/School liason. He filled these roles until his graduation in Spring of 2001. Ralph Citarella remained on and handled the Treasury duties, doing his best to con the school out of the most money possible. He did us proud - plus he was able to slide back into his natural role as captain.
The first game of the season was against Widener University Norsemen. An early test in the season for TCNJ, this game featured several promising rookies who would become part of the foundation of the team for several years. It was a hard fought battle, especially fielding the booming kicks from Widener player "Yoshi". However late into the 2nd half the game was within TCNJ reach, however due to a rookie's mistake in our try zone, Widener was able to pounce on the ball and leave with a win.
2nd match was against the Lafayette Norsemen. The field was the middle of farm country, directly next to an airport. And it was cold. TCNJ players braved it out, dug in and went punch for punch with the Norsemen, finally overpowering them in a convincing win. TCNJ has its first win. This day also saw the birth of a TCNJ tradition - the rookie chug. Stranded in the cornfields of Lafayette, Josh Elliot and Mark "Irish" Klimanskis became the first victims.
3rd and final divisional match was against St. Joes - it was more of a fist fight than a game and TCNJ was bested that day.
In a non-divisional game, TCNJ tried to test themselves with a match against a staple in east coast rugby, Princeton University. Besides being a school rich with rugby history, Princeton was Division 1 and national contenders. That didn't stop TCNJ - either out of sheer will or sheer stubborness, an 80 minute match was played and Princeton was victorious 48-5. The try scored by Joe "Little" Maringola still stands as the only try scored against Princeton. This would start one of TCNJ's first rivalries.
The season culminated with TCNJ earning the right to host the Division III Plate Championship. A rematch from earlier in the season, TCNJ & Widener butted heads once again. In front of a home crowd, TCNJ was able get its revenge, taking a convincing victory and with it the Plate Championship. TCNJ had its first piece of hardware.
Spring started with the same intensity as the spring - except we knew what we were doing.
Spring 2000
The upstart Lions felt a need for a challenge in the Spring of 2000. A tough schedule was plotted out against the best of the best teams in the EPRU, as well as some local favorites. TCNJ proved it was the dominant #2 school in the state with wins over both Rutgers & Montclair. TCNJ attempted to dethrone the mighty Princeton University, but again, TCNJ was outmatched by a skillful strong squad. To the credit of TCNJ no matter the score, no matter the injury (Ralph ripped open his ear yet again), they kept pounding back at them. Although a loss, the most memorable moment of the match is Lock Nick Lapolla's crushing hit to the Princeton scrumhalf ; the poor bloke woke up thinking he was Batman!
But the crowning moment (of sorts) was TCNJ's match against Kutztown University. TCNJ traveled 2 hours for a highly anticipated match against some big old Pennsylvania farm boys. Simply put, Kutztown was a highly skilled, well conditioned squad that dominated the pitch. However their skill in rugby did not match their sportsmanship. In the end, TCNJ was unable to provide a match as many of its players had been injured or were playing hurt. Captain Joe Maringola explained the situation to the head coach of Kutztown and shortly thereafter a melee ensued. 20 or so TCNJ players stood their ground to close to 60 farm boys; luckily cooler heads prevailed and while Little went toe to toe with the coach, TCNJ players made their way to their respective cars. TCNJ received a letter from Kutztown University banning TCNJ from playing ball at their fine institution.
Fall 2001
The Fall started off with the EPRU deeming the TCNJ Lions one of the most promising teams in Division II.
In the spring of 2001, the final chapter was written for most of the founding members of the club. A series of matches were scheduled pitting TCNJ against its fiercest rivals. TCNJ lost its first match to a tough Temple squad. TCNJ only showed up with 15 players but hung in strong the entire match and lost by a try. This game featured historic rucking performances by the men known simply as Muffin & Dumptruck. It also featured the first and only on-field decapitation by Flanker Jay Cairns.
