Rugby is a physical and demanding sport that has two main types: rugby union and rugby league. Both forms of the game have their unique rules, regulations, and styles of play. Rugby union is the more popular and widely played version of the sport, while rugby league is more popular in certain regions, such as Australia and New Zealand. Understanding the differences between these two types of rugby can be confusing for those who are new to the sport. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the different types of rugby, their origins, and their unique characteristics. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of professional rugby!
What is Rugby?
History of Rugby
Rugby football has its origins in the English public schools in the early 19th century. The game was first played at Rugby School in Warwickshire, England, in 1823. The rules of the game were originally set down by the pupils of Rugby School and were based on the traditional English game of football.
The first official rules of rugby were drawn up in 1845 by the pupils of Rugby School. These rules were then modified and adapted by other schools and clubs, leading to the development of different versions of the game.
In 1871, the first official rules of rugby union were drawn up by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) in England. These rules were then adopted by other countries, leading to the development of international rugby union.
Rugby league was formed in 1895 as a separate code of rugby, with its own rules and administration. The main differences between rugby union and rugby league are the number of players on the field, the rules for scoring tries, and the way the game is officiated.
Since its inception, rugby has become a popular sport around the world, with professional leagues and international competitions. Today, there are two main types of rugby: rugby union and rugby league. Both codes have their own unique rules and playing styles, and both are played at professional and amateur levels.
Basic Rules of Rugby
Rugby is a physically demanding and fast-paced sport that originated in England in the early 19th century. It is played by two teams of 15 players each, with the objective of scoring points by carrying the ball over the opponent’s try line or by kicking goals. The basic rules of rugby are as follows:
- Game Play: The game is played on a rectangular field with H-shaped goalposts at each end. The field measures 100 yards long and 50 yards wide. The game is divided into two halves of 40 minutes each, with a 10-minute halftime break.
- Scrum: A scrum is a restart after a minor infringement, such as a knock-on or a penalty. The two teams form a line with the players facing each other, and the team that did not commit the infringement gets the ball. The players then push against each other, trying to get the ball to the feet of their backs.
- Lineout: A lineout is a restart after a minor infringement by the opposing team in their own territory. The team that did not commit the infringement throws the ball into the air, and the players from both teams jump and compete for the ball. The team that catches the ball gets to play it.
- Tackle: A tackle is when a player attempts to stop the opposing player from carrying the ball. The tackled player must release the ball immediately, and the tackling team gets to play the ball.
- Ruck: A ruck is when a player on the ground releases the ball, and the players from both teams compete for possession. The team that gets the ball can either continue to play it or restart the game with a scrum or a lineout.
- Maul: A maul is when a player is on the ground and the opposing team tries to get the ball from them. The player on the ground cannot be moved, and the players from both teams compete for possession.
- Penalty: A penalty is awarded to the opposing team when a player commits a minor infringement, such as a knock-on or a side-step. The opposing team gets to restart the game with a free kick, which can be a kick at goal or a tap-kick.
- Sin Bin: A player can be sent to the sin bin for committing a serious infringement, such as a punch or a dangerous tackle. The player can only return to the game after 10 minutes.
In conclusion, understanding the basic rules of rugby is essential for any player or fan of the sport. It is important to remember that these rules are in place to ensure fair play and to promote the safety of all players.
Types of Rugby
1. Rugby Union
Rugby Union is one of the two main forms of rugby, the other being Rugby League. It is played by 15 players on each team, with the objective of scoring tries by touching the ball down behind the opposing team’s goal line. The game is played with a spherical ball and the players are allowed to handle the ball, run with it, and pass it to their teammates. The game is typically 80 minutes long and is divided into two halves of 40 minutes each.
1.1 The Origins of Rugby Union
Rugby Union has its origins in the English public schools in the early 19th century. The game was initially played by a group of students at Rugby School in Warwickshire, England. The students combined elements of football, soccer, and other games to create a new sport, which they called “rugby football”. The first official rules of the game were drawn up in 1845, and the first international match was played in 1871 between England and Scotland.
1.2 The Laws of Rugby Union
The laws of Rugby Union are administered by the International Rugby Board (IRB), which was established in 1886. The laws are designed to ensure fair play and safety for all players. Some of the key laws include:
- The game is played with 15 players on each team.
