U7 | U8 | U9 | U10 | U11 | U12 | Law Index
The full 15-a-side game of rugby is too confusing for youngsters. Mini-Rugby is a simplified version, designed to introduce them gradually to the game. It lets them use their natural ability to run, chase, throw, catch and score. They do all this from the very start.
Pitch Sizes
U7 / U8 = 40 metres x 30 metres, plus 2 metres each end for in-goal area. (For 7-a-side - reduce by 5 metres each way for each player less per side)
U9 & U10 = 59 metres x 35 meters, plus 5 metres each end for in-goal area (effectively full width with touchlines as dead ball line, and from 2 metres away from try line to 10 metre line)
U11 & U12 = 59 metres x 45 meters, plus 5 metres each end for in-goal area (effectively full width with touchlines as dead ball line, and from 2 metres away from try line to halfway line
The object of the game is to score a try (five points) in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
The game is played between teams of not more than seven players.
The ball can ONLY be passed sideways or backwards.
The game is started or re-started from the centre of the field, or after a penalty, with a free pass. The starter's team must be behind the ball (i.e. nearer their own try line than the starter). Before the pass is taken, the opposing team must be 7 metres away nearer its own goal line. If the place for the free pass is given within 7 metres of the goal line, the free pass is to be taken at or behind the mark on a line through the mark at least 7 metres from the goal line.
NOTE: At the free pass the ball is held in two hands off the ground and is to be passed through the sir to a team member. The referee is to ensure that the opposition is 7 metres back before indicating that play is to commence. The receiver of the free pass must start no more than Z metres behind the passer but may be at any distance laterally across the width of the field of play. The passer must not run with the ball or dummy pass. Normal play resumes as the ball leaves the hand of the passer.
If a player running with the ball is touched with two hands below the waist by an opponent, the player must pass the ball IMMEDlATELY. Opponents must not prevent the passer from passing the ball. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition). If a player running with the ball is in the immediate act of touching the ball down for a try when touched by the opposition, a try should be awarded (otherwise the ball has to be passed).
NOTE l: Touch below waist/hip area and not above.
NOTE 2: At this level, players should be allowed some leeway, i.e. a tackled player must be allowed to pass the ball even if it is knocked out of his/her hands. Any player going to ground after a touch must be allowed to regain his/her feet and pass the ball. The referee, however, should ensure that the player must pass without undue delay and may NOT wait for support if none is there.
NOTE 3: If a player, in the immediate act of scoring a try is legally touched, a try shall be awarded, provided the ball is touched down and the player was considered by the referee to be in the act of touching down.
NOTE 4: It is helpful for the referee to indicate that a "tackle" has been made, i.e. that the player has been touched, by shouting, "tackled".
If a player, legally touched, fails to pass, the ball goes to the opposing team for a free pass re-start.
When the ball, or player carrying the ball goes into touch, the game shall be re-started with a free pass to the opponents of the team who carried or last touched the ball before it went into touch. The position of the free pass shall be 2 metres in from touch, parallel to the point where the ball or ball carrier crossed the touchline. The team not re-starting shall retire as for a free pass re-start (detailed above).
The offside line in games at this level is the ball.
NOTE: A player in front of the ball carrier of his/her own team is to be penalised for being offside unless that player is making an obvious attempt to return to an onside position (i.e. behind the ball).
A player must not hand-off or fend-off an opponent in any way. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition). {A hand-off or fend-off is defined as "any movement of the hand, arm or ball to ward off a would-be tackler"}.
NOTE: Players are recommended to carry the ball in two hands.
A player may not kick the ball. If this happens, possession goes to the opposing team for a free pass re-start at the point at which the ball was kicked.
After a try has been scored, the game re-starts from the centre with a free pass (as in 4 above) to the side, which conceded the try. The re-start shall not take place until the opponents have returned to a line 7 metres back from the centre on the side which they are defending.
In addition to the provision to Law 26, a player shall not use excessive force in tackling another player (such as pushing an opponent over) nor will a player carrying the ball deliberately barge or run into any other players. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition). Any push into touch is to be penalised and the free pass is to be taken 2 metres from the touchline, level with the place where the player went into touch.
After any stoppage not covered in the Rules, the game shall re-start with a free pass to the team who were moving forward, or if neither team were moving forward, by the team who were last in possession of the ball.
A game will be made up of two halves, each of up to ten minutes duration. During the interval, coaches should take adequate time to talk to, encourage, coach and explain the game to the players. During the game, coaches can direct and develop play in a coaching sense from on the field of play, ideally behind their teams.
A size 3 ball should be used.
At this age, a few inter-club games may take place, but certainly not more than 12 fixtures and 3 festivals in any season (one in the CB and two others).
Where clubs are obliged to combine age groups because of small numbers, U7 and U8 may play together utilising the U7 format - no child U7 or U8 may play with children U9 or over.
Where clubs have large squads, additional fixtures/festivals might be arranged provided that no player plays in more than the above.
