How To Play Tag Rugby: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

You probably know what rugby is by now. But have you heard of tag rugby?

There has been a rise in recent years about the popularity of this variation of the sport, and it’s understandable.

Take the fundamentals of traditional rugby but make it non-contact sport. Imagine the rugby that you know minus the rough and tumble nature of tackles.

Get the picture? Now, let’s get to know this discipline more.

Introduction to Tag Rugby

Equipment and Field Setup

So what do you need to get started?

• Tag belts with two velcro tags
• A rugby ball (slightly smaller than the one used in rugby union)
• A pitch (about half the size of a standard rugby field)

The International Tag Federation sets the rules, but local leagues might have slight variations.

Always check with your local organisers for specific requirements.

Rules and Gameplay

Tag rugby is all about keeping the game flowing.

Here are the key rules:

• Teams usually have 7 players each on the field
• Score tries by grounding the ball over the try line (like in regular rugby)
• No kicking allowed (sorry, no conversions or penalties!)
• Players can’t hand off defenders or protect their tags
• Once tagged, the player must stop and pass within 3 steps or 3 seconds

Tag rugby is a great way to be introduced to the sport for kids and adults alike. And Rugby Football Union approves it!

Basic Skills and Techniques

To excel in tag rugby, focus on these skills:

Passing and Catching

• Practice the basic ‘push pass’ – it’s quick and accurate
• Keep your hands up and ready to catch at all times
• Communicate clearly with your teammates

Evasion and Running with the Ball

• Use sidesteps and changes of pace to avoid defenders
• Keep the ball in two hands to make quick passes
• Look for gaps in the defence, not unlike the legendary Jonah Lomu

Defensive Positioning and Tagging

• Stay light on your feet and ready to move
• Aim for the tags, not the player’s body
• Work as a team to create a defensive line

Remember, good defence wins games in tag rugby just like in rugby union.

Strategies and Tactics

Thinking strategically can give you an edge:

Attacking Plays

• Use ‘loops’ and ‘switches’ to confuse defenders
• Create overlaps by drawing defenders before passing
• Maintain width to stretch the defence

Defensive Formations

• Adopt a ‘flat line’ defence to pressure the attack
• Communicate to slide across and cover gaps
• Don’t bunch up – spread out to cover more ground

Set Pieces and Restarts

• Use ‘tap and go’ to restart quickly after infringements
• Practice set plays from restarts to catch opponents off guard

These strategies might not be as complex as those used at Twickenham Stadium, but they’re effective for tag rugby.

Getting Started with Tag Rugby

Ready to give it a go? Here’s how to get started:

• Look for local tag rugby leagues or social teams
• Many rugby clubs offer tag rugby sessions for beginners
• It’s for everyone, whether you’re fit or fat, as it’s a great way to improve your cardio

Advanced Techniques and Strategies

The moment you check all the fundamentals, you can proceed in trying these advanced moves:

The ‘Dummy Pass’

• Pretend to pass, then run through the gap created
• Timing is crucial – sell the fake with your eyes and hands

The ‘Loop Play’

• Pass to a teammate, then run around behind them to receive the ball again
• Great for creating confusion in the defence

‘Scissors’ Move

• Two attackers cross paths, with one passing to the other
• Effective for wrong-footing defenders

Remember, World Rugby encourages creative play in all forms of the game, including tag rugby.

Fitness for Tag Rugby

To excel in tag rugby, focus on:

• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) for bursts of speed
• Agility drills to improve your footwork
• Core exercises for better balance and coordination

A mix of cardio and strength training will help you stay fast and strong throughout the game.

Tag Rugby Tournaments and Leagues

As you improve, consider:

• Joining a local league for regular matches
• Participating in tag rugby tournament
• Watching professional tag rugby games for inspiration

The International Tag Federation organizes various events worldwide.

Tag Rugby for Different Age Groups

Benefits of Playing Tag Rugby

Tag rugby offers numerous advantages:

• Improves fitness and agility
• Develops teamwork and communication skills
• Provides a safe introduction to rugby concepts
• Suitable for mixed-gender teams
• Great for social interaction and making friends

It’s no wonder tag rugby is growing in popularity worldwide!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Watch out for these typical beginner errors:

• Holding onto the ball too long after being tagged
• Forgetting to return tags to opponents after tagging them
• Passing the ball forward (it’s still not allowed in tag rugby!)
• Diving or sliding to score (stay on your feet)

Conclusion

Tag rugby is the best way to get into the sport without having the fear of getting hurt. The non-contact nature keeps players fit while also aiding the development of essential rugby skills.

But it’s not just for beginners as even pros can take the sport, making it an fun activity for everyone.

It’s rugby without getting hurt, focusing more on the basics which is leaned on teamwork, communication, and constant movement.

FAQs