TCNJ was able to fight thru the rest of the season with wins over Rutgers, Montclair, Upenn, & Swarthmore. TCNJ also challenged the pride and guts of several graduate and mens teams when it took part in the 1st annual Law Dogs tourney. Wins didn't matter in this tourney, it was simply a matter of proving TCNJ was the real deal and could go toe to toe with anyone, anytime. The stage had been set for the seniors last match. Home field ; TCNJ v/Temple - the rematch.
In a hard fought 80 minute battle, TCNJ was able to wear down and dominate Temple in all aspects of the game. When the final whistle blew, TCNJ walked off victorious & the seniors retired with the knowledge they had set the bar for all future teams to follow. Special notice should be given to Matt Davis - to this day he stands as the only man to play in every game of every season in every semester attended at TCNJ.
NOTE: We never won DIII. In the Fall of 1999 we were officially bumped up into Division II.
We were picked by Steven Cohen as one of the top 5 premier teams in this division. There was an overall re-bracketing of the entire men's collegiate program. We were bracketed as DII due to our overall success in dIII as well as our anticipated growth as a club.
The Game
History:
While playing soccer at Rugby School of England in 1823, William Webb Ellis picked up the ball in his hands and ran with it. This sparked an interest, leading to the creation of rugby. Cambridge University immediately adopted the game, popularized it and made local rules. The game grew popular at area schools and in 1871, ten years after the common rules of soccer were set, the first Rugby Union was founded in London and firm rules of the game were established. In 1895 rugby clubs in northern England called for compensation of lost wages for players. The Rugby Leauge was founded as a result and a 13-player game with altered rules were created for professionals.Rugby spread across the globe and competition emerged between countries. In the United States,the game emerged primarily on the West Coast. The lack of precise rules, ambiguities in the game and complexity of the sport drew a lot of United States players away from the game and major changes were invoked. In 1880 the scrum was replaced by a line of scrimmage, drawing emphasis from the free-running characteristic of the game. The game continued to play with rugby rules until 1905 where the publication of photographs of a harsh game between Sarthmore and Pennsylvalia created a stir. President Theodore Roosevelt insisted on reform of the game to lower the brutality with threat of abolishing the game by edict. In 1906 the forward pass was introduced to the United States game. The rules of rugby died and the game of American football was born. Rugby continued to flourish elsewhere, with especial regard to Britain, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. Although a handful of clubs remained in the United States, rugby did not reemerge until the 1960's. College campuses turned to the sport because it was one where many could play and escape the rigid discipline and professionalism inherent in college football. Minimal costs, constant action and the opportunity for freqent play with a primary emphasis on fun also attracted many. The number of clubs grew from about 80 to over 1,000 between 1964 and 1980. The United States of America Rugby Football Union (USARFU) was formed in 1975, creating added recognition and a measure of organization. The sport continues to grow and now played in over 80 countries worldwide. The rules of rugby continue to evolve and amateurism remains as dominant characteristic.
Rules:
Rugby is a popular game played by men and women of every race and creed, from under age five to well over fifty, in over 100 countries of the world. In a few of those countries it is the national sport -- some say religion. The basic game involves 15 players though seven-a-side tournaments are also popular. The object of the game is to score as many points as possible by carrying, passing, kicking and grounding an oval ball in the scoring zone at the far end of the field -- called the in-goal area. Grounding the ball, which must be done with downward pressure, results in a try (worth 5 points). After a try a conversion may be attempted by place kick or drop kick. If the ball passes over the bar and between the goal posts the conversion is successful and results in a further 2 points. Points may also be scored from a drop kick in general play (worth 3 points) and a penalty kick (worth 3 points). The ball may not be passed forward (though it may be kicked forward) and players may not receive the ball in an offside position, nor may they wait in such a position. Players may not be tackled without the ball. Play only stops when a try is scored, or the ball goes out of play, or an infringement occurs. When the ball goes out it is thrown back in at a line-out where the opposing "forwards" line up and jump for the ball. Infringements result in a penalty, or free kick, or scrum. In a scrum the opposing forwards bind together in a unit and push against the other forwards, trying to win the ball with their feet. Substitutions are only allowed in case of injury and there is no separate offensive and defensive unit.
