The Passion for Rugby

With the end of the Rugby World Cup Sevens 2022 on 11^th September 2022, my interest was piqued to find out more about this sport and the female athletes. I found the women’s matches just as thrilling as the men matches. Growing up in the Pacific, rugby was a popular sport however watching the flying tackles and ground jostling throws was enough to convince me it was not the sport for me. Clearly other women are passionate about playing this sport though.

In earlier times and some societies, women were considered delicate creatures, who were weak and feeble, probably in some part to do with tight corsets that pressed on the organs, causing breathlessness and fainting spells. I like corset fashion so thankfully the designs have evolved since those times. Being able to perform heavy labor was considered unladylike so participating in what was seen as a rough sport such as rugby was seen as socially improper for the times. A few defiant and determined women did attempt to play the game even when they encountered obstacles and objections. 

Women’s participation in the sport was filled with ups and downs. Their games were occasionally banned, they were sometimes ridiculed and there were discussions of whether it was socially appropriate for women to participate in the game of rugby. With the perseverance of women in history, today, other women who choose to, can enjoy playing rugby.

Women's rugby continues to gain popularity and sports in general has been found to offer benefits for physical and mental well being such improving self-esteem and helping to build confidence levels among players. Rugby is a high-intensity contact sport. It requires speed, strength, and agility. If you have the talent and motivation, maybe it could be your next hobby or maybe even a career! Watch out for the Rugby World Cup 2021 (not a typo, it was delayed) that will kick off in October 2022 in New Zealand and see the women who are playing ball.  

Image Credits: Image by Kev from Pixabay