Binge drinking is an integral part of the social experience of the UOB rugby team for all members. 1st years feel they are peer pressured into drinking to fit in with the rest of the team while older members recognise the importance of drinking but don’t feel the pressure to drink due to their rank/ status. As they gain access to alcohol at considerably cheaper prices due to being students, they don’t see any reason for members not to drink. The majority of the team consumed before coming to university and already played/participated in rugby teams so knew and understood the culture and the running of social circles. All members also failed to acknowledge the drinking they were taking part in could be considered as ‘binge’ drinking instead simply considering it as fun and exciting.
