What is rugby called in England?

Introduction

Hello there, fellow sports enthusiasts. Today we will be diving deep into the world of rugby. Specifically, we will be focusing on what rugby is called in England. You might think, isn't it just called rugby? Well, let's get into the details and see if we can uncover some interesting facts about this thrilling sport.

Origins of Rugby

The game of rugby traces its roots back to the Rugby School in England. It all started back in 1823 when a young man named William Webb Ellis decided to pick up the ball and run with it during a game of football. This was considered a radical move and created the foundation for the sport we know as rugby today. So in a sense, rugby is called "Rugby" in England, named after the place where it all began.

Two Forms of Rugby

While the sport is universally known as rugby, there are actually two distinct forms of the game - Rugby Union and Rugby League. The game initially started as one, but a split occurred in 1895 due to a disagreement over player payments. Rugby Union remained an amateur sport, while Rugby League became a professional one. In England, when people refer to rugby, they could be talking about either of these two forms.

Rugby Union

Rugby Union, often simply referred to as 'rugby', is the most common and popular form in England. It involves teams of 15 players and is known for its intricate rules and emphasis on continuity and possession. The Rugby Union has its own world cup, which is one of the largest sporting events globally.

Rugby League

On the other hand, Rugby League is often called 'league'. It involves teams of 13 players and has a different set of rules compared to Rugby Union. The game is more straightforward, with a greater emphasis on speed and scoring. While it is not as popular as Rugby Union in England, it enjoys significant popularity in areas like Yorkshire and Lancashire.

Footy

There is also a colloquial term used to refer to rugby in England, especially Rugby League, and that is 'footy'. This term is quite common in the northern parts of England where Rugby League is more popular. However, it's worth noting that 'footy' can also refer to football (soccer), depending on the context and region.

Rugger

'Rugger' is another term used informally to refer to Rugby Union in England. It's a term that came from the old schoolyard slang and is still used in certain circles today. So if you hear someone talking about a 'rugger match', you now know that they're referring to a Rugby Union game.

Conclusion

So, what is rugby called in England? Well, it's called rugby, league, footy, or rugger, depending on the form of the game and who you're talking to. The sport's name may vary, but one thing remains constant - the passion, intensity, and love for the game that is deeply ingrained in the heart of England.

Quiz Time

Now that you're well-versed in the various names for rugby in England, why not test your knowledge? Take our fun quiz and see how much you really know about this beloved sport. Remember, whether it's called rugby, league, footy, or rugger, it's all about the thrill of the game!