Players:
15 people play at a time per side
Number Position
1 Prop (loose-head)
2 Hooker
3 Prop (light-head)4 Lock
5 Lock
6 Flanker
7 Flanker
8 Eight-Man
9 Scrum Half
10 Fly Half
11 Wing (weak side)
12 Inside Center
13 Outside Center
14 Wing (strong side)
15 Fullback
Officials:
The referee controls the game and sees that the players maintain good conduct and obey the laws of rugby. There is only one referee and that person is the only judge, timekeeper and scorekeeper. There are two touch judges, one appointed by each team. They stand outside the touch line and follow the play. If the ball is kicked out of touch, the touch judge on that side lifts the flag and stands perpendicular to where the ball went out to mark it. The touch judges also determine if a goal kick is successful. The referee still has absolute authority and makes the end decision even if both touch judges disagree. The team coaches are not allowed to influence the team once they are on the field. Thus a captain is appointed for each team. The captain makes plays, encourages and leads the team. This person is the only means of communication between the team and the referee. Players are not allowed to address the referee unless they are called upon.
The Pitch (field):
The field used is grass with the usual exception of mud.The length of the field cannot exceed 100 meters (110 yards) and the width cannot exceed 69 meters (75 yards). Each try zone cannot exceed 22 meters (25 yards) in length. Goal posts similar to those used in American football and shaped in the form of an "H" stand on the goal line at opposite ends of the field, at the beginning of each try zone. The lines usually drawn inside the field are 22 meters (25 yards) off goal, 10 meters (10 yards) off halfway and the halfway line. Also, a 5 meter (5 yard) alley is drawn along the lengths of the field measured off the touch line (out of bounds).
Equipment:
Players do not wear any padding or protection except for a mouthguard. The traditional uniform consists of a long sleeve cotton shirt with a collar. Shorts are usually cotton and rise to about mid-thigh. Knee-length socks with turnover tops are worn along with boots similar to soccer cleats. There are strict rules governing the kinds of cleats used. An optional piece of equipment is the scrum cap worn by some forwards which is made from leather or cloth and worn as protection for the ears. A frequently used substitute is electrical tape. Any other item than whatis listed is usually not allowed in play with the inclusion of jewelry. The ball comes in many sizes.It is shaped like an American football, but is larger. The standard length is about 285 mm (11 inches) and the standard center circumfrence is about 630 mm (24 inches).
Terms:
Advantage
A method of referee. The referee allows the game to proceed uninterrupted as long as the ball is in play and there are no major infractions. Play can continue after an infraction if the non-offending team gains an advantage.
Blind Side
The side nearest to the touch line.
Drop kick
A kick technique where the ball is dropped to the ground and as it bounces back up it is kicked.
Dummy
A technique where one pretends to pass the ball.
Free kick
Kick where a score may be made. Can be taken as a place kick, drop kick or if no score is attempted, a punt.
Grubber kick
A kick technique where the ball bounces along the ground.
Knock-on
Where a player propells the ball toward the opponent's goal line. This results in a penalty.
Line-out
A play where two single file lines are formed by both teams after the ball goes out of touch. A player from the team that did not take it out throws the ball back in from the touch line between the two lines. This brings the ball back into play and determines which team recieves the ball.
Maul
A loose formation brought around a player who is still in posession of the ball and has not been brounght to the ground.
Obstruction
Also called blocking. Where a player gets in the way of an opponent who is chasing after the ball. This results in a penalty.
Off-side
Generally when a player is in front of the ball when it was played last by a team member. A penalty occurs if a player is off-side and obstructs an opponent, plays the ball or is within 10 meters (10 yards) of an opponent playing the ball.
