Rugby Resources: Books, Websites, and More

Introduction

Rugby is a sport that brims with history, passion, and a sense of epic adventure. Whether you're a lifelong fan, a curious newcomer, or even just someone looking to delve into its rich heritage, an array of resources stands ready to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the game. From riveting books that chronicle the highs and lows of rugby history to interactive websites that keep you updated on the latest happenings, here's a comprehensive guide to the best rugby resources available. Let the feast begin!

Essential Rugby Books

Rugby's legacy is preserved not just on the pitch but also in the pages of countless insightful and engaging books. Here’s a selection that will surely whet your literary appetite:

"Playing It My Way" by Jonny Wilkinson

Jonny Wilkinson is a name synonymous with English rugby. His autobiography is a must-read, offering a poignant, honest, and motivational recount of his journey through the sport. Wilkinson’s precision with the boot and his dedication to the game make this book a thrilling read for any rugby aficionado.

"Engage: The Fall and Rise of Matt Hampson" by Paul Kimmage

This captivating book tells the story of Matt Hampson, a promising young player whose career was tragically cut short by a spinal injury. Far from a tale of despair, this is a narrative of resilience, determination, and the extraordinary spirit that characterises rugby.

"Beware of the Dog: Rugby’s Hard Man Reveals All" by Brian Moore

Brian Moore’s memoir is as hard-hitting as his playing style. The former England and British Lions hooker brings his acerbic wit and unique perspective to the table, offering an enthralling look at the sport’s rough and tumble world.

"Rugby: A New Zealand History" by Ron Palenski

Dive deep into the heart of one of rugby's most illustrious nations with Ron Palenski's comprehensive history of New Zealand rugby. This book navigates through the sport's development in the Land of the Long White Cloud, spot-lighting legends like Jonah Lomu and Richie McCaw.

"Rugby: The Art of Scrummaging" by Enrique TOPO Rodríguez

A fascinating read for anyone intrigued by the nuts and bolts of forward play. This technical tome delves into the (dark) art and science of one of rugby's most iconic set-pieces, the scrum, from the perspective of a former international prop forward.

Stellar Rugby Websites

Beyond books, the internet offers a treasure trove of dynamic and engaging platforms where you can immerse yourself in the world of rugby. Here are some top picks:

World Rugby (www.world.rugby)

World Rugby's official website is the ultimate destination for global rugby news. It covers everything from the latest international matches and tournaments to in-depth analyses and rankings. The site also features extensive information on the world’s premier rugby competitions, including the Rugby World Cup.

BBC Sport Rugby (www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union)

For comprehensive coverage of British and international rugby, BBC Sport is a reliable and respected source. The website offers the latest news, live scores, video highlights, and insightful commentary, ensuring you’re always in the know.

Scrum.com (www.espn.co.uk/rugby/)

Part of ESPN, Scrum.com provides extensive statistics, opinion pieces, and live coverage. It’s particularly well-regarded for its detailed data archives, making it a go-to for those who love to delve into the numbers behind the game.

RugbyPass (www.rugbypass.com)

RugbyPass is the Netflix for rugby fans. This subscription-based service offers live streaming of rugby matches from around the world, along with documentaries, analysis, and exclusive interviews.

The Rugby Paper (www.therugbypaper.co.uk)

A quintessentially British resource, The Rugby Paper includes a mix of in-depth features, player interviews, and expert columns. Its website compliments the print edition, offering up-to-date news and engaging content for all levels of rugby enthusiasts.

Other Valuable Rugby Resources

The digital age has brought with it an array of platforms beyond traditional websites. Here are a couple of standout recommendations:

Podcasts

The Rugby Pod - Hosted by former players Andy Goode and Jim Hamilton, this podcast mixes humour with insightful analysis, covering the latest in rugby news, interviews, and banter.

Blood & Mud Rugby Podcast - A fan favourite, this show blends match reviews, opinion pieces, and a healthy dollop of humour, making it perfect for both die-hard fans and casual followers.

YouTube Channels

World Rugby - The official YouTube channel presents match highlights, player profiles, and coverage of major tournaments. It’s an excellent visual companion to the sport.

The Rugby Guy - This channel offers entertaining and educational content, including technique breakdowns, analysis, and fan interactions.

Wrap-Up

Rugby is a world unto itself, teeming with stories, strategies, and spirit. Whether you prefer losing yourself in the pages of a gripping autobiography, staying plugged in with the latest digital updates, or learning through visual media, there's a wealth of resources to enhance your journey. So grab a book, bookmark a site, tune into a podcast, and dive head-first into the extraordinary world of rugby. It’s time to ruck, maul and scrum your way to a deeper connection with this incredible sport!

Call to Action

Did we miss any of your favourite resources? What books or websites do you swear by? Share your go-to rugby resources using the feedback/contact link and we will include them in the next edition of https://rugbylegacy.com/