SA's official Rugby guide hits shelves

WHAT good timing! This book - Play Rugby - could not have been released at a better time.

TITLE: Play Rugby

AUTHOR: Andy Colquhoun

PUBLISHER: Pearson

REVIEWER: Sello Rabothata

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With the Rugby World Cup kicking off on Friday in New Zealand, this book is a must-have for those who want to brush up on their knowledge of the great game.

The press release promoting this book says: "the result is a beautifully designed full-colour 80-page book perfect for eight to 14-year-olds and for anybody who needs to brush up on any aspect of the game. The book contains everything you need to know to become a rugby star."

The wanting to become a "rugby star" part is probably aimed at the younger set - as age is still on their side. But, for those of us who grew up during the apartheid years and hated the sport with a passion, this book can turn you into an instant rugby fundi. Karen Simpson, publisher at Pearson, says: "We've paid special attention to the look and feel of the book and to making sure the content is varied, relevant, exciting and easy to read."

Readers can:

• Find out everything there is to know about the field itself, what happens behind the scenes and what rules; and laws they need to know;
• Read more about their favourite rugby competitions, teams and heroes and study all the latest statistics;
• Find out what a warm-up entails, how to keep the game safe and what players do to stay healthy; and
• Follow step-by-step instructions that show you how to kick, catch, pass and tackle just like your rugby heroes.

Andy Colquhoun, Strategic Communications Manager at SA Rugby Union (Saru) is the author of the book.

The introduction is written by Springbok captain John Smit and many other famous South African players are featured in the book.The book also features action photographs, Bokkie cartoons (Bokkie is the Saru mascot), activities, quizzes and a bonus DVD containing Bokkie animations.

Play Rugby is also available in Afrikaans as Speel Rugby. They are available at all leading bookshops and online.