Knowing which rugby position is the best fit for you is important to your success and satisfaction as a rugby player. This guide from experienced coaches will help you make a more informed decision that suits your skillset and goals.
Identify Your Strengths and Skill Set.
The first step to choosing the right rugby position for you is to identify your strengths and skill set. Consider what type of player you are – do you have quick feet, good vision, a strong tackle or are you an aggressive player? Taking an honest assessment of yourself will help you in determining which position would be best suited for your level of experience and abilities.
Consider Your Body Type and Physical Attributes.
Different positions require different body types and physical attributes, depending on the role of the position. For example, a tighthead prop needs to be tall and sturdy with well-developed upper body strength, as they will be required to scrummage against opposing players. On the other hand, a fast and agile winger should have good speed and agility as they will often need to sprint down the length of the pitch. Therefore, when selecting a position consider your size, physical attributes and any advantages that you may have over other players in similar positions.
Analyze the Position Roles on the Field.
Each rugby position on the pitch plays an important role in a team’s success. It is important to analyze the roles and responsibilities of each player so you can identify which one best suits your abilities. For example, props are responsible for providing strength and stability during scrums and mauls, while fullbacks cover the back of the pitch from kicks, interceptions, and opposition attacks. Backs need speed to get downfield quickly when attacking and look to create space for other players with their passing ability. Consider these roles carefully before deciding which position most suits your skillset.
Find Out and Compare Player Expectations for Different Positions.
If you’re trying to decide which rugby position you should play, it’s important to weigh up the expected skills and abilities for each. For instance, the job of a scrumhalf is different from that of a flyhalf and flanker, so look into what these positions involve in terms of tackling, passing, and understanding game strategy before making an informed decision. You can also get feedback from experienced teammates or coaches on how your strengths may be better suited for one position over another.
Understand the Different Positions.
In order to make sure you choose the right rugby position for you, it’s important to understand and become familiar with the expectations of that position. Reading up on how each specific role works will ensure you know what is required for success. Assess your own skillset honestly and decide which area of the game interests you the most. Once you have narrowed down a few positions to consider, ask questions from teammates and coaches to help inform your decision.
