should i play rugby ? if yes, which type ?

Question
QUESTION: i am chinese, 19 years old, 5'11 and 198 lbs. i am pretty sure that not many asians play rugby but i am really interested in picking up this sport. but i am not really sure if it's a good idea to do so. i have never played rugby before in my whole life and besides swimming, no other sports as well. i do go to gym 3 times a week. so it would be really nice if you can give me some advice on whether it's a good idea for me to join my university's rugby team.

and if yes, i am not sure whether rugby union or league would be more suitable for me.

thank you very much.

ANSWER: I say play Rugby Union not  league there is a position for every body type and allows for fast slow big and small players. Also Rugby Union is more prevalent around the world so if you ever travel or move to another town / country there is a greater chance you will find a rugby team to associate with and get a network of friends going.

League is a fun challenging game but is as established globally as Union is.

I suggest getting a copy of "Rugby for Dummies" and Googling Rugby for information about the game, even Wikipedia.

Planet Rugby, Media Zone have online links to real games and UTube has a number of good coaching clips.

Once at the club make it clear you are new and do your best to listen and learn.

Have fun!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thank you for the explanation. i had definitely understand a lot more about rugby now but i will still try to understand more about it online. i am going to get in touch with my university's rugby team and see how it goes.

so is my physique suitable for rugby ? i am under the impression that rugby players have to be of a certain type of physique but i am not really sure.

Answer
Hi again Alvin,

I think you should really pick up a copy of "Rugby for Dummies" read it cover to cover. It explains the whole game of rugby and more importantly the culture of rugby and the participants.

Don't over think this, your physical attributes are fine, rugby is played from the ages of under 5's all the way up to "golden oldies" where to play you have to be over 60.

There is a whole rugby tournament on Catalina Island that you have to be over 40 to play on.

Rugby is the game for all shapes and sizes as well as sexes. Women rugby is strong in the USA and the world. There are even teams that are openly "out" in the regular leagues. All are part of the rugby community.

Especially at university rugby is the best way to meet new mates and generally have a good time.

Learn up on the game, keep fit and learn as much as you can.

Play lots of rugby, view lots of rugby and talk rugby with your team mates. Play a few positions and see which you like the best!

Once you get to your team and practice the coach and your team mates will surely guide you in the right direction. It will take a few seasons to "get" the game so just be in the moment with regards to your team and playing.

Have fun!