Types of Rugby: Which Format Fits Your Game?

Rugby isn’t just one sport. From the 15‑a‑side battles of Union to the lightning‑fast sprints of Sevens, each version brings its own vibe. At Pontypool Rugby Club we love all of them, and you probably will too once you see what makes each one special.

Classic Rugby Union

Union is the original form most fans think of. Fifteen players per side, two 40‑minute halves, and a mix of set‑pieces like scrums and line‑outs. It’s the game that draws the biggest crowds and the most tradition. If you enjoy strategic play, slow builds, and big‑team tackles, Union is where you’ll feel at home. Our first‑team fixtures showcase the full‑court drama that keeps supporters on the edge of their seats.

Fast‑Paced Rugby League

League trims the roster down to thirteen and cuts the tackles to six per possession. That change speeds up the action and forces quick decisions. The play‑the‑ball rule after a tackle keeps the ball moving, and you’ll notice more open space and fewer stoppages. Many players switch between Union and League because the fitness demands are similar, but the rhythm feels fresh.

Beyond Union and League, there are shorter formats that suit different schedules and skill sets.

Rugby Sevens – Sprinting the Pitch

Sevens packs seven players on each side into a standard‑size field. Matches last just 14 minutes—two 7‑minute halves—so every second counts. Speed, agility, and endurance dominate the game, and the tournament style means you can watch multiple matches in one evening. Clubs often run Sevens weekends as a social highlight, and our own Sevens squad has a reputation for snappy runs and surprise upsets.

Tag and Touch – Non‑Contact Fun

If you prefer a less bruising experience, Tag and Touch give you rugby’s core skills without the heavy hits. In Tag, players wear Velcro strips; pull one off and you’ve been tackled. Touch replaces the tackle with a simple hand touch. Both formats are great for newcomers, fitness groups, and mixed‑gender teams. Our junior program uses Tag to teach ball handling before moving kids onto full contact.

Trying a new type doesn’t mean abandoning the old one. Many of our members rotate between Union, Sevens, and Tag throughout the season, keeping their skills sharp and their calendar busy.

Choosing the Right Type for You

Think about your fitness level, the time you can commit, and how much contact you want. Union needs the most time and physicality, while Sevens fits a busy schedule. Tag offers a safe entry point for anyone nervous about tackles. Whatever you pick, you’ll find a welcoming community at Pontypool Rugby Club ready to coach you, cheer you, and share a post‑match pint.

Ready to give one of these formats a go? Drop by the clubhouse, talk to our coaches, and sign up for a trial session. No matter which type you choose, you’ll be part of a sport that blends teamwork, speed, and raw excitement.