Penalty kick
Kick awarded to the non-offending team after a penalty occurs.
Place kick
A kick technique where the ball is place on the ground before being kicked.
Punt kick
A kick technique where the ball is dropped and kicked before it touches the ground.
Ruck
A loose formation created around a free ball or a player who has been brought to the ground with the ball.
Scrummage (scrum)
A tight formation between the two opposing teams in readiness for the ball to be put in the tunnel between the two front rows and brought out into play.
Try
Method of scoring worth 5 points by touching the ball down in the opponent's goal area.
Literature:
Why Rugby
by Robert Wagner
It is tempting when trying to define "why" rugby to simplify it all to a few bumper stickers ("Rugby... Because"; "Rugby, The Only Game Our Mothers Let Us Play"; "In Rugby There Are No Winners, Only Survivors). But, of course, it is far more complicated than that. Notice, for instance, that the subject of this chapter is not "why play rugby," it is WHY RUGBY. This fine differentiation does not have to be explained to ruggers, but for the new or uninitiated, it does bear some discussion. Note also that "WHY RUGBY" is both a question and a statement, or perhaps a question without a question mark or a statement in question form. How appropriate that the topic itself should break the rules, even if they are the rules of grammar and punctuation. Rugby is not, "like soccer," as we all to often hear. Such a statement is a blasphemy of the good name of Rugby. Rugby is a natural evolution from soccer. Soccer, being the Neanderthal precursor to Rugby. The game of Rugby-football started with a man, William Web Ellis, following his finely developed instincts by picking up the ball in a soccer match and running with it (i.e. he broke a rule he recognized as stupid and limiting, starting a fine tradition of civil disobedience that was later adopted by Gahndi and King). Emerson said a mouthful when he said "whoso would be a man, must be a nonconformist. He who would gather mortal palms must not be hindered by the name of goodness, but must explore if it be goodness," (but then he had a nasty habit of being profound) It could well be the rugby player's credo. You will find so many drawn to the game because they want to try something different, something exciting and new, and something that others may be just a bit fearful of. If that is not necessarily why they come to the game, they soon find a certain perverse pleasure in watching and listening to people's reactions when they tell them, "I play rugby." Most often the listener gets a strange look on their face, or grimace, and says, "Rugby, that's pretty rough, isn't it?" "Yeah, kinda," you respond as they look you up and down and wonder what manner of person is this?!. This, then, results in the statement changing from "I play rugby," to, "I am a rugby player." A subtle but important difference as the first phrase states what one does, the second defines whom one is. Simply (and frequently) put, Rugby is not a game, it is a life style. Its essence is not drawn simply from the physical competition on the pitch, but also from camaraderie that develops from sharing such an uncommon--common bond. It starts on the field but is reinforced during the post game gatherings (ok, ok, the party) when opponents break bread and toast each other with drink and song. The party is a celebration not just for the victors, but also for the vanquished (and a chance for a redemption of sorts by "winning" the, um, gathering). It is a unique endeavor in athletics.Whereas Vince Lombardi speaks for most competitive sport in saying, "Winning isn't everything, it is the only thing," the rugger, who still wishes to win, values the test of competition and the spirit of the game even more. So perhaps it can all be reduced to a bumper sticker after all {sigh}, "in rugby there are no winners, only survivors." And we survive well together, teammates and opponents alike. Finally, people play rugby because it is not football, and it is not soccer, and it is not any of the other sport you can think of. It is different, it is unique, it is rugby. More than a game, more than simple competition, flying in the face of what is expected of the American athlete. Rugby players are nothing, if not nonconformists. Ralph Waldo (yes, we're on a first name basis) would be proud, and would no doubt have captained the all-intellectual and social selects first 15, probably at eight-man (if he brought his own ball). We few, we proud, we ruggers must never forget our ideals, our objectives and our principles lest we become just another game that values winning above all else. Rugby has always been above that. It is about camaraderie and sportsmanship. Other sports often pay only lip service to those ideals, rugby exemplifies them. Mr. Robert Frost also captures the spirit of the game in "The Road Not Taken." Read on, and enjoy... and do not forget to read the explanation below the poem.
