Rugby is a sport that has captured the hearts of millions of people around the world. It is a sport that requires strength, skill, and strategy, and it is played by people of all ages and abilities. But just how many people play rugby? This question has been the subject of much debate and speculation, but thanks to recent research, we now have a better understanding of the global reach of rugby. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at participation numbers worldwide, exploring the popularity of rugby in different countries and regions, and examining the factors that contribute to its enduring appeal. Whether you are a seasoned rugby player or a newcomer to the sport, this article will provide you with a fascinating insight into the world of rugby and its global reach.
Rugby’s Popularity on a Global Scale
The Growth of Rugby as a Sport
The growth of rugby as a sport has been nothing short of remarkable. Originating in the UK, rugby has spread its wings across the globe, capturing the hearts and minds of people from all walks of life. This section will delve into the factors that have contributed to the exponential growth of rugby as a sport, as well as the challenges faced in its development.
Expansion Beyond the UK
The expansion of rugby beyond the UK can be attributed to a number of factors. The popularity of the sport in Commonwealth countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa has played a significant role in its growth. These nations have not only embraced rugby as their national sport but have also become powerhouses in the international rugby scene. The success of these teams in major tournaments such as the Rugby World Cup has further fuelled the sport’s popularity.
Development of Rugby in Emerging Nations
In recent years, rugby has seen significant growth in emerging nations such as Japan, the United States, and Canada. The inclusion of these countries in major rugby tournaments has provided them with an opportunity to showcase their talent and build a fan base. This has been facilitated by increased investment in grassroots development programs, coaching, and infrastructure. As a result, rugby has gained a foothold in these countries, with participation numbers and spectator interest on the rise.
Challenges and Opportunities
The growth of rugby as a sport has not been without its challenges. The sport’s reputation as a physical and violent game has led to concerns over player safety and welfare. These concerns have resulted in changes to the rules and regulations of the game, aimed at reducing the risk of injury. Despite these challenges, rugby remains a popular and attractive sport, with opportunities for participation and spectatorship at all levels. The global reach of rugby continues to expand, with new markets and audiences being tapped into, and the sport’s popularity showing no signs of waning.
Rugby’s Presence in Various Countries
Rugby has become a popular sport worldwide, with participation numbers growing steadily in various countries. This section will delve into the presence of rugby in different countries, highlighting its growth and popularity.
Southern Hemisphere
The Southern Hemisphere is widely regarded as the stronghold of rugby, with countries such as New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa dominating the sport.
- New Zealand: Known as the “All Blacks,” the New Zealand national rugby team is one of the most successful teams in the world, with a remarkable win rate of over 75%. Rugby is deeply ingrained in the country’s culture, with the sport’s popularity transcending social and economic boundaries.
- Australia: Although Australian rules football (AFL) is more popular in Australia, rugby has a significant following. The Australian national rugby team, the Wallabies, has a rich history, having won the Rugby World Cup in 1991 and reaching the final in 1999.
- South Africa: As the only country in Africa that has hosted the Rugby World Cup, South Africa has a passionate rugby culture. The South African national rugby team, the Springboks, won the Rugby World Cup in 1995, and their victory united the country during a period of racial tension.
Northern Hemisphere
Rugby’s presence in the Northern Hemisphere has been growing steadily, with countries like England, France, and Ireland leading the way.
- England: Rugby union is the most popular form of rugby in England, with the English Rugby Football Union (RFU) overseeing the sport’s development. The English national rugby team, the Red Roses, has a rich history, having won the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2014.
- France: Although football (soccer) is the most popular sport in France, rugby has a significant following. The French national rugby team, Les Bleus, has a rich history, having won the Rugby World Cup in 1991 and 1999.
- Ireland: Rugby has a strong presence in Ireland, with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) governing the sport. The Irish national rugby team, the Irish Rugby Team, has a dedicated fan base and has enjoyed success in recent years, reaching the 2018 Rugby World Cup final.
Other Countries
Other countries around the world are also embracing rugby, with growth seen in nations such as the United States, Japan, and Canada.
- United States: While American football is the dominant football code in the United States, rugby has been growing in popularity in recent years. The United States national rugby team, the Eagles, has seen success on the world stage, reaching the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals in 2019.
