How Did Rugby Start? Who Discovered this Popular Sport?

By John O. Ndar

Rugby’s origins are generally traced to early 19th century England.

While earlier ball games primarily involved kicking and carrying a ball, the distinctive characteristics of rugby- as we know it today- began to emerge around this period.

Interestingly, the specific details of rugby’s origin aren’t precise—some trace rugby's roots to various ball games in ancient civilizations like Greece and Rome. The games often involved kicking or carrying a ball and were played for recreation and military training.

Others believe the game evolved from earlier forms of football played at English public schools.

Identifying the “Father of Rugby”

In medieval Europe, a game called "mob football" was popular. It was a violent and chaotic game played between rival villages or towns. The game had few rules and a large number of participants. Some believe these games were the precursors to rugby.

One famous story attributes the birth of rugby to William Webb Ellis, a Rugby School student. According to this legend, during a game of football in 1823, Webb Ellis picked up the ball and ran with it, creating a new style of play. Thus, Ellis “unknowingly” became “the Father of Rugby.”

While pundits debate the accuracy of this story, Webb Ellis is generally honoured as a possible creator of rugby. Indeed, the Rugby World Cup trophy is named after him.

At first, rugby was primarily played in schools and universities; different schools had different rules. It wasn't until 1871 that the Rugby Football Union (RFU) was formed in England to standardize the rules. The RFU played a crucial role in the game’s early development by codifying rugby laws.

Rugby Spreads Like Wildfire

As rugby gained popularity, the game spread beyond the borders of England like wildfire. It reached other parts of the British Isles, including Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. Eventually, possibly through colonial influence and international exchanges, rugby spread to other countries worldwide.

Today, different variations of rugby are played globally. They include the rugby union (the most familiar form), the rugby league, and the rugby sevens. The sport has steadily grown in popularity, with international competitions like the Rugby World Cup and the Six Nations Championship consistently capturing the attention of millions of fans worldwide.

Codification, Rules and the First Rugby Clubs

The game became popular in England’s schools and universities. In 1845, rugby’s first written rules were drawn up at Rugby School- they were known as “the Rugby Rules." The rules codified the gameplay and established principles such as carrying and running with the ball, tackling, and scoring methods.

As rugby’s popularity spread beyond schools and universities, clubs and teams started forming. Matches were organized. The first rugby club, the Guy's Hospital Football Club, was established in London in 1843. In 1871, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) was formed in England to standardize the game's rules. The RFU played a crucial role in codifying the laws of rugby and establishing the sport as a modern-day formalized game.

Formation of the Rugby League and a Split

In 1895, a disagreement over compensation for players led to a split in rugby. This led to the formation of a separate code known as the rugby league; the new game had different rules and allowed professional players. Regardless, the game’s original form became known as the rugby union.

The Rugby union gained international recognition and soon spread to other countries. The first ever international match took place in 1871 between England and Scotland. The Home Nations Championship (now called the Six Nations Championship) was established in 1883.

The Six Nations Championship eventually became the oldest rugby championship in the world. The sport continued to expand globally, with the formation of national rugby unions and participation in various international competitions like the Rugby World Cup.

In the late 20th century, rugby union gradually transitioned from amateurism to professionalism. In 1995, the Rugby World Cup was opened to professionals; this marked a significant shift in the sport. Today, rugby is played at various levels, from amateur and semi-professional to professional leagues.

The Modern Game Emerges

The modern form of rugby is primarily characterized by its physicality, strategic gameplay, and a beautiful balance between individual skills and team dynamics. The game is played internationally, with various competitions held at club and national levels. They include the Rugby World Cup, the Six Nations Championship, and domestic leagues like the English Premiership and the Super Rugby.

Clearly, throughout its evolution, rugby has undergone rule modifications, organizational developments, and changes in playing styles. Such factors have shaped rugby into what it is today- a game with a rich history and a dedicated, sometimes fanatic, global following.