Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the rules?
A: In Rugby the rules are called laws. You will pick them up as you learn the sport.

Q: What if I am out of shape?
A: Playing will help get you into shape. We have players of all ages and levels of fitness. We stretch and warm up at at our own pace at every practice.

Q: What if I do not have the right build for rugby?
A: A successful team has guys of all sizes. There are positions that are ideal for every body!

Q: Is it dangerous?
A: We emphasize safety and we will teach you the skills to protect yourself on the pitch (field). At the same time, there is a danger of injury in any sport so we suggest you have health insurance just like you'd need for softball or even bowling!

Q: What equipment do I need to get started practicing?
A: Rugby shorts, rugby boots and a practice rugby jersey are ideal. But, any sturdy shorts and heavy t-shirt will do. Soccer cleats are also OK for practice till you have real boots. Also, bring sweat pants or something to keep your muscles warm after practice during the cold months. REMEMBER to bring a water or gatorade to practice. The Grizzlies provide these for matches.

Q: What do the Grizzlies provide for matches?
A: Jersey - Each number on a rugby jersey corresponds to a particular position and you may play several different positions (even in the same match), so the Grizzlies RFC provides your jersey at the match.

Q: What you need to provide?

• Rugby boots - These are actually just shoes with cleats. But, Rugby boots are different from cleats worn in soccer and other sports in that they DO NOT have a toe-cleat. You will appreciate this subtle difference when you are on the ground in a ruck. Boots are checked for compliance with this "Law" (Laws are just the "rules") by the Sir (referee) before each match. If you cannot get rugby boots, it is OK to play/practice in soccer or other cleats, just be sure to file-off the toe-cleat if there is one.
• Rugby shorts - We wear a standard navy blue rugby short. There are basically two types of rugby short, the ones with a 2 inch inseam and the ones with 4 inch inseam. Though we would like to see you in the 2 inch "hot pants" version, either is fine. Any make should also be fine. These are available locally at Brentwood Sports-Lacrosse Nashville. See address to the left. Socks - We wear navy blue with a gold (yellow) band that folds over at the top.
• Mouth guard - Even with great dental insurance this is a good idea. Whatever type you feel most comfortable with is fine.
• Compression shorts - These are helpful to keep you from pulling a hamstring and help keep your quads in good condition during practice and matches.
• Pads - This is Rugby, not football, so there will be lots of snickering (possibly open ridicule) if you show up with pads. However, for those playing Front Row positions (Props and Hooker) and those wanting to achieve the structured-shoulder look made popular by Crystal and Alexis (that is a Dynasty reference for you kids), certain very thin "pads" are allowed. Be sure they are regulation (USA Rugby approved) before you buy. Brands that are approved will say so. No "hard plastic" of any sort is allowed on the pitch so athletic cups are NOT allowed, one more reason you should consider compression shorts - keep the boys out of harms way.
• Caps - these are mainly used by Forwards to keep ears from being torn off in a scrum, but can be handy in a ruck or maul as well. They are most often worn, and recommended, for those playing the second-row positions of Lock.