- The objective of the game is to score tries by touching the ball down behind the opposing team’s goal line.
- The ball can be passed or carried by the players, but it cannot be thrown.
- The game is divided into two halves of 40 minutes each, with a halftime break of 10 minutes.
- If a player is tackled, they must release the ball immediately.
- If a player commits a foul, the opposing team is awarded a penalty, which can be kicked for points or used to restart play.
1.3 The World of Rugby Union
Rugby Union is played by millions of people around the world, with the largest competitions being the Six Nations Championship and the Rugby World Cup. The Six Nations Championship is an annual tournament involving the national teams of England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales. The Rugby World Cup is held every four years and involves teams from all over the world. The best players in the world compete in the Heineken Champions Cup, which is the premier club competition in Europe.
In addition to these international competitions, there are many domestic leagues and cup competitions around the world, including the Aviva Premiership in England, the Top 14 in France, and the Pro14, which includes teams from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The best players from these leagues often go on to represent their countries in international competitions.
2. Rugby League
Rugby League is a fast-paced and physically demanding sport that originated in Northern England in the late 19th century. It is played with 13 players on each team, and the objective is to score points by carrying the ball over the try line or kicking goals.
Some key differences between Rugby Union and Rugby League include:
- The number of players: Rugby Union has 15 players on each team, while Rugby League has 13.
- The rules for handling the ball: In Rugby League, players are allowed to throw the ball behind them, while in Rugby Union, they must pass the ball forward.
- The number of substitutions: Rugby League allows for unlimited substitutions, while Rugby Union only allows for a limited number of substitutions.
In Rugby League, the game is divided into two halves, each lasting 40 minutes. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins. Points can be scored through tries, which are worth four points, goals, which are worth two points, and field goals, which are worth one point.
Rugby League is popular in many countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and England. It is also played professionally in France, the United States, and other countries. The sport has a dedicated following, with passionate fans who enjoy the fast-paced action and physical nature of the game.
3. Rugby Sevens
Rugby Sevens is a variant of rugby union that is played with seven players on each team, instead of the usual 15. It is a faster-paced and more high-intensity version of rugby, with shorter halves and a greater emphasis on speed and agility.
The History of Rugby Sevens
Rugby Sevens was first played in Melrose, Scotland in 1877, and has since become a popular sport around the world. It was introduced to the Commonwealth Games in 1998, and has since become a fixture of the event. In 2016, Rugby Sevens was included in the Olympics for the first time, further increasing its popularity.
The Rules of Rugby Sevens
The rules of Rugby Sevens are similar to those of rugby union, but with some key differences. The most notable difference is the smaller number of players on each team, which results in a faster and more intense game. Other differences include shorter halves (14 minutes instead of 40), a smaller field size, and a different scoring system.
Scoring in Rugby Sevens
In Rugby Sevens, points are scored by touching the ball down over the opponent’s try line, or by kicking the ball through the opponent’s goalposts (known as a “conversion”). Unlike rugby union, there is no limit on the number of players that can be involved in a conversion attempt.
The Rugby Sevens World Series
The Rugby Sevens World Series is a series of international rugby sevens tournaments that take place around the world. The series features some of the best rugby sevens teams from around the world, and is considered the pinnacle of rugby sevens competition. The series includes events in countries such as Australia, Dubai, Hong Kong, and the United States.
The Future of Rugby Sevens
Rugby Sevens is a rapidly growing sport, with a growing fan base and increasing participation numbers. Its inclusion in the Olympics has helped to raise its profile, and it is expected to continue to grow in popularity in the coming years. With its fast-paced and exciting nature, Rugby Sevens is sure to continue to captivate audiences around the world.
Differences between Rugby Union and Rugby League
Rugby Union and Rugby League are two different forms of rugby, each with its own unique set of rules and gameplay. Although both sports share some similarities, there are also several key differences between the two.
One of the main differences between Rugby Union and Rugby League is the number of players on the field. In Rugby Union, there are 15 players on each team, while in Rugby League, there are only 13. This difference in player numbers can lead to different strategies and gameplay styles.
