10 Rarely Heard Stories from Rugby’s Legacy

Origin Myth William Webb Ellis’s 1823 ball-carrying tale is legendary, but not historically confirmed

Ball Shape Early balls used pig bladders, making them plum-shaped; rubber tubes later gave the oval form.

No Hands Rule Originally, players couldn’t use hands to pass; the forward pass came later

Rugby Values Known for fairness, respect, and camaraderie on and off the field

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Historic Whistle Same whistle has been used to start every Rugby World Cup since 1905

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Early Pay Talks Rugby players were being considered for compensation for time away from their jobs as early as 1892

First Internationals The 1871 England–Scotland match was rugby’s first international, forming the basis of the "Home Nations" with Ireland

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Biggest Stadium Twickenham in England is the world’s largest rugby stadium

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IOC Recognition: Rugby became an officially recognized Olympic sport in 1995

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World cup debut Rugby’s World Cup is a modern competition, first introduced in 1987

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