Match Lengths and Game flow

I just found a really good compilation of all the Rugby Union rules. It's called the BBC Sport Academy and not only has a full collection of Rugby laws, but also showcases places to buy equipment and how to effectively train for the sport.

In continuing my discussion of rugby game-play, this week I will write about match lengths and game flow.

A typical match in rugby lasts 90 minutes and is divided into two 40 minute halves, with a maximum of 10 minutes for halftime. Teams are not given time-outs, so the only times players can stop and rest during the game are when the referee calls penalties or trys, players are injured, or at the half. Sometimes at the amateur level referees may observe "water-breaks" during the game or simply shorten the half-lengths depending on weather conditions and the teams fitness levels. Also, because the clock is constantly running games may be given injury time if a given injury causes a lengthy delay.

The aspect of time is one that makes rugby unique in that the game changes based on who is playing. A middle school team, for instance may only play 20 minute halves with frequent water breaks if it is a hot day, while a college level team may only take the half-time break, and even be given more time based on injury time. The malleability of the game to suit the players is consistent with the rugby ethos and places emphasis on those playing and not on the rules itself. Sports such as American Football rely heavily upon rules to dictate the length of the game while rugby actually incorporates the intent and ability of the players into refereed games.

Along with game length, other areas of play change based on player conditions. The scrum may be "uncontested", meaning players do not push very hard when over the ball, or the size of the scrum may be reduced if players have only been recently introduced to the game. These facets markets the game to a much wider audience than other contact sports and a typical person may play the game in some respect from ages 6 to 60. Everyone can be involved.

These aspects of play, however inviting to the masses, may also be a reason rugby has not been widely accepted in the United States; no commercial time because there are no breaks and a lack of stringency with respect to time do not make for an easily marketable television show.