Fixture/Triangular Fixture: The playing of Mini Rugby between teams of two or three different schools/clubs, not more than three schools / clubs being involved together on any one day.
Festival / Competition: The playing of Mini Rugby between more than three teams of different schools/clubs on a league basis, normally to establish a winner, all games taking place being part of one event.
At festivals, no player to play in more than five games.
U7/U8 number of minutes to be played
Fixture: 10 minutes each way - 1 game - 20 minutes
Triangular: 7.5 minutes each way - 2 games - 30 minutes
Festival/Tournament: 5 minutes each way (10 minutes) max. of 5 games - 50 minutes
Games should be shortened if one side is scoring too freely (i.e. no more than 30 point's difference).
The emphasis should be on enjoyment. The children should be encouraged to enjoy the physical skills of running, passing, evasion and coached according to the material available in the Start Coaching Rugby Pack.
A coaching session should last no longer than 60 minutes with no more than 20 minutes devoted to match play.
All players are advised to wear gum shields.
Coaches are advised to check studs before training sessions, games or tournaments in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
IN THIS VERSION OF THE GAME THERE IS A TOTAL EMPHASIS ON RUNNING WITH THE BALL, EVASION, RUNNING IN SUPPORT OF THE BALL CARRIER, PASSING AND RUNNING TO TOUCH THE BALL CARRIER.
THERE IS NO TACKLING - NO SCRUMMAGE - NO LINE-OUT NO KICKING - NO HAND-OFF / FEND-OFF
The object of the game is to score a try (five points) in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
The game is played between teams of not more than seven players.
The ball can ONLY be passed sideways or backwards.
The game is started or re-started from the centre of the field, or after a penalty, with a free pass. The starter's team must be behind the ball (i.e. nearer their own try line than the starter). Before the pass is taken, the opposing team must be 7 metres away nearer its own goal line. If the place for the free pass is given within 7 metres of the goal line, the free pass is to be taken at or behind the mark on a line through the mark at least 7 metres from the goal line.
NOTE: At the free pass the ball is held in two hands off the ground and is to be passed through the air to a team member. The referee is to ensure that the opposition is 7 metres back before indicating that play is to commence. The receiver of the free pass must start no more than 2 metres behind the passer but may be at any distance laterally across the width of the field of play. The passer must not run with the ball or dummy pass. Normal play resumes as the ball leaves the hand of the passer.
If a player running with the ball is touched with two hands below the waist by an opponent the player must pass the ball IMMEDlATELY. Opponents must not prevent the passer from passing the ball. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition). If a player running with the ball is in the immediate act of touching the ball down for a try when touched by the opposition, a try should be awarded (otherwise the ball has to be passed).
NOTE l: Touch below waist/hip area and not above.
NOTE 2: At this level, players should be allowed some leeway, i.e. a cackled player must be allowed to pass the ball even if it is knocked out of his/her hands. Any player going to ground after a touch must be allowed to regain his/her feet and pass the ball. The referee however, should ensure that the player must pass without undue delay and may NOT wait for support if none is there.
NOTE 3: If a player, in the immediate act of scoring a try is legally touched, a try shall be awarded, provided the ball is touched down and the player was considered by the referee to be in the act of touching down.
NOTE 4: It is helpful for the referee to indicate that a "tackle" has been made, i.e. that the player has been touched, by shouting, "tackled".
If a player, legally touched, fails to pass, the ball goes to the opposing team for a free pass re-start.
When the ball, or player carrying the ball goes into touch, the game shall be re-started with a free pass to the opponents of the team who carried or last touched the ball before it went into touch. The position of the free pass shall be 2 metres in from touch, parallel to the point where the ball or ball carrier crossed the touchline. The team not re-starting shall retire as for a free pass re-start (detailed in 4 above).
The offside line in games at this level is the ball.
NOTE: A player in front of the ball carrier of his/her own team is to be penalised for being offside unless that player is making an obvious attempt to return to an onside position (i.e. behind the ball).
A player must not hand-off or fend-off an opponent in any way. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition). {A hand-off or fend-off is defined as "any movement of the hand, arm or ball to ward off a would be tackler"}.
NOTE: Players are recommended to carry the ball in two hands.
A player may not kick the ball. If this happens, possession goes to the opposing team for a free pass re-start at the point at which the ball was kicked.
After a try has been scored, the game re-starts from the centre with a free pass (as above) to the side, which conceded the try. The re-start shall not take place until the opponents have returned to a line 7 metres back from the centre on the side which they are defending.
In addition to the provision to Law 26, a player shall not use excessive force in tackling another player (such as pushing an opponent over) nor will a player carrying the ball deliberately barge or run into any other players. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition). Any push into touch is to be penalised and the free pass is to be taken 2 metres from the touchline, level with the place where the player went into touch.
After any stoppage not covered in the Rules, the game shall re-start with a free pass to the team who were moving forward, or if neither team were moving forward, by the team who were last in possession of the ball.