- Japan: Japan’s success in hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2019 has sparked a surge in rugby’s popularity in the country. The Japanese national rugby team, the Cherry Blossoms, has a dedicated fan base and has enjoyed success in recent years, winning the Asian Games in 2018.
- Canada: Rugby has a growing presence in Canada, with the Canadian national rugby team, the Canucks, making strides on the world stage. Canada reached the Rugby World Cup for the first time in 2019 and has a dedicated fan base, particularly in the province of British Columbia.
In conclusion, rugby’s presence in various countries around the world is a testament to the sport’s global appeal. From the Southern Hemisphere powerhouses to the growing rugby communities in the Northern Hemisphere and beyond, rugby’s popularity continues to expand, bringing people together and creating a worldwide community of passionate fans.
Player Demographics and Participation
Age and Gender Distribution of Rugby Players
When examining the age and gender distribution of rugby players, it is important to note that these characteristics can vary significantly depending on the specific region or country in question. However, some general trends can be observed on a global scale.
Firstly, it is worth noting that rugby is traditionally considered a sport for men, and this is reflected in the gender distribution of players. In most countries, the vast majority of rugby players are male, with only a small percentage being female. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend towards greater female participation in rugby, particularly in countries where the sport has a long history, such as New Zealand and Australia.
In terms of age distribution, rugby is generally played by people of all ages, from children to adults. However, the sport is often seen as a physically demanding and contact-heavy game, which may explain why participation tends to decrease with age. In many countries, the majority of rugby players are in their teenage years or early twenties, with a smaller number of players in their thirties and forties.
It is also worth noting that the age and gender distribution of rugby players can vary significantly between different levels of the sport. For example, in professional leagues, the majority of players are likely to be male and in their physical prime, while in community leagues, the gender distribution may be more balanced and the age range of players may be more diverse.
Overall, while the age and gender distribution of rugby players varies significantly depending on the specific context, these characteristics can provide valuable insights into the demographics of the sport and the challenges faced by different groups of players.
Skill Levels and Divisions within the Sport
Rugby is a sport that caters to a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to elite athletes. The sport is divided into different divisions, each with its own set of rules and regulations. The following are the main divisions of rugby:
Youth Rugby
Youth rugby is played by children aged between 6 and 18 years old. The rules are modified to suit the age and skill level of the players. The main aim of youth rugby is to introduce children to the sport and to teach them the basic skills of rugby.
High School Rugby
High school rugby is played by students aged between 15 and 18 years old. The rules are similar to those of adult rugby, but with some modifications to suit the age and skill level of the players. High school rugby is a popular sport in many countries, and it provides a platform for young players to develop their skills and compete against other teams.
College Rugby
College rugby is played by students aged between 18 and 24 years old. The rules are similar to those of adult rugby, but with some modifications to suit the age and skill level of the players. College rugby is a popular sport in many countries, and it provides a platform for young players to develop their skills and compete against other teams.
Amateur Rugby
Amateur rugby is played by adults who do not play rugby professionally. The rules are similar to those of adult rugby, but with some modifications to suit the skill level of the players. Amateur rugby is a popular sport in many countries, and it provides a platform for adults to participate in the sport and compete against other teams.
Semi-Professional Rugby
Semi-professional rugby is played by adults who earn a small income from playing rugby. The rules are similar to those of professional rugby, but with some modifications to suit the skill level of the players. Semi-professional rugby is a popular sport in many countries, and it provides a platform for adults to participate in the sport and compete against other teams.
Professional Rugby
Professional rugby is played by adults who earn a significant income from playing rugby. The rules are similar to those of international rugby, but with some modifications to suit the skill level of the players. Professional rugby is a popular sport in many countries, and it provides a platform for adults to participate in the sport and compete against other teams at the highest level.
Accessibility and Inclusivity in Rugby
Accessibility and inclusivity in rugby refer to the efforts made by the sport’s governing bodies, clubs, and organizations to make rugby accessible and inclusive to people of all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or physical ability. In recent years, rugby has taken significant steps to promote inclusivity and accessibility, with a focus on making the sport more diverse and welcoming to everyone.
