LEARN THE GAME. JOIN THE PACK.
Learn the basics of rugby with the Seattle Seawolves. From scoring and rules to player positions, tackling, respect, and matchday culture, this series makes rugby simple and fun for new and longtime fans.
THE STORY OF RUGBY
Get to know the history of the game and how professional rugby has grown in the United States.
PLAY WITH RESPECT
Respect, safety, and fair play are at the heart of rugby—on and off the pitch.
SAFETY STARTS HERE
Learn the equipment, techniques, and shared responsibility that help keep rugby safe for everyone.
HOW SCORING WORKS
From tries and conversions to penalty kicks, here’s how points are earned in rugby.
SET PIECES, EXPLAINED
Scrums and lineouts restart play and create key moments in every match.
MEET THE POSITIONS
A rugby team has 15 players: eight forwards who contest possession and seven backs who create space and attack.
KNOW THE PITCH
Learn the key lines, zones, and markings that shape every rugby match.
SPEAK RUGBY
A few helpful terms to help you follow the action with confidence.
What is a try?
A try is scored when a player grounds the ball in the opponent’s in-goal area. It is worth five points.
What is a conversion?
After a try, the scoring team can kick for two additional points. The kick is taken in line with where the try was scored.
What is a knock-on?
A knock-on happens when a player loses the ball forward from their hands or arms. Play usually restarts with a scrum for the other team.
What is a ruck?
A ruck forms after a tackle when players from both teams compete for the ball on the ground using their feet.
What is a scrum?
A scrum is a method of restarting play, usually after a minor infringement. Eight forwards from each team bind together and compete for possession.
What is a lineout?
A lineout restarts play after the ball goes out of bounds. Players lift teammates to compete for the thrown ball.
What does advantage mean?
1. When a team commits an infringement, the referee may allow play to continue if the non-offending team has an opportunity to benefit.
READY FOR MATCHDAY?
SEE RUGBY IN PERSON
Put your new rugby knowledge to work and experience the Seattle Seawolves at Starfire Stadium.