A game will be made up of two halves, each of up to ten minutes duration. During the interval, coaches should take adequate time to talk to, encourage, coach and explain the game to the players.
A size 3 ball should be used.
At this age, a few inter-club games may take place, but certainly not more than 12 fixtures and 3 festivals in any season (one in the CB and two others).
Where clubs are obliged to combine age groups because of small numbers, U7 and U8 may play together utilising the U7 format - no child U7 or U8 may play with children U9 or over.
Where clubs have large squads, additional fixtures/festivals might be arranged provided that no player plays in more than the above.
Fixture/Triangular Fixture: The playing of Mini Rugby between teams of two or three different schools/clubs, not more than three schools/clubs being involved together on any one day.
Festival/Competition. The playing of Mini Rugby between more than three teams of different schools/clubs on a league basis, normally to establish a winner, all games taking place being part of one event.
At festivals, no player to play in more than five games.
U7/U8 number of minutes to be played
Fixture: 10 minutes each way - 1 game - 20 minutes
Triangular: 7.5 minutes each - 2 games - 30 minutes
Festival/Tournament: 5 minutes each way (10 minutes) max. of 5 games - 50 minutes
Games should be shortened if one side is scoring too freely (i.e. no more than 30 point's difference).
The emphasis should be on enjoyment. The children should be encouraged to enjoy the physical skills of running, passing, evasion and coached according to the material available in the Start Coaching Rugby Pack.
A coaching session should last no longer than sixty minutes with no more than twenty minutes devoted to match play.
At this age, players may play a maximum of eight fixtures and not more than three festivals in any season. The emphasis remains on providing the children with an enjoyable introduction to the skills of the game. Competition is of secondary importance.
As the end of the season approaches (but NOT before 1 °' February), the concept of the set piece play of scrummage and back line may be introduced with all players experiencing all positions. Introduce a three player uncontested scrummage.
The scrummage will be made up of one row of three players from each team. The ball is put into the scrummage as laid down in the Laws of the Game of Rugby Football Union.
The centre player of the three in the non-offending team sweeps the ball back through the legs of the player on their left with the right foot.
The players of the offending team in the scrummage must not attempt to hook the ball or push their opponents backwards.
The back line in the team not putting the ball into the scrummage must remain 7 metres behind the scrummage until normal play re-starts, with the exception of the scrum half, who must remain behind the hindmost foot of the scrummage, until normal play re- starts.
Normal play will re-start when the ball has emerged from the scrummage.
As the end of the season approaches (but NOT before 1~ February), tackling might be introduced into training sessions but not introduced to the game format until the next age group (i.e. Under 9).
TACKLING MUST BE INTRODUCED PROGRESSIVELY, USING THE STAGES DESCRIBED IN "EVEN BETTER RUGBY". (RFU Publication available from the RFU Shop).
All players are advised to wear gum shields.
Coaches are advised to check studs before training sessions, games or tournaments in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
IN THIS VERSION OF THE GAME THERE IS A TOTAL EMPHASIS ON RUNNING WTTH THE BALL, EVASION, RUNNING IN SUPPORT OF THE BALL CARRIER, PASSING AND RUNNING TO TOUCH THE BALL CARRIER.
THERE IS NO TACKLING - NO SCRUMMAGE - NO LINE-OUT NO KICKING - NO HAND-OFF / FEND-OFF
The object of the game is to score a try (five points) in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
The game is played between teams of nine players, three of whom and no more will form the scrummage, the remaining six will form the back line. Positions should be interchangeable.
The ball can ONLY be passed sideways or backwards.
The game is started or re-started from the centre of the field, or after a penalty, with a free pass. The starter's team must be behind the ball (i.e. nearer their own try line than the starter). Before the pass is taken the opposing team must be 7 metres away nearer its own goal line. If the place for the free pass is given within 7 metres of the goal line the free pass is to be taken at or behind the mark on a line through the mark at least 7 metres from the goal line.
NOTE: At the free pass the ball is held in two hands off the ground and is to be passed through the air to a team member. The referee is to ensure that the opposition is 7 metres back before indicating that play is to commence. The receiver of the free pass must start no more than 2 metres behind the passer but may be at any distance laterally across the width of the field of play. The passer must not run with the ball or dummy pass. Normal play resumes as the ball leaves the hand of the passer.
If the ball is passed forward or knocked on, an uncontested scrummage is awarded.
Any player who has the ball and is on his/her feet (except in a maul) can be tackled as laid down in the Laws of the Game. (Penalty for illegal tackle: A free pass re-start to the opposition). A player so tackled must play the ball immediately.
NOTE 1: Any tackle level with or above the armpit is to be considered a high tackle. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition).
NOTE 2: The scrag type tackle (i.e. swinging a player round by the shirt) is to be considered dangerous play and penalised accordingly.
NOTE 3: The referee should encourage tackler and tackled player to get away from the ball IMMEDIATELY so that the game can continue. Where a ruck or maul occurs, the offside line for players not in the ruck or maul is at the hindmost foot on their side of the ruck or maul. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition).
