Union

The term 'union' refers to the coming together (or joining) of two of more objects, people or organisations. It has many many different contexts under which it applies.

The European Union consists of many member states within Europe and is an intergovernmental organisation. It has 27 member states and began in 1957 when it had just 6 members. The purpose of the European union (or EU) as it is more commonly known, was to create a single market for its member states under which the movement of people, goods, services or financial capital, could move freely. 1999 it also developed its own currency, called the Euro, and 13 of the 27 members currently use it. Additionally, it also has a role in home affairs, foreign policy and the justice system of member countries.

Rugby Union is often simply referred to as Rugby. It is a game played with an oval ball and involves a team of 15 players, 8 forwards and 7 backs. The forwards are numbers 1 to 8 and the backs 9 to 15. There can be anything up to 7 reserves depending on the level and nature of the game that is being played. The main job of the forward players is to get and keep hold of the ball. They take part in what is known as the scrum and the line out. They are usually physically larger than the backs being a bit stronger, but therefore a bit slower.

The focus of the back players is to kick the ball and run with it. A backline will try to score tries by tactical means and by creating holes in the defence line of their opposition. Traditionally, Rugby players wear a coloured jersey and each team has its own colours, as well as shorts and appropriate boots. They may also wear a mouthguard to prevent chipped or missing teeth!