The Best Rugby Books and Documentaries for Fans and Players

18 June 2025

If you're anything like me, then rugby isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. Whether you're a seasoned player, a die-hard fan, or someone who just loves a good sports story, there’s nothing better than digging into a powerful rugby book or watching a gripping documentary that brings the game to life.

The energy, the discipline, the heart, and sometimes the heartbreak—it’s all there. But with so much content out there, where do you start? Don't worry. I've gone deep into the rucks and mauls of rugby literature and media to bring you a curated list of the best rugby books and documentaries that should absolutely be on your radar.

Why Rugby Books and Documentaries Matter

Let's be real—rugby is not just about brute strength and tackles. It’s about strategy, camaraderie, and resilience. Sometimes, the lessons learned on and off the pitch are best explained through stories. That's where books and documentaries come in. They give you access to locker room confessions, legendary moments, and brutally honest reflections.

Reading or watching these gems doesn't just keep the rugby spirit alive during the off-season. It also sharpens your understanding of the game, and hey—don't we all want to sound a little smarter during halftime chats?

Must-Read Rugby Books for Fans and Players

1. "Legacy" by James Kerr

If you only pick one book from this list, make it this one. "Legacy" goes beyond rugby. It’s a deep dive into the culture of the All Blacks—arguably the most legendary team in rugby history. It explores how the team built a winning mindset and why humility is a big part of their success.

Whether you're leading a team or just trying to better yourself, this book will hit you in the feels—and your brain.

> "Better people make better All Blacks." — That’s the kind of wisdom "Legacy" delivers.

2. "The Test" by Brian O'Driscoll

Ever wondered what goes on in the mind of a rugby genius? Brian O'Driscoll’s autobiography is raw, honest, and surprisingly emotional. He talks about soaring highs and crushing lows, injuries, and battles with self-doubt—all from a player who is considered one of the greatest centers in the sport.

It's not just a book; it’s a window into the soul of professional rugby.

3. "Ruck Me" by James Haskell

Need a bit of humor with your scrums? James Haskell’s "Ruck Me" is laugh-out-loud funny but also incredibly insightful. He doesn’t just share locker room antics. He gives you an unfiltered look at what it means to be a modern rugby player, both on and off the pitch.

Haskell breaks down everything—from training regimes to social media drama—with brutal honesty. It’s kind of like listening to your rugby-obsessed mate after a couple of pints—but smarter.

4. "My Life in Rugby" by Gareth Thomas

This book is not just about rugby. It’s about courage—on and off the field. Gareth Thomas was one of the first openly gay professional rugby players. His story is powerful, raw, and will leave a lasting impression. He talks about the pressure, the bullying, and the eventual liberation that came when he finally came out.

Read this one if you're looking for something that goes beyond the scoreboard.

5. "Engage: The Fall and Rise of Matt Hampson" by Paul Kimmage

This book will break your heart and then piece it back together. Matt Hampson was a promising young England player whose life changed after a training injury left him paralyzed from the neck down. What he does afterward? Nothing short of incredible.

It’s an inspiring read about resilience, attitude, and the unbreakable spirit of a true rugby warrior.

Top-Rated Rugby Documentaries Worth Watching

Let’s face it—sometimes, you just want to kick back with a beer and watch some epic rugby. These documentaries are perfect for that. They're emotional, intense, and will have you cheering (or crying) from your couch.

1. "Chasing Great" — The Richie McCaw Story

This doco follows one of rugby’s most iconic figures—Richie McCaw. The New Zealand captain who led the All Blacks to two World Cup wins opens up about leadership, pressure, and legacy. It’s personal and powerful with real behind-the-scenes moments that fans don’t usually get to see.

Even if you're not a Kiwi fan (no judgment here), you’ll be glued to the screen.

2. "The Story of Rugby"

This one’s for the history buffs. It takes you on a journey through the origins of rugby, from muddy English fields to global championships. Narrated with passion and packed with archival footage, it’s a beautiful homage to the sport's evolution.

Also, bonus—it’s perfect for new fans to get up to speed quickly.

3. "XV: Beyond the Tryline"

This Netflix gem peeks inside the world of international rugby. It features legends like Dan Carter and Jonny Wilkinson and gives you a mix of player interviews, fan culture, and thrilling match footage.

It answers the question: why is rugby more than just a game?

Short answer? Because it's a way of life.

4. "Oceans Apart: Greed, Betrayal and Pacific Island Rugby"

If you want a gut punch of reality, watch this. It exposes the exploitation of Pacific Island players and how they’re often underpaid and overlooked despite making massive contributions to world rugby.

Presented by former player Dan Leo, this isn’t an easy watch. But it's one of the most important ones. It’s rugby at its most raw and real.

5. "Building Jerusalem"

Love a good underdog story? "Building Jerusalem" captures England’s road to winning the 2003 Rugby World Cup. It’s got drama, grit, and that unforgettable drop goal from Jonny Wilkinson. If you lived through it, this will hit all the nostalgia buttons. If not, welcome to greatness.

How to Get the Most Out of These Stories

So, you’ve added a few titles to your Amazon cart or Netflix queue—awesome. But here’s a pro tip: don’t just consume these books and documentaries. Reflect on them. Think about how these stories can impact your own approach to the game, whether you're on the field or cheering from the stands.

Ask yourself:

- What leadership lessons can I take from Richie McCaw or Brian O’Driscoll?
- How can I build mental resilience like Matt Hampson?
- Am I appreciating the sacrifices players make, like those shown in "Oceans Apart"?

Rugby isn't just a 15-a-side game; it's a lifelong lesson in character, struggle, and triumph.

Bonus Picks for Hardcore Fans

Still hungry for more rugby content? Here are some hidden gems that often get overlooked:

- "Unholy Union: When Rugby Met Rock & Roll" by James Stafford – A quirky but fascinating tale intertwining music and rugby culture in Wales.
- "Kieran Read: Straight 8" – A deep dive into the psyche of one of New Zealand’s most influential captains.
- "The Rugby Codebreakers" (Documentary) – Highlights the racial barriers faced by Māori and Polynesian players and how they changed the face of rugby in Australia and New Zealand.

Sometimes the best stories are the ones that aren’t front and center.

Final Thoughts

Rugby is brutal, beautiful, and brilliantly messy. And the best way to honor the game we love? Dive into its rich tapestry of stories. Whether you’re reading about a legendary try or watching a player’s journey through adversity, these books and documentaries give us more than entertainment—they give us inspiration.

So next time you’re off the field or missing a match, grab one of these reads or hit play on a doc. You'll come away with more respect, more knowledge, and probably a few happy (or emotional) tears.

Keep your heart in the game—even when the whistle’s silent.