If the ball is not playable IMMEDIATELY after a tackle, an uncontested scrummage is awarded. The scrummage is awarded to the team designated under Laws 21 and 22 of the Laws of the Game.
The scrummage will be made up of one row of three players (and no more team. The team awarded the scrummage will put the ball into the scrum must be allowed to win it without contest. (Opponents cannot push or s1 ball). With these exceptions the Laws of the Game pertaining to the scrum apply. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition).
The back line of the team not putting the ball into the scrummage must remain 7 metres behind the scrummage until normal play resumes, with the exception of the scrum half, who must remain directly behind his/her own scrum until the ball
Normal play will re-start when the ball has emerged from the scrummage.
Offside in general play shall be penalised in accordance with the Laws of the Game. A player off side in general play is to be penalised for being off side unless making an obvious attempt to return to on-side position. (Penalty: A free 1 to the opposition).
When the ball, or player carrying the ball, goes into touch, the game shall b with a free pass to the opponents of the team who carried or last touched the ball before it went into touch. The position of the free pass shall be 7 met touch, parallel to the point where the ball or carrier crossed the touchline not re-starting shall retire as for a free pass re-start in 4 above).
After a try has been scored, the game re-starts from the centre with a free 9.4 above). The re-start shall not take place until the opponents have return 7 metres back from the centre on the side which they are defending.
A player must not hand-off or fend-off an opponent in any way. (Penalty: re-start to the opposition). {A hand-off or fend-off is defined as "any move hand, arm or ball to ward off a would be tackler"}.
NOTE: Players are recommended to carry the ball in two hands.
A player may not kick the ball. If this happens, possession goes to the opposing team for a free pass re-start at the point at which the ball was kicked.
Following an infringement for off side, high or late tackle, obstruction, hand-off / fend-off, kicking, scrum feeding, striking for the ball and pushing in the scrummage a free pass re-start ensues. The offending team must retire 7 metres from 1 re-start, towards their own goal line.
After any stoppage not covered in the Rules, the game shall re-start with a to the team moving forward, or, if neither team were moving forward, b who were in possession of the ball.
A game will be made up of two halves, each of not more than fifteen minutes duration. During the interval, coaches should take adequate time to talk to, encourage, coach and explain the game to the players.
A size 3 ball should be used.
TACKLING MUST BE INTRODUCED PROGRESSIVELY, USING THE STAGES DESCRIBED IN "EVEN BETTER RUGBY". (RFU Publication available from the RFU Shop)
The formation of the scrummage must be introduced in a progressive way following the stages described in "Even Better Rugby" with great emphasis placed on body position, foot placement, binding, putting the ball into the scrummage and hooking techniques.
At this age, players may play a maximum of twelve fixtures and not more than three festivals in any season (one in the CB and two others). The emphasis remains on providing the children with an enjoyable introduction to the skills of the game. Competition is of secondary importance.
Where clubs are obliged to combine age groups because of small numbers, U9's and U10's may play together utilising the U9 format. U9's should not play with U' 11 s in any circumstances.
Where clubs have large squads, additional fixtures/festivals might be arranged provided that no player plays in more than the above.
Fixture/Triangular Fixture: The playing of Mini Rugby between teams of two or three different schools/clubs, not more than three schools/clubs being involved together on any one day.
Festival/Competition: The playing of Mini Rugby between more than three teams of different schools/clubs on a league basis, normally to establish a winner, all games taking place being part of one event.
At festivals, no player to play in more than five games.
U9/I110 number of minutes to be played
Fixture: 15 minutes each way - 1 game - 30 minutes
Triangular: 10 minutes each way - 2 games - 40 minutes
Festival/Tournament: 7 minutes each way (14 minutes) max. of 5 games - 70 minutes.
Games should be shortened if one side is scoring too freely (i.e. no more than 30 point's difference).
The emphasis should be on enjoyment. The children should be encouraged to enjoy the physical side of running, passing, evasion and coached according to the material available in the Start Coaching Rugby Pack.
A coaching session should last no longer than sixty minutes with no more than twenty minutes devoted to match play.
On match days against outside opposition, a coaching session should normally precede the match. Matches should be used as an extension of the coaching session, with the emphasis being on the quality of performance rather than the result.
All players are advised to wear gum shields.
Coaches are advised to check studs before training sessions, games or tournaments in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
IN THIS VERSION OF THE GAME THERE IS NO LINE-OUT - NO KICKING - NO HAND-OFF / FEND OFF
The object of the game is to score a try (five points) in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
The game is played between teams of nine players, three of whom and no more will form the scrummage, the remaining six will form the back line. Positions should be interchangeable.
The ball can ONLY be passed backwards or sideways.
The game is started or re-started from the centre of the field, or after a penalty, with a free pass. The starter's team must be behind the ball (i.e. nearer their own try line than the starter). Before the pass is taken, the opposing team must be 7 metres away nearer its own goal line. If the place for the free pass is given within 7 metres of the goal line, the free pass is to be taken at or behind the mark on a line through the mark at least 7 metres from the goal line.
