I'm a teenager interested in trying rugby for the first time this fall. I've been a fan of the sport for a while, and I want to play either number 8 or flanker. I'm 5'7, 140 lbs, muscular for a girl and pretty fast. I have a background in wrestling so I'm pretty strong and scrappy. Would those positions suit me or should I look into playing a different one? I love your blog by the way, and you seem really knowledgable and supportive!
Congrats on thinking about trying rugby!!! I think you’re gonna love it :)
Regarding positions, I’d recommend not getting too invested in the idea of any particular one before you actually try it. Rugby is probably the most fun when you’ve found a position that allows you make the best use of your individual strengths, and sometimes the position you’re best suited to can be a surprise.
At the beginner level, the line is best for speedy and agile players, while the scrum is a good fit for the muscular, braver, more attractive and intelligent players. (As always, let me remind you that I pride myself on describing the positions impartially, and everything that I say is simply factual). It definitely sounds like you’d be a good fit for the scrum. I’d suggest trying out the different positions (especially the ones in the tight five) to see what feels the most natural!
Also something to keep in mind: this might sound odd, but because some of the positions are partnered (locks and props specifically), the teammate you’re paired with can have a big impact on your initial impression of the position, as well as the side you’re playing on (eg tighthead vs. loosehead). Even if you try a position and it doesn’t feel right at this point, trying it again in the future with another person (or on the opposite side) might change that!
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