One of the key initiatives aimed at promoting accessibility and inclusivity in rugby is the “Rugby for All” program, which was launched by the International Rugby Board (IRB) in 2015. The program is designed to promote the development of rugby as a sport for all, with a focus on creating opportunities for people of all ages, genders, and abilities to participate in the sport.
Under the “Rugby for All” program, the IRB has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at promoting accessibility and inclusivity in rugby. These include the development of adapted versions of the sport, such as wheelchair rugby and blind rugby, to make the sport accessible to people with disabilities. The program also includes initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in rugby, such as the “Women in Rugby” program, which aims to increase the participation of women in rugby at all levels of the sport.
In addition to the “Rugby for All” program, many national rugby organizations and clubs have also implemented their own initiatives aimed at promoting accessibility and inclusivity in rugby. For example, the Welsh Rugby Union has launched a program aimed at increasing the participation of girls and women in rugby, while the English Rugby Football Union has launched a program aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in rugby at all levels of the sport.
Overall, the efforts made by rugby’s governing bodies, clubs, and organizations to promote accessibility and inclusivity in rugby are having a positive impact on the sport’s global reach. By making rugby more accessible and inclusive, rugby is able to reach a wider audience and promote greater diversity and inclusion in the sport.
Challenges and Barriers to Entry
While rugby has a significant global reach, there are still challenges and barriers to entry that prevent some individuals from participating in the sport. These challenges can vary depending on the location, resources available, and cultural factors. Some of the common challenges and barriers to entry in rugby include:
- Lack of access to facilities: In some regions, there may be a lack of proper rugby facilities, such as fields, gyms, or training centers, which can limit the number of people who can participate in the sport.
- Limited resources: Participating in rugby requires certain resources, such as equipment, clothing, and transportation, which can be expensive and out of reach for some individuals.
- Cultural barriers: In some cultures, rugby may not be seen as a traditional or accepted sport, which can prevent some individuals from participating.
- Limited knowledge and awareness: In some regions, there may be a lack of knowledge and awareness about rugby, which can prevent people from taking up the sport.
- Injury risks: Rugby is a physically demanding sport that carries a risk of injury, which can deter some individuals from participating.
- Financial barriers: The cost of participating in rugby, including fees, equipment, and travel, can be prohibitive for some individuals.
- Accessibility for people with disabilities: People with disabilities may face additional barriers to entry in rugby, such as lack of accessibility to facilities or adaptive equipment.
Overcoming these challenges and barriers to entry is essential to increasing participation in rugby worldwide. Organizations and stakeholders can work to address these issues by investing in facilities, providing resources and support, promoting the sport, and creating more inclusive and accessible programs.
Rugby’s Impact on Local Communities
Economic Benefits of Rugby
Rugby has a significant impact on local communities, providing not only social and cultural benefits but also economic advantages. The sport generates income through various channels, including ticket sales, merchandise, broadcasting rights, and sponsorships. In addition, rugby tournaments and events attract tourists, contributing to the local economy by increasing spending on accommodations, food, and transportation.
The economic benefits of rugby can be observed at different levels:
- Local: The presence of rugby clubs and teams can stimulate local businesses, as fans and supporters frequent nearby establishments before and after matches. Additionally, rugby events and tournaments held in local stadiums can create job opportunities and boost revenue for the hosting community.
- Regional: Rugby tournaments and competitions often involve teams from different regions, leading to an increase in travel and accommodation demand. This influx of visitors can support local tourism and hospitality industries, providing a positive economic impact.
- National: National rugby teams and competitions can attract significant attention and media coverage, generating revenue through broadcasting rights and advertising. Furthermore, the success of national teams can boost national pride and inspire future generations of rugby players, which can have long-term benefits for the sport’s development and the country’s reputation.
- International: Major international rugby events, such as the Rugby World Cup, can have a substantial economic impact on the host country. These events can attract a large number of visitors, increasing tourism revenue and creating temporary jobs. Additionally, the hosting of prestigious international events can enhance a country’s reputation and encourage further investment in sports infrastructure and tourism development.
