Rugby Teams: History, Formats and Tactics

When talking about Rugby Teams, organized groups of players that compete in rugby union or rugby league competitions. Also known as rugby squads, they form the backbone of the sport. Rugby Union, the 15‑player version of the sport with set‑pieces like scrums and lineouts and Rugby League, the 13‑player faster‑paced code with a tackle count are the two main codes. A third key concept is the Lineout, a set‑piece used to restart play from the sideline in union. These entities interact: rugby teams encompass both union and league clubs, union requires lineouts, and lineouts shape team strategies.

Rugby teams first appeared in the 19th century when schoolboys at Rugby School started playing a version of football with a handling game. That informal group evolved into the first clubs, like Leicester Tigers and Halifax. Early clubs were linked to local towns or factories, giving them a community identity. The shift from a school pastime to organized teams created the foundation for the sport’s modern structure. Understanding this origin helps explain why many teams still carry historic names and colours that reflect their roots.

Today, teams split into two major codes: rugby union and rugby league. Union teams field fifteen players, focus on set‑pieces, and often compete in leagues like the Premiership or the Gallagher Premiership. League teams play thirteen, use a six‑tackle rule, and compete in competitions such as the Super League. The choice of code influences everything from training routines to fan culture. For anyone looking to join or support a side, knowing which code the team belongs to is the first step.

One of the most recognizable tactics for union teams is the lineout. When the ball goes out of bounds, the forwards line up and lift a teammate to catch the throw. This move requires precise timing and teamwork, turning a simple restart into a chance to launch an attack. League teams don’t use lineouts; instead, they restart with a scrum or a tap. These tactical differences shape how coaches build their squads and how players specialize in certain skills.

The growth of rugby teams isn’t limited to the UK. In the United States, rugby teams are spreading thanks to the work of USA Rugby, the national governing body. USA Rugby runs development programs, organizes regional leagues, and supports clubs in building youth pipelines. Their efforts have led to more clubs forming in colleges and cities, slowly turning rugby into a recognizable sport in a country dominated by American football. The push by USA Rugby shows how a governing body can influence the formation and success of new teams.

Every rugby team has a hierarchy that mirrors the sport’s demands. At the top sit the coaches who plan tactics like lineouts or set‑piece plays. Below them are captains who lead on the field and make real‑time decisions. The player roster is split into forwards—who focus on physical contests and set‑pieces—and backs—who handle speed and scoring. This structure ensures each team can execute the complex strategies required in both union and league matches.

Fan culture around rugby teams adds another layer to the sport. Supporters often travel to away games, chant songs, and wear team colours proudly. In the UK, club rivalries can be centuries old, while in the US new rivalries are forming as clubs grow. This community spirit helps teams attract sponsors, secure facilities, and maintain a pipeline of talent from schools and universities.

Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into each of these topics. From the history of rugby’s birthplace to the challenges of gaining traction in the United States, the posts cover everything you need to know about rugby teams, their codes, key tactics and future growth.