The Road Not Taken
By Robert Frost
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
It's a little known nonfact that this was written by Frost to explain to his parents why he played rugby. They were adequately confused, mumbled their thanks, and wandered down to the local pub to lament the strange turn their son had taken. "If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away."
--Henry David Thoreau (writing of ruggers, I'm sure)
While playing soccer at Rugby School of England in 1823, William Webb Ellis picked up the ball in his hands and ran with it. This sparked an interest, leading to the creation of rugby. Cambridge University immediately adopted the game, popularized it and made local rules. The game grew popular at area schools and in 1871, ten years after the common rules of soccer were set, the first Rugby Union was founded in London and firm rules of the game were established. In 1895 rugby clubs in northern England called for compensation of lost wages for players. The Rugby Leauge was founded as a result and a 13-player game with altered rules were created for professionals.Rugby spread across the globe and competition emerged between countries. In the United States,the game emerged primarily on the West Coast. The lack of precise rules, ambiguities in the game and complexity of the sport drew a lot of United States players away from the game and major changes were invoked. In 1880 the scrum was replaced by a line of scrimmage, drawing emphasis from the free-running characteristic of the game. The game continued to play with rugby rules until 1905 where the publication of photographs of a harsh game between Sarthmore and Pennsylvalia created a stir. President Theodore Roosevelt insisted on reform of the game to lower the brutality with threat of abolishing the game by edict. In 1906 the forward pass was introduced to the United States game. The rules of rugby died and the game of American football was born. Rugby continued to flourish elsewhere, with especial regard to Britain, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. Although a handful of clubs remained in the United States, rugby did not reemerge until the 1960's. College campuses turned to the sport because it was one where many could play and escape the rigid discipline and professionalism inherent in college football. Minimal costs, constant action and the opportunity for freqent play with a primary emphasis on fun also attracted many. The number of clubs grew from about 80 to over 1,000 between 1964 and 1980. The United States of America Rugby Football Union (USARFU) was formed in 1975, creating added recognition and a measure of organization. The sport continues to grow and now played in over 80 countries worldwide. The rules of rugby continue to evolve and amateurism remains as dominant characteristic.
Rules:
Rugby is a popular game played by men and women of every race and creed, from under age five to well over fifty, in over 100 countries of the world. In a few of those countries it is the national sport -- some say religion. The basic game involves 15 players though seven-a-side tournaments are also popular. The object of the game is to score as many points as possible by carrying, passing, kicking and grounding an oval ball in the scoring zone at the far end of the field -- called the in-goal area. Grounding the ball, which must be done with downward pressure, results in a try (worth 5 points). After a try a conversion may be attempted by place kick or drop kick. If the ball passes over the bar and between the goal posts the conversion is successful and results in a further 2 points. Points may also be scored from a drop kick in general play (worth 3 points) and a penalty kick (worth 3 points). The ball may not be passed forward (though it may be kicked forward) and players may not receive the ball in an offside position, nor may they wait in such a position. Players may not be tackled without the ball. Play only stops when a try is scored, or the ball goes out of play, or an infringement occurs. When the ball goes out it is thrown back in at a line-out where the opposing "forwards" line up and jump for the ball. Infringements result in a penalty, or free kick, or scrum. In a scrum the opposing forwards bind together in a unit and push against the other forwards, trying to win the ball with their feet. Substitutions are only allowed in case of injury and there is no separate offensive and defensive unit.