NOTE: At the free pass the ball is held in two hands off the ground and is to be passed through the air to a team member. The referee is to ensure that the opposition is 7 metres back before indicating that play is to commence. The receiver of the free pass must start no more than 2 metres behind the passer but may be at any distance laterally across the width of the field of play. The passer must not run with the ball or dummy pass. Normal play resumes as the ball leaves the hand of the passer.
The ball can ONLY be passed backwards or sideways.
If the ball is passed forward or knocked on, a contested scrummage is awarded. At this age group the scrummage can be contested.
Any player who has the ball and is on his/her feet (except in a maul) can be tackled as laid down in the Laws of the Game. (Penalty for illegal tackle: A free pass re-start to the opposition). A player so tackled must play the ball immediately.
NOTE 1: Any tackle level with or above the armpit is to be considered a high tackle. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition).
NOTE 2: The scrag type tackle (i.e. swinging a player round by the shirt) is to be considered dangerous play and penalised accordingly.
NOTE 3: The referee should encourage tackler and tackled player to get away from the ball IMMEDIATELY so that the game can continue. Where a ruck or maul occurs, the offside line for players not in the ruck or maul is at the hindmost foot on their side of the ruck or maul. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition).
If the ball is not playable IMMEDIATELY after a tackle, a contested scrummage is awarded. The scrummage is awarded to the team designated under Laws 21 and 22 of the Laws of the Game.
The scrummage will be made up of one row of three players (and no more) from each team. The team awarded the scrummage will put the ball in. All the Laws of the Game pertaining to the under 19 scrummage, including off-side will apply except that:
the scrum-half of the team not putting in the ball must remain directly behind his/her own scrum until normal play resumes,
the back line of the team not putting the ball into the scrummage must remain 7 metres behind the scrummage until normal play resumes. Normal play will resume when the ball has emerged from the scrummage. In the event of a strike against the head, the scrum half who has pu1 the ball into the scrummage must not follow the ball until it is out of the scrummage. Under no circumstances is (a) the scrum to be pushed more than 1.5 metres. (Penalty: A free pass against the side which pushed the scrum at the original spot) or (b) wheeled more than 45 degrees. (Penalty: The scrummage will be reformed).
If the ball or player carrying the ball goes out of play, a contested lineout at the point at which the ball or players crossed the touchline will take place. A quick throw in is not permitted.
The line-out will be made up of no more than two players from each team plus the player throwing the ball in and an immediate opponent who must stand within the 2 metre area and one player from either side in a position to receive the ball (i.e. scrum-half). Both the thrower in and his/her immediate opponent are able to take an active role in the game as soon as the ball has been touched by one of the players contesting the lineout.
The lineout will extend from 2 to 7 metres from the touchline.
The opponents of the team who carried or last touched the ball before it went into touch shall throw the ball in.
The ball must be thrown INTO the line out (i.e. between 2 and 7 metres at U10)
Lifting/supporting is prohibited at this level (i.e. a player may not bind to a jumper until he/she returns to the ground).
The off side line for all players not participating in the line-out will be 7 metres back from the line of touch parallel to the goal-line and they must remain behind that off side line until the line-out has ended.
NOTE: See Laws of the Game for when lineout ends.
Offside in general play shall be penalised in accordance with the Laws of the Game. A player off side in general play is to be penalised for being off side unless that player is making an obvious attempt to return to on-side position. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition).
A player must not hand-off or fend-off an opponent in any way. (Penalty: A free pass re-start to the opposition). {A hand-off or fend-off is defined as "any movement of the hand, arm or ball to ward off a would-be tackler"}.
After a try has been scored, the game re-starts from the centre with a free pass (as in 4 above). The re-start shall not take place until the opponents have returned to a line 7 metres back from the centre on the side which they are defending.
A player may not kick the ball. If this happens, possession goes to the opposing team for a free pass re-start at the point at which the ball was kicked.
Following an infringement for: off side, high or late tackle obstruction hand-off/fend-off kicking, crooked scrum feed, a free pass re-start ensues as in 4 above.
After any stoppage not covered in the Rules, the game shall re-start with a scrummage to the team moving forward, or, if neither team were moving forward, by the team who were last in possession of the ball.
A game will be made up of two halves, each of not more than fifteen minutes duration. During the interval, coaches should take adequate time to talk to, encourage, coach and explain the game to the players.
A size 4 ball should be used.
TACKLING MUST BE INTRODUCED PROGRESSIVELY, USING THE STAGES DESCRIBED IN "EVEN BETTER RUGBY". (RFU Publication available from the RFU Shop).
The formation of the scrummage must be introduced in a progressive way following the stages described in "Even Better Rugby" with great emphasis placed on body position, foot placement, binding, putting the ball into the scrummage and hooking techniques.
