May 2023 Archive – Rugby History & Safety
Welcome to the May 2023 snapshot from Blyth Rugby Football Club. In this roundup we look back at how the game started and dig into a hot topic for young players – the risk of CTE.
How Rugby Was Born
Most people think rugby just popped up out of nowhere, but the story goes back to 1823 at Rugby School in England. One student, William Webb Ellis, grabbed a soccer ball during a match and ran toward the opposite goal. That single act broke the rules of soccer and sparked a new style of play. Within a few years other schools started copying the move, and the idea spread beyond the campus.
By the 1860s clubs formed in towns and cities, turning the school‑yard experiment into an organized sport. The first set of written rules appeared in 1845, giving the game a structure that still underpins today’s version. The big breakthrough came in 1871 when England faced Scotland in the first international match. That game proved rugby could draw crowds and fuel rivalries.
From there the sport split into two codes – rugby union and rugby league – each with its own rules and culture. Union kept the amateur spirit longer, while league embraced professionalism early on. Today both codes are played worldwide, and millions credit William Webb Ellis for that bold run.
CTE Concerns for High School Players
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, or CTE, is a brain condition linked to repeated head blows. It’s been in the news a lot because of American football, but rugby players face the same danger. For high school athletes the question is simple: should they worry?
The short answer is yes, they should be aware, but they don’t need to quit. The biggest risk comes from concussions that go untreated. If a player feels dizzy, has a headache, or sees double after a hit, they need to sit out and get checked. Proper assessment by a trained coach or medical staff can catch problems early.
Wearing the right gear also makes a difference. Modern scrum caps aren’t a magic shield, but they reduce superficial cuts and can soften some impacts. Combining caps with correct tackling technique – keeping the head up and using the shoulder – cuts down the chance of a hard hit to the skull.
Education is another key piece. Schools that run regular workshops on concussion signs see fewer missed injuries. Parents who talk to their kids about reporting symptoms create a safer environment. When everyone knows the signs, the team can act fast.
In short, CTE is a real concern, but it can be managed with awareness, protective equipment, and a culture that puts health first. Young players who follow these steps can enjoy the sport while keeping their brains safe.
That’s what May 2023 delivered – a glimpse into rugby’s roots and a practical look at how to stay safe on the field. Keep checking the archive for more stories, tips, and updates from Blyth Rugby.
How was rugby invented?
As a rugby enthusiast, I've always been curious about how this great sport was invented. It turns out rugby can be traced back to 1823 in England, when a young student named William Webb Ellis picked up a soccer ball and started running with it during a school game. This bold move led to the development of rugby football, which later split into two forms - rugby union and rugby league. The sport quickly gained popularity, and the first international match took place in 1871 between England and Scotland. Today, rugby is enjoyed by millions of fans and players worldwide, and we have William Webb Ellis to thank for it!
Should a high school rugby player be worried about CTE?
As a high school rugby player, the concern about CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) is definitely something to be aware of. This degenerative brain disease is linked to repeated head injuries, which can be quite common in contact sports like rugby. However, it's important to remember that wearing proper protective gear and practicing safe playing techniques can significantly reduce the risk. It's also crucial for coaches, parents, and players to be educated about the signs and symptoms of concussions and to take them seriously. In summary, while CTE is a valid concern, taking necessary precautions and staying informed can help minimize the risk for high school rugby players.