Overhead flat-lay photograph of a worn leather Rugby Fives glove resting on a dark wooden court floor, with a hand-stitched ball nearby; deep browns, burgundy shadows, and warm cream highlights evoke a vintage sporting atmosphere.
A circular emblem featuring crossed hands in silhouette against a maroon and gold shield, surrounded by the words Rugby Fives Association.

Rugby Fives Association

The governing body for Rugby Fives — promoting play, coaching and competition across the UK

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News

TitleDateExcerpt
Planning a Rugby Fives Coaching Weekend That Brings Players TogetherRugby Fives is one of those rare sporting pursuits where a single hard-walled court absorbs an entire weekend of drills, banter and competitive match play.…
The Story Behind the Rugby Fives Handicap SystemThe handicap system is a defining feature of competitive Rugby Fives, offering players of every standard a pathway to meaningful matches. Its history reflects…
Stronger shoulders for better Rugby Fives performanceRugby Fives rewards players who can generate serious force through their arms and shoulders, particularly when delivering the trademark overhead serve or…
Hosting a Charity Rugby Fives Marathon in AustraliaA Rugby Fives marathon is a continuous or extended-format event where players rotate through matches over several hours, often raising money through entry…
How Rugby Fives Can Strengthen Student WellbeingStudent wellbeing includes far more than physical fitness. It covers confidence, emotional regulation, friendships, concentration, belonging and the ability to…
Mentally preparing for a Rugby Fives finalA Rugby Fives final rewards players who can hold their nerve in the closing exchanges of a tight third game. The sport is unforgiving to those who allow…
The Evolution of Rugby Fives Court Dimensions Over TimeRugby Fives is often described through its fast hand play, close walls and demanding changes of direction. Yet the court itself is just as important to the…
Starting a Rugby Fives School Club at Your Australian SchoolRugby Fives remains a quiet curiosity in Australia, with courts existing at only a handful of independent schools and almost no presence in the state system.…
Indoor rugby fives alternatives for rainy daysRain can quickly disrupt an outdoor training plan, but it does not have to stop Rugby Fives altogether. Wet courts, slippery surfaces and poor visibility…
Sharpening Your Backhand in Rugby FivesRugby Fives rewards players who can dictate the rally from the back of the court, and few shots shape a match quite like a reliable backhand. Whether you are…
A close-up photograph of a player's hand striking a small leather ball against a cream-coloured court wall, motion blur conveying speed; warm natural light from above.

What is Fives?

A handball sport with deep roots

Rugby Fives is a fast, skilful handball game played in an enclosed court with walls. It takes its name from Rugby School, where the modern game developed. The RFA provides resources and an introductory video for newcomers eager to understand the rules and spirit of the sport.

Discover the game
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Where to Play

Courts across the country

Rugby Fives is played at schools, universities and clubs throughout the UK. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or picking up a glove for the first time, the RFA can help connect you with local venues and fellow players.

Find a court
A panoramic photograph of a tournament in progress across multiple courts, with players in white kit moving against cream walls; warm ambient light and a sense of quiet concentration.
An overhead flat-lay photograph of a handwritten tournament draw sheet on cream paper, with a fountain pen, a leather-bound record book, and a pair of well-worn gloves arranged neatly.

Rankings

Tracking the best in the game

The RFA maintains official player rankings, including a dedicated Women's rankings list and end-of-season standings. A comprehensive record book of tournament winners stretches back to 1925, preserving nearly a century of competitive history.

View rankings
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Fixtures & Tournaments

The competitive calendar

The RFA calendar includes championships, open tournaments, and school and university matches. Major events have included the National Open Singles, the South West Open, the London Open, the Scottish Open, and the Owers Trophy — alongside representative fixtures against schools and clubs.

See fixtures
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Archive

Nearly a century of history

The RFA archive, cared for by Hon Archivist David Barnes, holds news reports and results from 1998–2018, action photographs, school and club histories, articles, tributes, obituaries, and a map of Fives places around the world. Earlier material is drawn from the former RFA website.

Explore the archive
A wide photograph of a packed gallery at a Rugby Fives tournament, with spectators lining the court balcony; warm cream walls and maroon accents in the crowd.

Get in Touch