Another key difference is the rules regarding handling the ball. In Rugby Union, players are only allowed to pass the ball backwards, while in Rugby League, players can pass the ball in any direction. This rule change allows for more fluid and fast-paced gameplay in Rugby League.
There are also differences in the way points are scored. In Rugby Union, points can be scored by touching the ball down over the opponent’s try line, as well as by kicking goals and converting tries. In Rugby League, points are scored by touching the ball down over the opponent’s try line, as well as by kicking goals and scoring tries. However, in Rugby League, a try is worth four points instead of five in Rugby Union.
In terms of player equipment, there are also some differences between the two sports. In Rugby Union, players wear a mouthguard and a scrum cap, while in Rugby League, players wear a mouthguard and a headgear.
Overall, while both Rugby Union and Rugby League share some similarities, there are also several key differences between the two sports. These differences in rules, gameplay, and equipment make each sport unique and exciting in its own way.
Differences between Rugby Union and Rugby Sevens
Rugby Union and Rugby Sevens are two different forms of rugby, each with its own set of rules and regulations. Rugby Union is the traditional form of rugby played with 15 players on each team, while Rugby Sevens is a variant of the sport played with 7 players on each team.
One of the main differences between the two forms of rugby is the size of the playing field. In Rugby Union, the field is 100 yards long and 50-70 yards wide, while in Rugby Sevens, the field is only 70 yards long and 40 yards wide. This smaller field size results in a faster-paced game with more scoring opportunities.
Another difference between the two forms of rugby is the number of players on the field. In Rugby Union, there are 15 players on each team, while in Rugby Sevens, there are only 7 players on each team. This means that in Rugby Sevens, there are fewer players on the field to defend against the opposing team’s attacks, making it a more offensive-oriented game.
The rules of the game are also different between Rugby Union and Rugby Sevens. For example, in Rugby Union, a player can only pass the ball backwards, while in Rugby Sevens, players can pass the ball in any direction. Additionally, in Rugby Sevens, there is no limit on the number of substitutes that can be used, while in Rugby Union, there are only five substitutes allowed per team.
In terms of scoring, the rules for scoring points are the same in both Rugby Union and Rugby Sevens. However, the frequency of scoring is higher in Rugby Sevens due to the smaller field size and more offensive-oriented gameplay.
Overall, while both Rugby Union and Rugby Sevens are forms of rugby, they have distinct differences in terms of field size, number of players, and rules of the game.
Differences between Rugby League and Rugby Sevens
While both Rugby League and Rugby Sevens are variations of rugby, they have distinct differences in terms of their rules, playing style, and tournament structure. Here are some of the key differences between the two:
- Number of Players: Rugby League has 13 players on the field for each team, while Rugby Sevens has 7 players per team.
- Game Length: Rugby League matches consist of two 40-minute halves, while Rugby Sevens matches consist of two 7-minute halves with a 1-minute half-time break.
- Scoring System: In Rugby League, points can be scored by trying a conversion after scoring a try, or by kicking a goal from a penalty or drop-goal. In Rugby Sevens, points can be scored by trying a conversion after scoring a try, or by scoring a try directly.
- Tackling and Rucking: In Rugby League, the tackler must tackle the player in possession by making contact with the ball, while in Rugby Sevens, the tackler must tackle the player in possession by making contact with any part of their body. The rucking rules are also different in the two variations, with Rugby League allowing unlimited tackles to be made at a ruck, while Rugby Sevens has a set of rules to ensure the ruck is cleared quickly.
- Tournament Structure: Rugby League has a number of professional tournaments, including the NRL (National Rugby League) in Australia and the Super League in Europe, while Rugby Sevens has a number of professional tournaments, including the World Rugby Sevens Series and the Rugby World Cup Sevens.
Overall, while both Rugby League and Rugby Sevens are exciting and fast-paced variations of rugby, they have distinct differences in terms of their rules and playing style, which make them unique and appealing to different audiences.
Professional Rugby
The International Rugby Board (IRB)
The International Rugby Board (IRB) is the governing body for rugby union on a global scale. It was established in 1879, and its headquarters are located in Dublin, Ireland. The IRB is responsible for organizing and overseeing various aspects of the sport, including the rules, international competitions, and the development of the game.
