May 2023 – What We Talked About at Portsmouth Rugby Club

May brought two juicy topics that sparked a lot of chat in our community. First, we asked the age‑old question: are NFL players really faster than rugby players? Then we turned the spotlight on the sport we love and wondered why rugby isn’t a household name worldwide. Both posts are packed with facts, fan opinions and a few surprises.

Are NFL Players Faster Than Rugby Players?

We kicked off the month by digging into sprint times, acceleration and the way each sport tests speed. NFL wide receivers and cornerbacks typically clock 40‑yard dashes in the 4.3‑4.5 second range – numbers that look impressive on paper. Rugby backs, on the other hand, often run 10‑meter splits in about 1.6 seconds and cover a 30‑meter sprint in roughly 3.5 seconds. When you break it down, NFL athletes have an edge in short‑burst speed because the game rewards explosive bursts in controlled, set‑piece situations.

But speed isn’t the whole story. Rugby players cover 70‑80 metres in a single play while staying on their feet for 80‑90 minutes. That demands a blend of endurance, repeated high‑intensity effort and the ability to change direction on uneven ground. In contrast, NFL plays last about 5‑7 seconds before the whistle blows, so athletes can front‑load their training for pure sprint power.

So, yes – NFL players generally sprint faster, but rugby players boast greater overall athleticism. They need to tackle, ruck, sprint, and keep moving without a break. The takeaway? Speed is sport‑specific, and each code builds the kind of fast‑twitch muscle you need for its own challenges.

Why Isn’t Rugby More Popular Around the World?

Our second post tackled a question many newcomers ask: if rugby’s so exciting, why doesn’t it dominate global headlines like soccer? A big part of the answer lies in the sport’s complexity. The rules – off‑loads, rucks, mauls, line‑outs – can feel like a maze for first‑timers. Without clear, simple explanations, casual fans often switch to something they can pick up instantly.

Marketing matters too. Rugby unions in New Zealand, South Africa and the UK have deep‑rooted histories and solid TV deals, but many emerging markets lack the same broadcast push. When a sport isn’t on the prime‑time schedule, it stays out of the conversation, and sponsors follow suit.

Physical intensity is another double‑edged sword. The sport’s rugged nature draws die‑hard fans, yet it can intimidate those who aren’t ready for bruises and heavy contact. Schools that don’t offer rugby as a starter sport miss out on early exposure, which in turn limits the talent pipeline and fan base.

Cultural preferences shape everything. In countries where cricket, basketball or American football dominate, rugby competes for attention, facilities and funding. Even the word “rugby” can feel foreign without local heroes to rally behind.

Overall, the sport’s growth hinges on simplifying the rules for newcomers, boosting media coverage and creating clear pathways for youth participation. When those pieces click, you’ll see more people lining up for a match.

That wraps up May’s deep‑dive topics. Whether you’re curious about sprint stats or wondering how to spread the love of rugby worldwide, we hope these posts gave you fresh angles. Got thoughts? Drop a comment, share with a mate, or swing by the club for a chat. See you on the field!