Players:
15 people play at a time per side
Number Position
1 Prop (loose-head)
2 Hooker
3 Prop (light-head)4 Lock
5 Lock
6 Flanker
7 Flanker
8 Eight-Man
9 Scrum Half
10 Fly Half
11 Wing (weak side)
12 Inside Center
13 Outside Center
14 Wing (strong side)
15 Fullback
Officials:
The referee controls the game and sees that the players maintain good conduct and obey the laws of rugby. There is only one referee and that person is the only judge, timekeeper and scorekeeper. There are two touch judges, one appointed by each team. They stand outside the touch line and follow the play. If the ball is kicked out of touch, the touch judge on that side lifts the flag and stands perpendicular to where the ball went out to mark it. The touch judges also determine if a goal kick is successful. The referee still has absolute authority and makes the end decision even if both touch judges disagree. The team coaches are not allowed to influence the team once they are on the field. Thus a captain is appointed for each team. The captain makes plays, encourages and leads the team. This person is the only means of communication between the team and the referee. Players are not allowed to address the referee unless they are called upon.
The Pitch (field):
The field used is grass with the usual exception of mud.The length of the field cannot exceed 100 meters (110 yards) and the width cannot exceed 69 meters (75 yards). Each try zone cannot exceed 22 meters (25 yards) in length. Goal posts similar to those used in American football and shaped in the form of an "H" stand on the goal line at opposite ends of the field, at the beginning of each try zone. The lines usually drawn inside the field are 22 meters (25 yards) off goal, 10 meters (10 yards) off halfway and the halfway line. Also, a 5 meter (5 yard) alley is drawn along the lengths of the field measured off the touch line (out of bounds).
Equipment:
Players do not wear any padding or protection except for a mouthguard. The traditional uniform consists of a long sleeve cotton shirt with a collar. Shorts are usually cotton and rise to about mid-thigh. Knee-length socks with turnover tops are worn along with boots similar to soccer cleats. There are strict rules governing the kinds of cleats used. An optional piece of equipment is the scrum cap worn by some forwards which is made from leather or cloth and worn as protection for the ears. A frequently used substitute is electrical tape. Any other item than whatis listed is usually not allowed in play with the inclusion of jewelry. The ball comes in many sizes.It is shaped like an American football, but is larger. The standard length is about 285 mm (11 inches) and the standard center circumfrence is about 630 mm (24 inches).
Terms:
Advantage
A method of referee. The referee allows the game to proceed uninterrupted as long as the ball is in play and there are no major infractions. Play can continue after an infraction if the non-offending team gains an advantage.
Blind Side
The side nearest to the touch line.
Drop kick
A kick technique where the ball is dropped to the ground and as it bounces back up it is kicked.
Dummy
A technique where one pretends to pass the ball.
Free kick
Kick where a score may be made. Can be taken as a place kick, drop kick or if no score is attempted, a punt.
Grubber kick
A kick technique where the ball bounces along the ground.
Knock-on
Where a player propells the ball toward the opponent's goal line. This results in a penalty.
Line-out
A play where two single file lines are formed by both teams after the ball goes out of touch. A player from the team that did not take it out throws the ball back in from the touch line between the two lines. This brings the ball back into play and determines which team recieves the ball.
Maul
A loose formation brought around a player who is still in posession of the ball and has not been brounght to the ground.
Obstruction
Also called blocking. Where a player gets in the way of an opponent who is chasing after the ball. This results in a penalty.
Off-side
Generally when a player is in front of the ball when it was played last by a team member. A penalty occurs if a player is off-side and obstructs an opponent, plays the ball or is within 10 meters (10 yards) of an opponent playing the ball.
Penalty kick
Kick awarded to the non-offending team after a penalty occurs.
Place kick
A kick technique where the ball is place on the ground before being kicked.
Punt kick
A kick technique where the ball is dropped and kicked before it touches the ground.
Ruck
A loose formation created around a free ball or a player who has been brought to the ground with the ball.
Scrummage (scrum)
A tight formation between the two opposing teams in readiness for the ball to be put in the tunnel between the two front rows and brought out into play.
Try
Method of scoring worth 5 points by touching the ball down in the opponent's goal area.
