When your child tells you they want (or need) to start playing rugby, it can be worrying to think that they’re going to be playing the sport just as you may have seen the pros playing on the TV.
But don’t worry – your child won’t be thrown in at the deep end with scrums, rucks and mauls (also known as “set pieces”) from day one!
In fact, if your child is starting out from as young as 4 years old rugby can seem more like a giant game of tag than a traditional game of rugby.
This is because rugby is a progressive sport, meaning that the rules get more complicated the older your child gets.
They will be taught the skills needed to keep safe as they progress through the age grades.
How does kids rugby vary from adult rugby?
Junior Rugby is not played exactly the same as senior Rugby. Youth Rugby in any country follows unique rules set by their national governing body.
These rules usually follow the suggestions of World Rugby, the sports’ top organisation.
Here are some key ways Rugby differs for children compared to the adult version of the sport:
Age-Grading:
Most countries split youth players into age groups up until age 19.
This ensures that children and young people are playing against opponents of similar ability.
Occasionally player will move up or down an age grade depending on their skill and physicality.
Gender:
Boys and girls can play together until around the age of 12, then they separate into their exclusive teams.
Until this point, they play a form of Rugby called “Minis Rugby”.
This is a non-contact form of Rugby which uses a reduced amount of players, pitch size, and game duration.
Further Info: Ask Away: Girl’s Rugby Q&A
Rugby Game Duration for kids:
The duration of matches is shorter at age grade level.
This is more appropriate for their attention spans and energy levels.
Under the age of 19, games go on no longer than 70 minutes as opposed to 80 minutes at senior level.
For very young children, the duration is much less.
For example Under 7’s will play a 10-minute half whilst U10’s play 15 minutes per half.
Smaller Rugby Fields:
The playing fields used for children’s rugby are usually smaller in size.
This allows for more manageable gameplay and reduces the intensity of running distances.
Older teenagers (from U14’s) often use full-sized pitches.
Smaller team sizes:
It is not until U14’s that teams may begin to play with 15 players.
U9’s usually play with just 7 rugby players, rising to 12 players per team by U12’s.
Continuous Participation:
Youth rugby programmes will encourage active participation from all players.
This means that coaches will cycle players in and out of games so everyone gets equal playing time.
Older teams using 15 players per team will use substitution more like a senior team.
Simplified Rugby Rules for children:
The rules of rugby are simplified at age grade level to make the game easier to understand.
For young players, the sport cares more about introducing the basic concepts of the game.
These include “invasion” (pursuing the opponent) and “evasion” (avoiding the defenders).
There is little to no use of the set piece in Rugby for ages 6-9.
When rules do include them, it is usually modified to suit the age group.
For example, age-grade rulesets sometimes use “uncontested” scrums.
This means neither team pushes in the scrum.
World Rugby advises introducing the set piece and kicking game between ages 9 and 12.
However many countries continue to change these areas to suit developing players.
At older ages, the rules change to expose players to more features of the senior game.
This allows them to specialise in team positions in the forwards or backs.
At this point, the game is played virtually the same as at the senior level.
This flyer from England Rugby explains in a lot more detail which skills are introduced at each age. (Note other nations may have slight variations)
Reduced Contact for kids playing rugby:
To prioritise player safety, there are restrictions on contact at certain age levels.
Age grade Rugby introduces young players to playing formats with little contact.
For the 6-9 age bracket, World Rugby advises that coaches use tag/touch rugby only with children.
This version restricts defenders to tagging the ball carrier with their hands. The ball carrier must stop moving and present the ball backwards for a teammate.
Young players may begin some contact drills at this age. Training at this stage focuses on safety and proper technique.
Most secondary schools with PE on the curriculum will only teach non-contact rugby in lessons, especially to those new to the sport.
Some secondary schools with experienced rugby teachers may introduce contact rugby to pupils who are capable of playing it.
These guidelines for schools in England explain the different options available in school rugby and make it clear that Touch Rugby is the preferred format for all but the most experienced player and teachers.
Sportsmanship and Inclusivity:
Coaches work hard to instil good values in players at the youth level.
The emphasis is often placed on sportsmanship, teamwork, and inclusivity instead of winning.
Chances for increased competitiveness are less frequent for very young players.
Players will begin to compete in season-long tournaments as they age and learn the game more.
It is important to take away the knowledge that whatever age your child may be when beginning Rugby, they’re skills and development will be well accommodated. This allows for maximum enjoyment as well as your peace of mind as a parent.
If you are interested in learning about the game more check out our guide to the rules of Rugby and the different forms of the game.
