Rugby a good alternative to football
Newsday found there are 578 fewer young people playing tackle football this year at 121 Long Island high schools. Credit: Newsday / J. Conrad Williams Jr.
The Nov. 5 article “Taking a pass,” about football participation declining among Long Island young people, mentioned alternatives to tackle football but failed to name rugby.
I’m a junior varsity rugby player in recreational leagues for the South Shore Hookers and Section XI Rugby. As a former tackle football player, I can attest that rugby is less dangerous.
Rugby’s rules require below-the-chest tackling, resulting in minimal to no head-to-head contact. Players who engage in repeated high tackles are warned or ejected. I’ve known rugby coaches to bench players to speak to them about high tackling.
Rugby players are taught to wrap up the ball carrier’s legs to bring him or her to the ground. Football players are encouraged to use equipment and hit hard, which increases the potential for concussions.
Another difference is that it’s common for both teams to get together for refreshments after the game and build friendships around the love of rugby.
Jacob Arens, East Islip
