Could I play lock?

Question
Hi Nick

I'm looking at returning to rugby this year in New Zealand after a few years of football and I'm wondering if 179cm is too small to play lock in an under 70kg grade? I'm 16 used to play lock when I was a few cms smaller than this height about 3 years ago in an under 53kg grade. However, I was one of the tallest back then and these days I'm only above average in height, is it essential to be one of the tallest as a lock or will my height be alright?

Ideally I'd like to go back to my old position (nothing beats "the engine room" in my opinion :D) but if lock wouldn't be the best position what would be some alternatives? I'm a good, aggressive runner of the ball with strength and pace. Unfortunately, I'm not so good under the high ball but can pass well and have a good kick on me. Ideally I'd like to play in the forwards but what's it like playing in the backs? There doesn't seem to be nearly as much "getting stuck in" and you seem to be waiting for the ball half the time hahaha.

Thanks in advance!
Joseph

PS is it unorthodox for a lock on the right side of the scrum to bind with his right knee down as opposed to his left?

Answer
Hi Joseph,

I think you can play lock. At the level of rugby you are talking about (all respect) the pickiness of things like height of locks is not really needed. With lifting you might even be more affective if you have a relatively tall lifter. Don't sweat it mate play lock and frankly stay in the forwards unless your team is really low on backs, you will get more game involvement at lock. If you really want to go for it though just do it, rugby is for fun so do what you like.

The knee thing is a iffy call. I feel that as long as the situation is safe then make it work. I have some links that might help:

Srummaging:



My favourite:  http://www.coachingrugby.com/rugby/coaching/unitskills/scrum/buildingthescrum.ht...



http://www.usarugby.org/media/EDocs/scrum.pdf





http://www.texasyouthrugby.com/download/748/docs/Building_the_scrum.pdf