AGE GROUP GAME RULES

UNDER 7s AND UNDER 8s RULES OF PLAY (Mini Tag)

Players and match officials must ensure that the following Rules of Play and RFU Regulation 15 www.rfu.com/thegame/regulations are observed when playing at Under 7 and Under 8.  The below Rules shall apply to both Under 7s and Under 8s Mini Tag Rugby unless specifically stated otherwise.

Club Rugby:        As of 1 September 2013, the Under 7s and Under 8s Rules of Play set out below are mandatory and replace the previous Under 7s and Under 8s Rules of Play in their entirety in respect of all club rugby.

School Rugby:    The Under 7s and Under 8s Rules of Play set out below are discretionary only in school rugby but the RFU will continue to work with IAPS and the ERSFU with a view to eventually converge schools’ Rules of Play with those of club rugby.  The previous Rules of Play that can still be played by schools can be found at www.rfu.com/thegame/regulations.

Any terms defined in these Rules shall have the meanings set out in the IRB Laws of the Game.

The key elements of the Under 7s and Under 8s Rules of Play are:

UNDER 7s

·           Team numbers: 3 or 4-a-side

·           Maximum pitch size: 20 metres x 12 metres

·           Ball Size: 3

·           Scoring: Play can continue from a knock-on

·           No tackling

·           No kicking, scrums or lineouts

UNDER 8s

·           Team numbers: 5 or 6-a-side

·           Pitch size: 45 metres x 22 metres

·           Ball Size: 3

·           Scoring: Players permitted to go to ground to score

·           No tackling

·           No kicking, scrums or lineouts

1.      General:

a)            The object of the game is to score a try  by placing the ball with a downward pressure on or behind the opponents’ goal line.  A penalty try may be awarded if a try would probably have been scored but for foul play by the defending team.

b)            For safety reasons, where Mini Tag Rugby is played indoors or in restricted areas, a try can be scored by the ball carrier crossing the vertical plane of the goal line without grounding the ball.  This allows players to have their head up and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

c)            The sanction for all infringements is initially a free pass (see Rule 5).

d)            FOR UNDER 7s ONLY:  For the sake of safety, the ball carrier must remain on their feet at all times and they are not allowed to score a try by diving over the goal line.  If a player grounds the ball while on their knees, the try is allowed but, afterwards, all players may be reminded that they must stay on their feet.  A player may not be prevented from grounding the ball by any physical contact (including placing a hand between the ball and the ground).

2.      Teams:

                a)   FOR UNDER 7s ONLY:  Under 7s Mini Tag Rugby is played between teams of equal numbers of players, each team containing three or four players  on the pitch at any one time.

                b)  FOR UNDER 8s ONLY:  Under 8s Mini Tag Rugby is played between teams of equal numbers of players, each team containing five or six players on the pitch at any one time.

c)            Rolling substitutions is permitted and substituted players can be re-used at any time.  Substitutions can only take place when the ball is dead and always with the referee’s knowledge.

d)            Coaches are not permitted to be on pitch when the game is in play and the referee is encouraged to advise and guide the teams and players.

3.      Pitch Size:

                a)   FOR UNDER 7s ONLY:  The maximum pitch size for Under 7s is 20 metres by 12 metres, plus 5 metres for each in-goal area.

                b)  FOR UNDER 8s ONLY:  The maximum pitch size for Under 8s is 45 metres by 22 metres, plus 5 metres for each in-goal area.

                c)   Reduced pitch sizes are acceptable provided this is agreed between the referee and coaches, and the smaller pitches do not materially increase the risk of injury to players.

d)            Adjacent pitches should be no closer than 5 metres.

4.      Passing:

                a)   The ball can only be passed sideways or backwards (but not forwards) through the air and cannot be handed to another player.

                b)  FOR UNDER 7s ONLY:  If the ball is handed to another player or passed forward then a free pass is awarded to the non-offending team, unless advantage occurs to the non-offending team.  If the ball is accidentally knocked forwards towards the opponents’ dead ball line this does not constitute an offence and play can continue.

c)            FOR UNDER 8s ONLY:  If the ball is handed to another player or passed or knocked forwards (towards the opponents’ goal line) then a free pass is awarded to the non-offending team, unless advantage occurs to the non-offending team.

d)            In order to keep the game flowing, referees may play advantage wherever possible.

5.      Free Passes:

a)            The sanction for all infringements is initially a free pass.

b)            A free pass is used:               

i.         To start the match at the beginning of each half from the centre of the pitch

ii.       From the side of the pitch when the ball or ball carrier goes into touch at the point where the ball or ball carrier went out of play 

iii.      From where the referee makes a mark when an infringement has taken place

iv.     After a try is scored, to restart the match by the non-scoring team from the centre of the pitch

v.       If the ball is pulled from the ball carrier’s grasp.

c)            At a free pass, the player must start with the ball in both hands and, when instructed by the referee who will call “Play”, pass the ball backwards through the air to a member of their team.  For safety reasons, no player may run until the pass is made.  The player taking the free pass must pass the ball when the referee calls “Play”.