Overall, the economic benefits of rugby are substantial and diverse, extending beyond the sport itself to influence the local, regional, national, and international economies.
Cultural Significance and Traditions
Rugby has become deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of many countries, with its history and traditions shaping the sport’s significance in local communities. From the haka, a powerful Maori ceremonial dance performed by the New Zealand All Blacks before each match, to the Welsh rugby union’s annual “Gatland’s Goodbyes” celebration, rugby events and rituals often serve as symbolic representations of national identity and pride.
Some of the most iconic cultural traditions in rugby include:
- The Haka: A ceremonial dance performed by the New Zealand All Blacks before each match, which is a powerful display of Maori culture and tradition. The haka is a fierce, vigorous dance that intimidates opponents and inspires the All Blacks team.
- The Sipi Tau: A traditional South African rugby song and dance that is performed by the Springboks before each match. The Sipi Tau is a call-and-response chant that celebrates the team’s heritage and unity.
- The Celtic War Cry: A tradition started by the Welsh rugby union team, where players gather in a circle and sing the national anthem and other traditional songs before each match. This tradition is known as “Gatland’s Goodbyes” and has become a symbol of Welsh rugby pride and identity.
These cultural traditions and rituals serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for rugby players and fans alike, embodying the spirit and passion of the sport. Rugby’s impact on local communities extends beyond the field, as the sport has become a symbol of national identity and pride, connecting people across generations and cultures.
Rugby as a Platform for Social Change
Rugby is a sport that has a unique ability to bring people together and create positive change in local communities. This is especially true in areas where rugby is not yet widely played, as the sport can provide a platform for social change and development.
One way that rugby is used as a platform for social change is through the creation of community-based rugby programs. These programs often target disadvantaged youth and aim to provide them with positive role models, as well as opportunities to learn valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and respect.
In addition to community-based programs, rugby is also used as a tool for social change in conflict-affected areas. The sport can help to build trust and understanding between different groups, and can provide a positive outlet for young people who may be at risk of being drawn into violence and conflict.
Furthermore, rugby can also be used as a means of promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. There are now many initiatives around the world that aim to increase the participation of women and girls in rugby, and to provide them with the same opportunities as their male counterparts.
Overall, rugby’s ability to bring people together and promote positive change in local communities makes it a powerful tool for social development. By harnessing this power, rugby can continue to make a positive impact on people’s lives around the world.
Promoting Inclusivity and Diversity
Rugby is a sport that has been historically associated with a particular social class and race, but it has made significant strides in recent years to become more inclusive and diverse. Rugby’s efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity have had a profound impact on local communities around the world.
Creating Opportunities for People of All Backgrounds
Rugby has taken steps to create opportunities for people of all backgrounds to participate in the sport. This includes initiatives such as “Rugby for All,” which encourages people of all ages, genders, and abilities to get involved in rugby. This initiative has helped to create a more diverse and inclusive rugby community, with people from all walks of life coming together to play the sport they love.
Embracing Diversity and Inclusion
Rugby has also embraced diversity and inclusion in its leadership and governance. The sport has made efforts to recruit and retain people from diverse backgrounds in leadership positions, and has implemented policies to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and with respect. This has helped to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all players, coaches, and fans.
Challenging Stereotypes and Promoting Positive Change
Finally, rugby has played a key role in challenging stereotypes and promoting positive change in local communities around the world. By promoting inclusivity and diversity, rugby has helped to break down barriers and challenge traditional notions of what it means to be a rugby player. This has helped to create a more positive and welcoming environment for everyone involved in the sport.
Overall, rugby’s efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity have had a profound impact on local communities around the world. By creating opportunities for people of all backgrounds, embracing diversity and inclusion in leadership and governance, and challenging stereotypes and promoting positive change, rugby has helped to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone involved in the sport.
The Future of Rugby Participation
Trends and Forecasts for Rugby’s Popularity
The future of rugby participation looks promising, with trends and forecasts indicating a continued growth in popularity for the sport worldwide. Some of the key trends and forecasts for rugby’s popularity include:
- Expansion of Rugby Sevens: The success of Rugby Sevens at the Olympics has led to increased interest in the sport, with many countries investing in sevens programs and hosting international tournaments. This trend is expected to continue, with sevens set to become a core part of the sport’s development strategy.