One of the main objectives of the IRB is to promote and develop rugby union throughout the world. To achieve this goal, the IRB works closely with its member unions, which are the national governing bodies for rugby union in different countries. The IRB also collaborates with other organizations, such as the World Rugby, to promote the sport and increase its popularity.
The IRB is responsible for creating and updating the laws of the game, which are commonly known as the “Laws of Rugby Union.” These laws are designed to ensure fair play and safety for all players, and they are enforced by the referee during a match. The IRB also provides education and training for referees, coaches, and players to ensure that they are familiar with the laws of the game and can apply them correctly.
The IRB organizes various international competitions, including the Rugby World Cup, which is held every four years and features teams from all over the world. The IRB also organizes regional competitions, such as the Six Nations Championship and the Rugby Championship, which involve teams from different regions of the world.
In addition to organizing competitions, the IRB is also responsible for the development of the game. This includes promoting the sport at grassroots level, supporting the growth of rugby union in developing countries, and ensuring that the game remains accessible to everyone. The IRB also works to improve the standard of the game by providing resources and support for coaches, players, and referees.
Overall, the International Rugby Board (IRB) plays a crucial role in the governance and development of rugby union on a global scale. Its objectives include promoting the sport, ensuring fair play, and supporting the growth of the game at all levels.
Major Professional Rugby Leagues
The professional era of rugby has witnessed the emergence of several major leagues around the world. These leagues have provided a platform for elite players to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level. The following are some of the major professional rugby leagues:
1. Gallagher Premiership
The Gallagher Premiership is the top tier of rugby union in England. It is a professional league that consists of 12 teams, with each team representing a different city or region. The league was founded in 1987 and has since become one of the most competitive and prestigious rugby leagues in the world. The Premiership is known for its high-intensity matches and its passionate fan base.
2. Guinness PRO14
The Guinness PRO14 is a professional rugby union competition that involves teams from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Italy. The league was formed in 2017 when the Celtic League and the Pro12 merged. It is one of the most diverse and challenging rugby leagues in the world, with teams competing against each other in a round-robin format. The PRO14 is known for its fast-paced rugby and its highly skilled players.
3. Super Rugby
Super Rugby is a professional rugby union competition that involves teams from Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The league was founded in 1996 and has since become one of the most popular and competitive rugby leagues in the world. Super Rugby is known for its high-quality rugby and its fast-paced style of play. The league features some of the best players in the world and attracts a large and passionate fan base.
4. Top 14
The Top 14 is the top tier of rugby union in France. It is a professional league that consists of 14 teams, with each team representing a different city or region. The league was founded in 1892 and has since become one of the most prestigious rugby leagues in the world. The Top 14 is known for its high-quality rugby and its passionate fan base. The league features some of the best players in the world and attracts a large and dedicated following.
In conclusion, the major professional rugby leagues provide a platform for elite players to compete at the highest level and showcase their skills. These leagues are known for their high-quality rugby and passionate fan base, and they continue to attract some of the best players in the world.
Famous Professional Rugby Teams
The Top 5 Professional Rugby Teams in the World
- New Zealand All Blacks
- Based in: Auckland, New Zealand
- Stadium: Eden Park
- Established: 1879
- Notable Achievements: Winners of the Rugby World Cup three times (1987, 2011, 2015)
- South Africa Springboks
- Based in: Johannesburg, South Africa
- Stadium: Ellis Park
- Established: 1891
- Notable Achievements: Winners of the Rugby World Cup twice (1995, 1999)
- Australia Wallabies
- Based in: Sydney, Australia
- Stadium: Stadium Australia
- Established: 1871
- Notable Achievements: Winners of the Rugby World Cup once (1991)
- England
- Based in: London, England
- Stadium: Twickenham Stadium
- Notable Achievements: Winners of the Rugby World Cup once (2016)
- Ireland
- Based in: Dublin, Ireland
- Stadium: Aviva Stadium
- Notable Achievements: Winners of the Six Nations Championship four times (1948, 1984, 1990, 2018)
Other Prominent Professional Rugby Teams
- France
- Based in: Paris, France
- Stadium: Stade de France
- Established: 1872
- Notable Achievements: Winners of the Six Nations Championship six times (1968, 1977, 1983, 1985, 1993, 1997, 2002)
- Wales
- Based in: Cardiff, Wales
- Stadium: Millennium Stadium
- Established: 1876
- Notable Achievements: Winners of the Six Nations Championship 13 times, including three Grand Slams (1909, 1921, 1926, 1931, 1950, 1952, 1959, 1969, 1976, 1988, 1993, 1999, 2005, 2008, 2010, 2012)
- Scotland
- Based in: Edinburgh, Scotland
- Stadium: Murrayfield Stadium
- Established: 1870
- Notable Achievements: Winners of the Six Nations Championship three times (1984, 1990, 1999)
- Italy
- Based in: Rome, Italy
- Stadium: Stadio Olimpico
- Established: 1861
- Notable Achievements: Winners of the Six Nations Championship twice (1935, 1950)
Please note that this information is accurate as of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, and there may have been changes since then.