Lineout must be introduced following the progressions described in "Even Better Rugby" with great emphasis placed on body positions, support for and protection of the catcher.
At this age, players may play a maximum of twelve fixtures and not more than three festivals in any season (one in the CB and two others). The emphasis remains on providing the children with an enjoyable introduction to the skills of the game. Competition is of secondary importance.
Where clubs are obliged to combine age groups because of sma7l numbers, U'9s and U10's may play together utilising the U10 Mini format. No child U10 may play with children U12 or over.
Where clubs have large squads, additional fixtures/festivals might be arranged provided that no player plays in more than the above.
Fixture/Triangular Fixture: The playing of Mini Rugby between teams of two or three different schools/clubs, not more than three schools/clubs_ being involved together on any one day.
Festival / Competition. The playing of Mini Rugby between more than three teams of different schools/clubs on a league basis, normally to establish a winner, alt games taking place being part of one event.
At festivals, no player to play in more than five games.
U9/U10 number of minutes to be played
Fixture: 15 minutes each way - 1 game - 30 minutes
Triangular: 10 minutes each way - 2 games - 40 minutes
Festival / Tournament 7 minutes each way (14 minutes) max. of 5 games - 70 minutes
Games should be shortened if one side is scoring too freely (i.e. no more than 30 point's difference).
The emphasis should be on enjoyment. The children should be encouraged to enjoy the physical side of running, passing, evasion and coached according to the material available in the Start Coaching Rugby Pack.
A coaching session should last no longer than sixty minutes with no more than twenty minutes devoted to match play.
On match days against outside opposition, a coaching session should normally precede the match. Matches should be used as an extension of the coaching session, with the emphasis being on the quality of performance rather than the result.
All players are advised to wear gum shields.
Coaches are advised to check studs before training sessions, games or tournaments in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
IN THIS VERSION OF THE GAME THERE IS: NO KICKING - NO HAND-OFF / FEND OFF
The object of the game is to score a try (five points) in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
Teams will be made up of twelve players; five of whom and no more will be forwards with the remaining seven forming the back line.
At this age, the game will start with a KICK-OFF from the centre of the field. The kicker's team must be behind the ball until it has been kicked and the receiving team must be at least 7 metres back from the ball.
NOTE: See Laws of the Game if the ball is kicked off directly into touch and in-goal.
In all other situations, the Laws of the Game of Rugby Union Football apply with the following exceptions
SCRUMMAGE
The locks forming the second row must bind to each other with their inside arm and with their outside arm around the hips of the front row (props).
Under no circumstances is (a) the scrum to be pushed more than 1.5 metres. (Penalty: A free kick against the side which pushed the scrum at the original spot) or (b) wheeled more than 45 degrees. (Penalty: The scrummage will be reformed).
The scrum half not putting the ball in must remain directly behind his/her own scrum until the ball has emerged from the scrummage. In the event of a strike against the head the scrum half who has put the ball into the scrummage must not follow the ball until it is out.
LINE-OUT
The line-out will be made up of two, three or four players from each side plus the player throwing the ball in and the latter's immediate opponent who must stand within the 2 metre area and one player from either side in a position to receive the ball (i.e. scrum-half). Both the thrower-in and his/her immediate opponent are able to take an active role in the game as soon as the ball has been touched by one of the players contesting the lineout. A quick throw in is NOT permitted.
The lineout will extend from between 2 - 10 metres from the touchline.
The ball must be thrown INTO the line out (i.e. between 2 and 10 metres) and not beyond it.
Lifting and supporting is prohibited at this level (i.e. a player may not bind to a jumper until he/she returns to the ground).
The offside line for all players not participating in the lineout (all players other than those described under Rule 5 (a) above) will be 7 metres back from the line of touch parallel to the goal line and they must remain behind that offside line until the lineout has ended.
NOTE: See Laws of the Game for when lineout ends.
All offside lines and retiring distances by the opposition in relation to those offside lines shall be 7 metres.
Any player who has the ball and is on his/her feet (except in a maul) can be tackled as laid down in the Laws of the Game. (Penalty for illegal tackle: A penalty kick). A player so tackled must play the ball immediately.
NOTE 1: Any tackle level with or above the armpit is to be considered a high tackle. (Penalty: Penalty kick).
NOTE 2: The scrag type tackle (i.e. swinging a player round by the shirt) is to be considered dangerous play and penalised accordingly.
NOTE 3: The referee should encourage tackler and tackled player to get away from the ball IMMEDIATELY so that the game can continue. Where a ruck or maul occurs, the offside line for players not in the ruck or maul is at the hindmost foot on their side of the ruck or maul. (Penalty: A penalty kick).
At all penalty kicks, the offending team must retire 7 metres towards their own goal line from the place where the penalty kick is awarded.
If the ball is not playable IMMEDIATELY after a tackle, a scrummage is awarded. The scrummage is awarded to the team designated under Laws 21 and 22 of the Laws of the Game.
