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Field Dimensions & Layout

Rugby fields are larger than football fields and must follow strict guidelines set by governing bodies like World Rugby.

• Total field size: 100 meters (328 feet) long and 70 meters (230 feet) wide.
• In-goal areas: The in-goal areas (end zones) are a minimum of 10 meters (32.8 feet) deep but can be up to 22 meters
(72.2 feet).
• Try lines: These mark the start of the in-goal areas.
• Dead-ball lines: The outer boundaries of the in-goal areas.
• Halfway line: Divides the field into two equal halves.
• 22-meter lines: Located 22 meters from each try line,
used for drop-outs and other restart situations.
• 5-meter and 15-meter lines: Parallel to the sidelines,
used for lineout formations and positioning.

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Field Surface Options

Rugby fields can be constructed using natural grass, synthetic turf, or hybrid (a mix of natural and synthetic).

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each:

• Preferred for traditional play.
• Softer, more forgiving surface, reducing player injuries.

• Requires regular maintenance (mowing, watering, fertilizing).
• Can become muddy and uneven in heavy rain.

Pros:

Cons:

Natural Grass

• Low maintenance, no watering or mowing required.
• Drains quickly and stays playable even after heavy rain.
• Durable and suitable for high-usage environments (multiple games or practices).

• Can become hot in direct sunlight.
• Harder surface increases injury risk, though modern turfs with infill help cushion impact.

Pros:

Cons:

Artificial Turf

• Combines the durability of synthetic
turf with the natural feel of grass.
• Lower maintenance compared
to pure grass fields.

• Higher initial cost compared to natural grass alone.

Pros:

Cons:

Hybrid (Natural + Synthetic)

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Sub-base and Drainage

Proper drainage is critical to the performance and longevity
of a rugby field, especially for natural grass surfaces.

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Field Markings

Rugby field markings are crucial for gameplay. The markings are typically painted with non-toxic, weather-resistant paint.
If you’re constructing a synthetic turf field, these lines can be permanently integrated into the turf during production.

• Halfway line
• 22-meter lines
• 5-meter and 15-meter lines
• Try lines
• Dead-ball lines

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Goalposts

Rugby goalposts are positioned on the try lines at each end
of the field. The posts are 5.6 meters (18.4 feet) apart and must stand at least 3.4 meters (11.2 feet) high with a horizontal crossbar at 3 meters (9.8 feet) above the ground.

Aluminum or steel:
These are durable, rust-resistant materials typically
used for rugby posts.

Padding:
Goalpost pads are installed at the base of each
post to protect players from injury during collisions.

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Irrigation (For Natural Grass Fields)

If your client is opting for a natural grass rugby field,
a well-planned irrigation system is essential. Install a network
of underground sprinklers to evenly distribute water and keep the grass healthy, especially in dry or hot climates.

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Lighting

If the rugby field will be used for evening or night matches, proper lighting is necessary.

Pole placement:
Typically, light poles are placed at strategic points
along the sides of the field, especially near the corners
and center.

Light intensity:
Rugby fields require higher lux levels than recreational
fields, typically between 200-500 lux, depending
on the level of play.

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Fencing and Surrounding Facilities

To protect the field and manage spectators:

Perimeter fencing:
Install fencing around the entire field, ideally at least 4-6 meters high.

Spectator stands:
Depending on the client’s needs, install seating for fans. This could range from small bleachers to larger grandstands.

Player benches and dugouts:
For professional or semi-professional fields, install covered benches for players, coaches, and team staff.

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