Snow Rugby is a variation of Rugby Union in which matches are played on fields covered with snow. The sport was inspired by rugby union matches that were being played in extreme cold and on snow-filled fields.
The playing field used for snow rugby is exactly the same size as that of a rugby union field. The field should be covered with deep snow at least about the shin level. The sport is played in Argentina, Canada, the Baltic states, Kashmir region in India, northern USA, Russia and other ex-soviet union countries, and Finland.
A regular rugby union ball used is used. Players wear attire that is conducive to play in snow for extended periods without causing any harm. The number of players, the duration of the game, the rules of the game, the game play, and scoring are all exactly the same as rugby sevens.
Most tournaments for snow rugby are usually conducted alongside major Rugby Union competitions like World Cups. The most recent was the "20 Below Rugby in the Snow" tournament held at Mount Dobson in 2011. Occasionally exclusive snow rugby tournaments are conducted in some snow rugby playing nations.
Similar Sports
- Beach Rugby — a version of rugby union played on sand.
- Rugby Union — played on a grass field by two opposing teams with two H-shaped goalposts at opposite sides.
- Snow Golf — like regular golf, however the golf course is covered with snow and ice, rather than grass.
- Snow Polo — a variation of Polo on horseback that is played on compacted snow on flat ground or a frozen lake.
- Snow Volleyball — a variation of beach volleyball in which the games are played in the snow.
- Swamp Football — association football matches played in bogs or swamps
Related Pages
- Complete list of sports
- The Encyclopedia of Sports