Comparison of Salaries in Professional Rugby
When it comes to professional rugby, one of the most important factors that players and coaches consider is the salary. In this section, we will compare the salaries of professional rugby players across different leagues and countries.
Leagues
One of the most important factors that affect the salaries of professional rugby players is the league they play in. In general, players in the top leagues such as the English Premiership, the French Top 14, and the Pro14 can expect to earn significantly more than players in lower leagues such as the National Leagues in England and Wales.
Countries
Another important factor that affects the salaries of professional rugby players is the country they play in. In general, players in countries such as New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa can expect to earn more than players in other countries. This is due to the success of these countries in international competitions and the popularity of rugby in these countries.
Positions
The position of a player can also affect their salary. In general, players in key positions such as fly-half, scrum-half, and lock can expect to earn more than players in other positions. This is due to the importance of these positions on the field and the skill required to play them.
Contracts
Finally, the length and type of contract a player signs can also affect their salary. In general, players who sign longer contracts can expect to earn more than players who sign shorter contracts. Additionally, players who sign with top teams or who are offered multi-year contracts can expect to earn more than players who sign with lower teams or who are offered shorter contracts.
In conclusion, the salaries of professional rugby players can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the league they play in, the country they play in, their position, and the length and type of contract they sign.
The Importance of Sponsorship in Professional Rugby
In professional rugby, sponsorship plays a crucial role in the financial stability and success of teams and leagues. Sponsorship refers to the funding and support provided by companies or organizations to teams or events in exchange for exposure and promotion. Here are some key points to consider when it comes to the importance of sponsorship in professional rugby:
Funding and Support
Sponsorship is a vital source of funding for professional rugby teams and leagues. Without sponsorship, it would be difficult for these organizations to cover the costs associated with player salaries, training facilities, equipment, and other expenses. Sponsorship can also provide support in the form of resources, such as marketing expertise or access to technology.
Exposure and Promotion
One of the main benefits of sponsorship for companies is the exposure and promotion they receive through their association with a team or league. Sponsorship deals often include branding on team uniforms, signage at stadiums, and mentions during broadcasts. This exposure can help increase brand awareness and reach a wider audience.
Building Relationships
Sponsorship can also help build relationships between companies and their target audiences. By associating themselves with a popular sport like rugby, companies can create a positive image and connect with fans who share their interests. This can lead to increased loyalty and sales in the long run.
Types of Sponsorship
There are several types of sponsorship in professional rugby, including:
- Shirt sponsorship: This is the most common type of sponsorship, where a company’s logo is placed on the front of a team’s jersey.
- Stadium sponsorship: This involves a company’s name being associated with a specific stadium or arena.
- Event sponsorship: Companies can sponsor specific events, such as tournaments or matches.
- Official partner sponsorship: This type of sponsorship involves a company being recognized as an official partner of a team or league.
Overall, sponsorship is a crucial aspect of professional rugby, providing funding, exposure, and opportunities for building relationships with fans and customers.
Future of Rugby
The future of rugby is a topic of much discussion and debate among players, coaches, and fans alike. As the sport continues to evolve and grow, there are several key factors that will shape its future.
One of the main challenges facing rugby is the need to maintain its traditional values while also embracing modern innovations. This means finding a balance between preserving the sport’s rich history and traditions, and adapting to the changing demands of the game.
