Rugby is a great sport in itself but participation can also improve football performance. The physicality of rugby and football are very similar. Both require a high level of anaerobic fitness, functional strength, agility and teamwork. With the rising concern over concussions in football and an innate drive to stay successful, a growing number of top-level coaches are implementing rugby-style tackling to improve safety and develop more competitive athletes. If your coach is not embracing your participation in Rugby, he's probably not preparing you to maximize your athletic potential for college and beyond.
Below are a few successful football programs that are leading the way as well as Pro Football Players that contribute their success to participation in rugby.
Seattle Seahawks - Succeed with Rugby-Style Tackling
Atlanta Falcons - Credit Rugby-style Tackle with reducing injuries
Ohio State Buckeyes - Switch to Rugby Tacking
University of New Hampshire - Implements rugby-style tackle to reduce concussions
A Top FCS FB Program
Canton High School (Oklahoma) - Credits rugby in the off-season for rapid success in football.
Sources:
SBNation.com
Sports Illustrated, MMQB
Toledo Blade
Below are a few successful football programs that are leading the way as well as Pro Football Players that contribute their success to participation in rugby.
Seattle Seahawks - Succeed with Rugby-Style Tackling
Atlanta Falcons - Credit Rugby-style Tackle with reducing injuries
Ohio State Buckeyes - Switch to Rugby Tacking
University of New Hampshire - Implements rugby-style tackle to reduce concussions
A Top FCS FB Program
Canton High School (Oklahoma) - Credits rugby in the off-season for rapid success in football.
Sources:
SBNation.com
Sports Illustrated, MMQB
Toledo Blade