d)            FOR UNDER 7s ONLY:

i.         At a free pass, the opposition must be 3 metres back from the mark.  They cannot start moving forward until the ball leaves the hands of the passer.

ii.       If an infringement takes place or the ball goes into touch over the goal line or within 3 metres of the goal line, then the free pass must be awarded to the non-offending team 3 metres from the goal line.  This gives more space for both attacking and defending teams to play in.

e)            FOR UNDER 8s ONLY:

i.         At a free pass, the opposition must be 7 metres back from the mark.  They cannot start moving forward until the ball leaves the hands of the passer.

ii.       If an infringement takes place or the ball goes into touch over the goal line or within 7 metres of the goal line, then the free pass must be awarded to the non-offending side 7 metres from the goal line.  This gives more space for both attacking and defending teams to play in.

6.      The Tag:

                a)   All players must wear a tag belt around their waist with two tags attached to it by Velcro positioned over each hip.  Tag belts are to be securely fastened and any excess belt is to be tucked away so that this cannot be pulled by mistake.  Tag belts must be worn outside of shirts and not obscured in any way.  Referees must be watchful for tags being wrapped around the belt preventing them from being pulled off.

                b)  The standard dimensions for a tag are 38cms in length by 5cms in width although slight variations of a few millimetres are permitted.  They should be made of flexible plastic or plastic/canvas material.  Tags are generally provided in red, blue, green and yellow and must sufficiently stand out against the player’s strip.  The tags must not be the same colour as the players’ shorts or shirts.  Tags must be positioned on the side of the hips (not at the front or back).

c)            A “Tag” is the removal of one or two tags from the ball carrier’s belt.  Only the ball carrier can be tagged.  The ball carrier can run and dodge potential taggers but cannot fend them off using their hands or the ball and cannot guard or shield their tags in any way.  The ball cannot be pulled out of the ball carrier’s hands at any time.

d)            If a player does not have two tags on their belt, one on each hip, they will be penalised if they become a ball carrier or if they tag an opponent and a free pass will be awarded to the non-offending team at the place of infringement (i.e. where the infringement was noticed).

         ACTIONS BY THE BALL CARRIER:

                e)  When the ball carrier is tagged the ball must be passed to a team mate within 3 seconds, this includes stopping time.  The ball carrier must attempt to stop as soon as possible; within approximately 3 strides, but the ball can be passed in the act of stopping.  If the pass takes longer than 3 seconds or the player takes more than approximately 3 strides they must be penalised and a free pass awarded to the non-offending team at the place where the tag occurred.

                f)   After the ball has been passed, the player must go to the tagger, retrieve their tag and place it back on their belt before re-joining play.  If the player continues to play and influences the game without collecting their tag, they must be penalised and a free pass awarded to the non-offending team at the place of infringement (i.e. the point at which that player had influence).

                g)   Players are however only allowed one step to score a try after being tagged.

                h)  If the ball carrier is tagged whilst standing inside the in-goal area they must ground the ball immediately in order to score.  Referees may help this part of the game along by advising the ball carrier “Touch the ball down and I’ll award the try”, or similar.

i)             FOR UNDER 7s ONLY:  If the ball carrier dives to ground to score a try it will be disallowed and a free pass will be awarded to the defending team 3 metres out from the goal line.

         ACTIONS BY THE TAGGER:

                j)    When a tag is made, the tagger must stop running, hold the tag above their head and shout, “Tag”.  At this stage the referee must shout, “Tag – Pass”.

                k)   If the ball carrier stops running within 1 metre of the tagger, the tagger must move back towards their own goal line, at least 1 metre, to allow room for the ball to be passed.  If the tagger fails to retire at least 1 metre before re-joining the game, they are to be considered offside and a free pass will be awarded to the non-offending team at the place of infringement (i.e. where the infringement was noticed).

                l)    Once the ball has been passed, the tagger must hand back the tag to the player and cannot re-join the match until this has been done.  If a tagger continues to play and influences the match with an opponent’s tag in their hand, or throws it to the floor, they must be penalised and a free pass awarded to the non-offendingteam at the place of infringement.

                m) FOR UNDER 8s ONLY:

i.         To reward good defence and to promote the ball carrier’s  team keeping the ball alive by passing the ball before being tagged, the team in possession of a ball will only be allowed to be tagged a maximum of 6 times before scoring a try.  At the 7th tag, the referee will stop the game and give the ball to the other team by awarding a free pass at the point that the tag took place.  If the 7th tag takes place one step from the goal line and the ball is grounded, the try will be disallowed and the opposition will be given the ball for a free pass 7 metres out from the goal line, in line with the point the goal line was crossed.

ii.       Coaches of the teams may agree to reduce the maximum number of allowable tags to provide more of a challenge to their players, both in attack and defence.  If coaches cannot agree then the 7th tag ruling must be enforced.                 

7.      Offside:

Offside only occurs at the time of the tag where the offside line is through the centre of the ball except for the tagger for whom it is 1 metre further back.  When a tag is made, all the other players from the tagger’s team must attempt to retire towards their own goal line until they are behind the ball.  If a player, in an offside position, intercepts, prevents or slows down a pass from the tagged player to a team mate, a free pass will be awarded to the non-offending team. A player can, however, run from an onside position to intercept a floated pass before it reaches the intended receiver.

