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The Positions
The 15 players on a rugby team are divided up into two groups, forwards and backs. There are eight forwards and seven backs. Below is a brief explanation of the positions, their responsibilities, and typical skills and body type required to play it. (And as you'll see, body type is a big determining factor when assigning positions.)
The Forwards
Rugby forwards are the worker bees on the field. Rugged, strong, and determined, these players spend the game trying to secure possession of the ball and then either move it forward or present it to the backs to do something with. They are then expected to remain in support of the speedy backs as they carry the ball. As a result, a forward's job is never done. Forwards are also called the pack or the scrum. A scrum is the conglomeration of forwards binding together in specific positions to win possession of the ball. Again, this is a situation that is best explained and understood once you have seen one. Below are the forward positions and the common skills associated with each position:
- Loose/Tight Head Prop: There are two props on the field, one called loose head, the other tight head (those distinctions are based on the props' positions in the scrum). Both props are usually strong, sturdy, and somewhat fearless.
- Hooker: A hooker's responsibility is to "hook" the ball while in a scrum. She is typically small and quick, with good feet.
- Second Rows: There are two second rows, and they are tall, big, and strong. Due to their height, many second rows are used as the jumpers in lineouts.
- Wing Forwards: Also called flankers or breakaways, these two players are quick and aggressive.
- Number Eight: The last person in the scrum, the number eight is usually smart, with a good knowledge of the game, and has good hand and foot skills.
- Scrumhalf: OK, the scrumhalf isn't technically a forward, but as the link between the forwards and the backs, we thought it important to list the position here. In order to be a good scrumhalf, one needs to be quick, smart, and to know the game very well.
The Backs
The backs are the glamour gals of rugby. These are the sprinters, the passers with the Midas touch, the ones with the moves. While they tackle, ruck, and maul like the forwards, the backs usually play in a lot less traffic than the forwards. After the forwards win them the ball, the backs are expected to run, pass, kick, and score lots of tries. As a result, most of the glory in scoring goes to the backs. Here are the back positions: 
- Scrumhalf: Already discussed.
- Flyhalf: The flyhalf is the vital link from the scrumhalf to the rest of the backs. She must have a cool head and great hands.
- Inside Center: Usually one of the sturdier backs, the inside center needs to have strength and a good change of speed.
- Outside Center: Just like the inside center, only faster and stronger.
- Wings: There are two wings, and they should be the fastest folks on the field.
- Fullback: The fullback does a lot of kicking, which requires a strong and accurate
 foot. The fullback should also be good at open field tackling, be able to read the field well, and have decent speed.
Now that we've given you an idea of the rugby positions, think about where you'd fit in. If you're smaller and fast, with good hands, you're likely going to be a back. If you're a bit sturdier—maybe not so speedy—and strong, consider trying a forward position. Regardless of where you think you should be, we'll be glad to help you find the position that's right for you.
Most of this information can be found at the Radcliffe Women's Rugby web site.
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