- Growth in Women’s Rugby: Women’s rugby is experiencing a surge in popularity, with more countries investing in women’s rugby programs and hosting international tournaments. This trend is expected to continue, with the women’s game set to become a major part of the sport’s development strategy.
- Increased Participation in Emerging Markets: Rugby is experiencing a surge in popularity in emerging markets such as Asia, Africa, and the Americas. This trend is expected to continue, with many countries investing in rugby development programs and hosting international tournaments.
- Technological Advancements: Technology is playing an increasingly important role in rugby, with advancements in areas such as sports analytics, video analysis, and wearable technology helping to improve player performance and coaching techniques. This trend is expected to continue, with technology set to play an even greater role in the sport’s development.
- Globalization of the Sport: Rugby is becoming increasingly globalized, with more countries participating in international competitions and the sport’s governing bodies working to promote the sport worldwide. This trend is expected to continue, with rugby set to become an even more globalized sport in the years to come.
Overall, these trends and forecasts indicate that rugby’s popularity is set to continue growing in the years to come, with the sport poised to become an even more globalized and inclusive sport.
Challenges and Opportunities for Growth
While rugby has seen tremendous growth in participation numbers worldwide, there are still challenges and opportunities for growth that must be addressed in order to ensure the continued success of the sport. In this section, we will explore some of the key challenges and opportunities facing rugby as it looks towards the future.
Lack of Funding and Resources
One of the biggest challenges facing rugby in many countries is a lack of funding and resources. In order to grow the sport, it is important to invest in the infrastructure and resources necessary to support it. This includes things like training facilities, equipment, and coaching education programs.
Limited Access to the Sport
Another challenge facing rugby is limited access to the sport, particularly in developing countries. In many cases, the cost of playing the sport, as well as the lack of accessible facilities, makes it difficult for people to get involved. This is particularly true for women and girls, who are often faced with additional barriers to entry.
As rugby looks towards the future, it is important to embrace diversity and inclusion in all its forms. This includes ensuring that the sport is accessible to people of all backgrounds, races, and cultures. It also means promoting and supporting initiatives that encourage diversity and inclusion within the sport.
Embracing Technology and Innovation
Finally, rugby must embrace technology and innovation in order to continue to grow and evolve. This includes things like using data and analytics to improve performance, as well as exploring new technologies like virtual reality and artificial intelligence. By embracing these tools, rugby can continue to innovate and stay ahead of the curve.
In conclusion, while rugby has made significant strides in terms of participation numbers worldwide, there are still challenges and opportunities for growth that must be addressed. By investing in infrastructure and resources, promoting diversity and inclusion, and embracing technology and innovation, rugby can continue to grow and thrive both on and off the field.
Reflecting on the Global Reach of Rugby
Rugby has come a long way since its inception in the 19th century, and its popularity has grown exponentially over the years. With the Rugby World Cup being one of the most-watched sporting events globally, it’s evident that rugby has a significant following worldwide. In this section, we will reflect on the global reach of rugby and examine how it has managed to captivate audiences across continents.
One of the main reasons behind rugby’s global appeal is its ability to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. The sport has a unique culture that has managed to resonate with people from different backgrounds, making it one of the most inclusive sports in the world. Additionally, rugby’s growth has been fueled by its commitment to development and outreach programs, which have helped to expand its reach in emerging markets.
Another key factor that has contributed to rugby’s global reach is its commitment to innovation and technology. The sport has embraced modern technology and data analysis to improve its performance and increase fan engagement. This has enabled rugby to attract new audiences and keep existing ones engaged, even in the absence of live matches.
However, despite its global appeal, rugby still faces challenges in terms of participation rates, particularly in developing countries. Limited access to resources, lack of infrastructure, and cultural barriers are some of the factors that have hindered the growth of rugby in these regions. Therefore, it’s crucial for rugby stakeholders to develop strategies that will promote participation and growth in these areas.
In conclusion, rugby’s global reach is a testament to its ability to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. However, there is still work to be done to ensure that the sport is accessible to everyone, regardless of their location or circumstances. By investing in development programs and embracing innovation, rugby can continue to grow and thrive as a global sport.