Literature:
Why Rugby
by Robert Wagner
It is tempting when trying to define "why" rugby to simplify it all to a few bumper stickers ("Rugby... Because"; "Rugby, The Only Game Our Mothers Let Us Play"; "In Rugby There Are No Winners, Only Survivors). But, of course, it is far more complicated than that. Notice, for instance, that the subject of this chapter is not "why play rugby," it is WHY RUGBY. This fine differentiation does not have to be explained to ruggers, but for the new or uninitiated, it does bear some discussion. Note also that "WHY RUGBY" is both a question and a statement, or perhaps a question without a question mark or a statement in question form. How appropriate that the topic itself should break the rules, even if they are the rules of grammar and punctuation. Rugby is not, "like soccer," as we all to often hear. Such a statement is a blasphemy of the good name of Rugby. Rugby is a natural evolution from soccer. Soccer, being the Neanderthal precursor to Rugby. The game of Rugby-football started with a man, William Web Ellis, following his finely developed instincts by picking up the ball in a soccer match and running with it (i.e. he broke a rule he recognized as stupid and limiting, starting a fine tradition of civil disobedience that was later adopted by Gahndi and King). Emerson said a mouthful when he said "whoso would be a man, must be a nonconformist. He who would gather mortal palms must not be hindered by the name of goodness, but must explore if it be goodness," (but then he had a nasty habit of being profound) It could well be the rugby player's credo. You will find so many drawn to the game because they want to try something different, something exciting and new, and something that others may be just a bit fearful of. If that is not necessarily why they come to the game, they soon find a certain perverse pleasure in watching and listening to people's reactions when they tell them, "I play rugby." Most often the listener gets a strange look on their face, or grimace, and says, "Rugby, that's pretty rough, isn't it?" "Yeah, kinda," you respond as they look you up and down and wonder what manner of person is this?!. This, then, results in the statement changing from "I play rugby," to, "I am a rugby player." A subtle but important difference as the first phrase states what one does, the second defines whom one is. Simply (and frequently) put, Rugby is not a game, it is a life style. Its essence is not drawn simply from the physical competition on the pitch, but also from camaraderie that develops from sharing such an uncommon--common bond. It starts on the field but is reinforced during the post game gatherings (ok, ok, the party) when opponents break bread and toast each other with drink and song. The party is a celebration not just for the victors, but also for the vanquished (and a chance for a redemption of sorts by "winning" the, um, gathering). It is a unique endeavor in athletics.Whereas Vince Lombardi speaks for most competitive sport in saying, "Winning isn't everything, it is the only thing," the rugger, who still wishes to win, values the test of competition and the spirit of the game even more. So perhaps it can all be reduced to a bumper sticker after all {sigh}, "in rugby there are no winners, only survivors." And we survive well together, teammates and opponents alike. Finally, people play rugby because it is not football, and it is not soccer, and it is not any of the other sport you can think of. It is different, it is unique, it is rugby. More than a game, more than simple competition, flying in the face of what is expected of the American athlete. Rugby players are nothing, if not nonconformists. Ralph Waldo (yes, we're on a first name basis) would be proud, and would no doubt have captained the all-intellectual and social selects first 15, probably at eight-man (if he brought his own ball). We few, we proud, we ruggers must never forget our ideals, our objectives and our principles lest we become just another game that values winning above all else. Rugby has always been above that. It is about camaraderie and sportsmanship. Other sports often pay only lip service to those ideals, rugby exemplifies them. Mr. Robert Frost also captures the spirit of the game in "The Road Not Taken." Read on, and enjoy... and do not forget to read the explanation below the poem.
The Road Not Taken
By Robert Frost
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
It's a little known nonfact that this was written by Frost to explain to his parents why he played rugby. They were adequately confused, mumbled their thanks, and wandered down to the local pub to lament the strange turn their son had taken. "If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away."
--Henry David Thoreau (writing of ruggers, I'm sure)