A player must not hand-off or fend-off an opponent in any way. (Penalty: A penalty kick to the opposition). {A hand-off or fend-off is defined as "any movement of the hand, arm or ball to ward off a would-be tackler"}.
NOTE: Players are recommended to carry the ball in two hands.
All the Laws of the Game pertaining to kicking in open play will apply, except that players may not kick the ball other than out of their hands. Fly hacking is not permitted (Penalty: A penalty kick).
After a try has been scored the team can attempt to covert the try into a goal. The kick at goal will take place from anywhere in front of the posts.
After a try or goal has been scored, the game will re-start with a drop kick.
When an infringement occurs as per the Laws of the Game, a penalty or free kick will be awarded. The opposition must retire at least 7 metres back towards their own goal line from the place where the kick is awarded.
After any stoppage not covered in the Rules, the game shall re-start with a scrummage to the team who were moving forward, or, if neither team were moving forward, by the team who were last in possession of the ball.
A game will be made up of two equal halves, each of not more than twenty minutes. During the interval, coaches should take adequate time to talk to, encourage, coach and explain the game to players.
A size 4 ball should be used
TACKLING MUST BE INTRODUCED PROGRESSIVELY, USING THE STAGES DESCRIBED IN "EVEN BETTER RUGBY". (RFU Publication available from the RFU Shop)
The formation of the scrummage must be introduced in a progressive way following the stages described in "Even Better Rugby" with great emphasis placed on body position, foot placement, binding, putting the ball into the scrummage and hooking techniques.
In order to give a balance between coaching and playing, fixtures should be arranged to allow at least one Sunday coaching/training session between matches. At this age, players may play a maximum of fourteen fixtures and not more than three festivals in any season (one in the CB and two others). The emphasis remains on providing the children with an enjoyable introduction to the skills of the game. Competition is of secondary importance.
If there are insufficient players to play Midi Rugby (12-a-side), they should play Mini Rugby (9-a-side) still in their Under 11 age group. Where clubs are obliged because of small numbers to combine age groups, U11's and Ul2's may play together utilising the U11 game format. Where clubs have large squads, additional fixtures / festivals might be arranged provided that no player plays in more than the above.
Fixture / Triangular Fixture: The playing of Mini Rugby between teams of two or three different schools/clubs, not more than three schools/clubs being involved together on any one day.
Festival / Competition. The playing of Mini Rugby between more than three teams of different schools/clubs on a league basis, normally to establish a winner, all games taking place being part of one event.
At festivals, no player plays in more than five games.
Ull/U12 number of minutes to be played
Fixture: 20 minutes each way - 1 game - 40 minutes
Triangular: 15 minutes each way - 2 games - 60 minutes
Festival / Tournament: 7 minutes each way (14 minutes) maximum of 5 games - 70 minutes
Games should be shortened if one side is scoring too freely (i.e. no more than 30 point's difference).
The emphasis should be on enjoyment. The children should be encouraged to enjoy the physical side of running, passing, evasion and coached according to the material available in the Start Coaching Rugby Pack.
A practical coaching session that includes talks and videos etc., should last no longer than two hours including a maximum of forty minutes devoted to match play.
On match days against outside opposition; a coaching session should normally precede the match. Matches should be used as an extension of the coaching session, with the emphasis being on the quality of performance rather than the result.
All players are advised to wear gum shields.
Coaches are advised to check studs before training sessions, games or tournaments in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
IN THIS VERSION OF THE GAME THERE IS: NO HAND-OFF / FEND OFF
The object of the game is to score a try (five points) in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
Teams will be made up of twelve players; five and no more will be forwards with the remaining seven forming the back line.
At this age, the game will start with a KICK-OFF from the centre of the field. The kicker's team must be behind the ball until it has been kicked and the receiving team must be at least 7 metres back from the ball.
NOTE: See Laws of the Game if the ball is kicked off directly into touch and in-goal.
In all other situations, the Laws of the Game of Rugby Union Football apply with the following exceptions:
SCRUMMAGE
The locks forming the second row must bind to each other with their inside arm and with their outside arm around the hips of the front row (props).
Under no circumstances is (a) the scrum to be pushed more than 1.5 metres. (Penalty: A free kick against the side which pushed the scrum at the original spot) or (b) wheeled more than 45 degrees. (Penalty: The scrummage will be reformed).
The scrum half not putting the ball in must remain directly behind his/her own scrum until the ball has emerged from the scrummage. In the event of a strike against the head the scrum half who has put the ball into the scrummage must not follow the ball until it is out.
LINE-OUT
The line-out will be made up of two, three or four players from each side plus the player throwing the ball in and the latter's immediate opponent who must stand within the 2 metre area and one player from either side in a position to receive the ball (i.e. scrum-half). Both the thrower-in and his/her immediate opponent are able to take an active role in the game as soon as the ball has been touched by one of the players contesting the' lineout. A quick throw in is NOW permitted.
The lineout will extend from between 2 - 10 metres from the touchline.
The ball must be thrown INTO the line out (i.e. between 2 and 10 metres) and not beyond it.