Another important factor is the growth of the sport on a global scale. Rugby has become increasingly popular in countries such as the United States, Japan, and Germany, and this trend is likely to continue in the coming years. As more and more people around the world discover the sport, the demand for high-quality professional rugby will only continue to grow.
The rise of technology is also playing a significant role in the future of rugby. Advances in equipment and training techniques are allowing players to improve their skills and performance to new heights. This, in turn, is leading to more exciting and competitive matches, as well as greater opportunities for players to showcase their talents on a global stage.
In addition to these factors, the future of rugby will also be shaped by the sport’s governing bodies and their efforts to promote and develop the game. The Rugby World Cup, for example, is one of the most prestigious events in all of sports, and it will continue to play a crucial role in driving the growth and popularity of the sport.
Overall, the future of rugby looks bright, with many exciting developments on the horizon. Whether you are a fan, player, or coach, there has never been a better time to be involved in this dynamic and thrilling sport.
Recommendations for Improving Professional Rugby
In order to improve professional rugby, several recommendations have been proposed by experts in the field. These recommendations aim to enhance the quality of the game, increase its popularity, and make it more accessible to a wider audience. Here are some of the key recommendations:
- Referee Consistency: One of the major issues in professional rugby is the inconsistency in refereeing decisions. To address this, experts recommend that referees undergo more stringent training and evaluation programs to ensure that they are consistent in their decision-making.
- Rugby Sevens: Rugby Sevens is a faster and more exciting version of rugby that has gained popularity in recent years. Experts recommend that professional rugby leagues should include more Rugby Sevens tournaments to attract a younger and more diverse audience.
- Technology Integration: The use of technology in professional rugby has been a topic of debate for some time. Experts recommend that rugby leagues should embrace technology to improve the accuracy of refereeing decisions and make the game more accessible to a wider audience.
- Increased Funding: Professional rugby leagues need more funding to invest in infrastructure, player development, and coaching programs. Experts recommend that rugby organizations should work with sponsors and government agencies to secure more funding for the sport.
- Globalization: Rugby is a global sport with a huge following in countries like New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. Experts recommend that professional rugby leagues should do more to promote the sport in other countries and make it more accessible to a wider audience.
- Player Welfare: Player welfare is a major concern in professional rugby. Experts recommend that rugby leagues should implement strict regulations to protect players from injury and ensure that they receive adequate medical treatment.
By implementing these recommendations, professional rugby leagues can improve the quality of the game, increase its popularity, and make it more accessible to a wider audience.
FAQs
1. What are the two types of rugby?
There are two main types of rugby: rugby union and rugby league. Rugby union is the more traditional form of the sport and is played with 15 players on each team. It is most popular in countries such as England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, France, and Australia. Rugby league, on the other hand, is a more modern version of the sport and is played with 13 players on each team. It is most popular in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea.
2. What are the main differences between rugby union and rugby league?
The main differences between rugby union and rugby league are the number of players on the field, the rules for scoring tries, and the way the game is played. Rugby union is played with 15 players on each team, while rugby league is played with 13 players on each team. In rugby union, a try is scored by grounding the ball behind the opponent’s goal line, while in rugby league a try is scored by grounding the ball over the opponent’s goal line. Additionally, rugby league has a different set of rules for handling the ball and the game is generally faster-paced than rugby union.
3. Which type of rugby is more popular?
Rugby union is more popular than rugby league, both in terms of the number of countries that play it and the number of people who follow the sport. Rugby union is played in over 100 countries, while rugby league is played in less than 50 countries. Additionally, rugby union has a larger professional league, with more teams and more fans.
4. Can players switch between rugby union and rugby league?
Yes, players can switch between rugby union and rugby league. However, it is important to note that the rules and style of play are different between the two sports, so players may need to adapt to a new way of playing. Some players have successfully made the switch, while others have found it more difficult.
5. Which type of rugby is easier to learn?
Both rugby union and rugby league can be challenging sports to learn, as they involve a lot of physicality and strategy. However, some people may find one sport easier to learn than the other depending on their individual skills and abilities. For example, some people may find the rules of rugby union more difficult to understand than those of rugby league, while others may find the physical demands of rugby league more challenging than those of rugby union. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide which sport they find easiest to learn and play.
