>>>That same kid can slim down by running cross country, which doesn't involve knocking himself and someone else senseless.
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>Or they can avoid candy and not drink soda pop. Thing is, it doesn't seem to happen. There's a lot of good stuff in team sports that draws in even average players who might hope to score a try this season or at least take part in some wins. Compared to not a lot there for an average cross country runner.
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Who says that members of team sports other than Rugby don't emphasize fitness?
Both grandsons were on the HS swimming and soccer teams and their bodies are like spring steel.
Watch a good baseball infield in action and you'll see some of the best athletic moves ever.

You're ignoring the fact that contact sports like rugby and US football are by nature dangerous and any benefits they might offer can be easily found in other sports without the downside.

People play them because they're there. Get rid of them.