The Continued Evolution of the Sport
As rugby continues to grow in popularity worldwide, it is important to recognize the ways in which the sport is evolving. This evolution is driven by a variety of factors, including changes in technology, the influence of other sports, and shifts in societal values. In this section, we will explore some of the key trends that are shaping the future of rugby participation.
The Influence of Technology
One of the most significant factors driving the evolution of rugby is technology. Advances in equipment, training techniques, and data analysis are transforming the way the sport is played and coached. For example, the use of GPS tracking and video analysis is becoming increasingly common in elite rugby, allowing coaches to better understand the movements of players and identify areas for improvement.
In addition, technological innovations are making it easier for rugby to reach new audiences. Online platforms and social media are providing new opportunities for fans to engage with the sport, while also enabling players and coaches to connect with each other and share knowledge across borders.
The Influence of Other Sports
Another important factor shaping the future of rugby is the influence of other sports. As rugby looks to expand its global reach, it is increasingly looking to other sports for inspiration. For example, the introduction of sevens rugby at the Olympics has helped to boost the profile of the sport, while also encouraging the development of new playing styles and tactics.
Similarly, the rise of American football in the United States has led to increased interest in rugby, with many players and coaches crossing over between the two sports. This exchange of ideas and practices is helping to drive the evolution of rugby, as the sport seeks to maintain its relevance in a rapidly changing world.
Shifts in Societal Values
Finally, shifts in societal values are also playing a role in the evolution of rugby. As concerns about issues such as player welfare and diversity and inclusion grow, the sport is responding by implementing new policies and practices. For example, many rugby organizations are now placing a greater emphasis on player wellbeing, with measures such as increased access to mental health support and stricter rules around concussion management.
Similarly, efforts are being made to increase diversity and inclusion within the sport, with initiatives aimed at encouraging participation from underrepresented groups. These efforts are helping to ensure that rugby remains a sport for all, as it continues to grow and evolve in the years ahead.
FAQs
1. How many people play rugby globally?
It’s difficult to provide an exact number, but according to the World Rugby (WR) annual report, there are approximately 9.2 million people playing rugby across 120 countries. The sport is most popular in nations such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, with a combined total of over 6 million players.
2. Is rugby more popular in certain regions?
Yes, rugby is more popular in certain regions, particularly in the Southern Hemisphere. In 2019, World Rugby reported that 6.5 million players were registered in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa alone. The United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland, has around 2 million players. France, with over 250,000 registered players, is the leading rugby nation in Europe.
3. What is the gender distribution of rugby players?
Although there is a significant number of male players, rugby is also popular among women. The number of registered female players has been growing steadily. In 2019, there were over 2.7 million female rugby players globally, with the majority participating in seven-a-side and ten-a-side formats.
4. How many rugby players are there in Asia?
Asia has the largest population of any continent, and while rugby is not as popular as in other regions, the sport is growing in Asia. In 2019, there were over 330,000 registered rugby players in Asia, with Japan leading the way with nearly 200,000 players. Other countries with significant rugby participation include Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea.
5. What is the age distribution of rugby players?
Rugby is played by people of all ages, from children to seniors. The majority of registered players are likely to be between the ages of 18 and 45. However, many countries have youth development programs, and the number of under-18 players is substantial. In addition, there are many veteran and masters rugby tournaments for older players, indicating that rugby is a sport for life.
6. Is rugby a growing sport?
Yes, rugby is a growing sport globally. World Rugby has been actively promoting the growth of the sport, particularly in non-traditional rugby nations. The number of registered players has increased in recent years, with many new countries adopting rugby as a popular sport. In addition, rugby sevens, a faster and more accessible format of the game, has helped expand the sport’s reach.
7. What is the future of rugby participation?
The future of rugby participation looks promising, with the sport’s growing popularity worldwide. World Rugby’s strategic plans aim to increase participation and grow the game. Rugby sevens, which made its Olympic debut in 2016, has contributed to the sport’s growth, and more nations are investing in rugby development programs. With continued growth, rugby could become one of the world’s most popular sports.
