Why Football Players Should Add Rugby To Their Playbook

The Benefits of Playing Both Rugby and Football

I encourage all my players to join Mother Lode Rugby – they come back in better shape and better tacklers – Kevin Placek, Head Coach El Dorado Highschool Football

Many of the Mother Lode Rugby coaches have played both football and rugby and we have seen firsthand the benefits to a player’s football career that can come from playing rugby in the offseason. If you’re a football player or a parent of one, here’s why you should consider adding rugby to your athletic repertoire:

1. Rugby’s emphasis on proper tackling technique can significantly benefit football players. In rugby, players learn to tackle safely and effectively without helmets or pads, focusing on wrapping up the opponent and driving with the legs. This translates to better form tackling in football, reducing the risk of injury and increasing defensive effectiveness.

2. Enhanced Ball-Handling Skills

Rugby requires all players to handle the ball, pass, and catch regularly. This constant engagement with the ball improves hand-eye coordination, ball security, and spatial awareness – all crucial skills for football players in any position.

3. Increased Cardiovascular Endurance

Rugby is a non-stop game with minimal substitutions, demanding excellent cardiovascular fitness. This endurance translates directly to football, helping players maintain peak performance throughout an entire game.

4. Versatility and Adaptability

Rugby players must be prepared to play offense and defense, often switching roles mid-play. This versatility develops a more well-rounded athlete, capable of understanding and executing various roles on the football field.

5. Improved Decision-Making Under Pressure

The fast-paced nature of rugby, with its continuous play and lack of set plays, forces players to make quick decisions under pressure. This skill is invaluable in football, particularly for quarterbacks and team leaders.

6. Off-Season Conditioning

Rugby season typically complements the football calendar, making it an excellent off-season activity to maintain fitness and further develop athleticism.

7. Enhanced Teamwork and Communication

Rugby’s structure encourages constant communication and teamwork on the field. These skills transfer seamlessly to football, improving on-field coordination and team dynamics.

8. Reduced Risk of Early Specialization

Playing multiple sports, like rugby and football, can help prevent burnout and reduce the risk of overuse injuries associated with early sport specialization.

9. Expanded Recruiting Opportunities

As rugby continues to grow in popularity, more colleges are offering rugby programs and scholarships. Playing both sports can open up additional avenues for athletic scholarships and college recruitment. Many Mother Lode players have gone on to player collegiate rugby

10. Fun and Fresh Perspective

Rugby offers a new and exciting challenge for football players, helping to keep their love for sports fresh and invigorating their overall athletic experience.

Conclusion:

Incorporating rugby into a young football player’s athletic journey can lead to significant improvements in their overall skills, fitness, and enjoyment of sports. The complementary nature of these two sports creates well-rounded athletes with a diverse skill set and a broader perspective on team sports.

We invite young football players and their parents to give rugby a try. Join us for a practice or attend one of our informational sessions to learn more about how rugby can benefit your football career and overall athletic development. Together, let’s create versatile, skilled, and passionate athletes ready to excel in both sports and life.

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