Lifting and supporting is prohibited at this level (i.e. a player may not bind to a jumper until he/she returns to the ground).
The offside line for all players not participating in the lineout (all players other than those described under Rule 12.5 (a) above) will be 7 metres back from the line of touch parallel to the goal line and they must remain behind that offside line until the lineout has ended.
NOTE: See Laws of the Game for when lineout ends.
All offside lines and retiring distances by the opposition in relation to those offside lines shall be 7 metres.
Any player who has the ball and is on his/her feet (except in a maul) can be tackled as laid down in the Laws of the Game. (Penalty for illegal tackle: A penalty kick). A player so tackled must play the ball immediately.
NOTE l: Any tackle level with or above the armpit is to be considered a high tackle. (Penalty: A penalty kick).
NOTE 2: The scrag type tackle (i.e. of swinging a player round by the shirt) is to be considered dangerous play and penalised accordingly.
NOTE 3: The referee should encourage tackler and tackled player to get away from the ball IMMEDIATELY so that the game can continue. Where a ruck or maul occurs, the offside line for players not in the ruck or maul is at the hindmost foot on their side of the ruck or maul. (Penalty: A penalty kick).
At all penalty kicks, the offending team must retire 7 metres towards their own goal line from the place where the penalty kick is awarded.
If the ball is not playable IMMEDIATELY after a tackle, a scrummage is awarded. The scrummage is awarded to the team designated under Laws 21 and 22 of the Laws of the Game.
A player must not hand-off or fend-off an opponent in any way. (Penalty: A penalty kick to the opposition). {A hand-off or fend-off is defined as "any movement of the hand, arm or ball to ward off a would-be tackler"}.
NOTE: Players are recommended to carry the ball in two hands.
All the Laws of the Game pertaining to kicking in open play will apply, except that players may not kick the ball other than out of their hands. Fly hacking is not permitted (Penalty: A penalty kick).
After a try has been scored, the team can attempt to convert the try into a goal. The kick at goal will take place from anywhere in front of the posts.
After a try or goal has been scored, the game will re-start with a drop kick.
When an infringement occurs as per the Laws of the Game, a penalty or free kick will be awarded. The opposition must retire at least 7 metres back towards their own goal line from the place where the kick is awarded.
After any stoppage not covered in the Rules, the game shall re-start with a scrummage to the team who were moving forward, or, if neither team were moving forward, by the team who were last in possession of the ball.
A game will be made up of two equal halves, each of not more than twenty minutes. During the interval, coaches should take adequate time to talk to, encourage, coach and explain the game to players.
A size 4 ball should be used
TACKLING MUST BE INTRODUCED PROGRESSIVELY, USING THE STAGES DESCRIBED IN °'EVEN BETTER RUGBY". (RFU Publication available from the RFU Shop)
The formation of the scrummage must be introduced in a progressive way following the stages described in "Even Better Rugby" with great emphasis placed on body position, foot placement, binding, putting the ball into the scrummage and hooking techniques.
In order to give a balance between coaching and playing, fixtures should be arranged to allow at least one Sunday coaching/training session between matches. At this age, players may play a maximum of fourteen fixtures and not more than three festivals in any season (one in the CB and two others). The emphasis remains on providing the children with an enjoyable introduction to the skills of the game. Competition is of secondary importance.
If there are insufficient players to play Midi Rugby (12-a-side), they should play Mini Rugby (9-a-side) still in their Under 12 age group. Where clubs are obliged because of small numbers to combine age groups, U11's and U12's may play together utilising the U11 game format. Where clubs have large squads, additional fixtures/festivals might be arranged provided that no player plays in more than the above.
Fixture / Triangular Fixture: The playing of Mini Rugby between teams of two or three different schools/clubs, not more than three schools/clubs, being involved together on any one day.
Festival / Competition: The playing of Mini Rugby between more than three teams of different schools/clubs on a league basis, normally to establish a winner, all games taking place being part of one event.
At festivals, no player plays in more than five games.
U11/U12 number of minutes to be played
Fixture: 20 minutes each way - 1 game - 40 minutes
Triangular: 15 minutes each way - 2 games - 60 minutes
Festival/Tournament: 7 minutes each way (14 minutes) maximum of 5 games - 70 minutes
Games should be shortened if one side is scoring too freely (i.e. no more than 30 point's difference).
The emphasis should be on enjoyment. The children should be encouraged to enjoy the physical side of running, passing, evasion and coached according to the material available in the Start Coaching Rugby Pack.
A practical coaching session that includes talks and videos etc., should last no longer than two hours including a maximum of forty minutes devoted to match play.
On match days against outside opposition, a coaching session should normally precede the match. Matches should be used as an extension of the coaching session, with the emphasis being on the quality of performance rather than the result.
All players are advised to wear gum shields.
Coaches are advised to check studs before training sessions, games or tournaments in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
IN THIS VERSION OF THE GAME THERE IS: NO HAND-OFF / FEND OFF