8.      Ball on the Ground:

         a)            Players of Mini Tag Rugby must be encouraged to stay on their feet, with the ball in hand.  If the ball goes to ground, players can pick it up, run and pass but they must not dive to the floor to recover the ball.

         b)            If the ball is passed other than forward and goes to ground, play will continue and either team may pick up the ball.  If the passed ball rolls into touch a free pass will commence from the touchline to the non-passing team.

         c)            FOR UNDER 7s ONLY:

i.         If the ball is passed forward, a free pass is awarded to the non-offending team unless advantage occurs to the non-offending team.

ii.       If the ball is accidentally knocked forwards towards the opponents’ goal line this does not constitute an offence and play can continue.

iii.      If the player falls to the ground with the ball then a free pass will be awarded to the non-offending team.

         d)            FOR UNDER 8s ONLY:

i.         If the ball is passed or knocked forward (other than as set out in (d)(ii) below), a free pass is awarded to the non-offending team  unless advantage occurs to the non-offending team.

ii.       Where the ball is on the ground over the goal line:

·         If the team defending the goal line have dropped the ball over the goal line, and their opponents have fallen on it or touched it down a try shall be awarded to the ball carrier’s team.

·         If the team defending the goal line have dropped the ball over the goal line, and then fallen on it or touched it down a free pass shall be awarded to the ball carrier’s team 7 metres from the goal line.

·         If the team attacking the goal line have dropped the ball forward over the goal line, and there is no advantage to their opponents, a free pass shall be awarded to the defending team 7 metres from the goal line.

·         If the team attacking the goal line have dropped the ball backwards over the goal line and then touched it down or fallen on it a try can be awarded.

·         If the team attacking the goal line have dropped the ball backwards over the goal line and their opponents touch the ball down or fall on it, a free pass shall be awarded to the defending team 7 metres out from the goal line.

9.      Prohibited Play

In Mini Tag Rugby, there is a total emphasis on running with the ball, evasion, running in support of the ball carrier, passing and running to tag the ball carrier.  In Mini Tag Rugby the following are not permitted:

a)      no tackling or contact: The only contact allowed between the two teams is the removal of a tag from the belt of the ball carrier.  Any other type of contact on the ball carrier, such as shirt pulling, running in front of or barging the ball carrier, forcing the ball carrier into touch, etc must be penalised with a free pass and the players concerned reminded of the rules;

b)      no kicking of any kind

c)       no hand off or fend off (a hand off being the placing of an open palmed hand by the ball carrier against an opponent’s face or body while a fend off is an outstretched arm by the ball carrier towards an opponent to discourage that person making a tag);

d)      the ball carrier or a potential tagger must not deliberately make contact with an opponent. If such contact is made the game must be stopped, the offender spoken to, reminded of the non-contact rules of tag and a free pass awarded to the non-offending team; and

e)      the ball must not be pulled from the ball carrier’s grasp. 

UNDER 9s RULES OF PLAY (Transitional Contact)

Players and match officials must ensure that the following Rules of Play and RFU Regulation 15 www.rfu.com/thegame/regulations are observed when playing rugby at Under 9.

Club Rugby:        As of 1 September 2013, the Under 9s Rules of Play set out below are mandatory and replace the previous Under 9s Rules of Play in their entirety in respect of all club rugby.

School Rugby:    The Under 9s Rules of Play set out below are discretionary only in school rugby but the RFU will continue to work with IAPS and the ERSFU with a view to eventually converge the schools’ Rules of Play with those of club rugby.  The previous Rules of Play that can still be played by schools can be found at www.rfu.com/thegame/regulations.

Any terms defined in these Rules shall have the meanings set out in the IRB Laws of the Game.

The key elements of the Under 9s Rules of Play are:

·           Team numbers: 6 or 7-a-side

·           Maximum pitch size: 60 metres x 30 metres

·           Ball Size: 3

·           Introduction of the tackle only but no rucks, mauls, lineouts or scrums

1.      General:

The object of the game is to score a try by placing the ball with a downward pressure on or behind the opponents’ goal line.  A penalty try will be awarded if a try would probably have been scored but for foul play by the defending team.

2.      Teams:

                a)   Under 9 Rugby is played between teams of equal numbers of players, containing six or seven players on the pitch at any one time.

                b)  Rolling substitutions is permitted and substituted players can be re-used at any time.  Substitutions can only take place when the ball is dead and always with the referee’s knowledge.

3.      Pitch Size:

                a)   The maximum pitch size is 60 metres by 30 metres, plus 5 metres for each in-goal area.

                b)  Reduced pitch sizes are acceptable provided this is agreed between the officiating referee and coaches, and the smaller pitches do not materially increase the risk of injury to players.

                c)   Adjacent pitches should be no closer than 5 metres.

4.      Passing:

The ball can only be passed sideways or backwards (but not forwards).  If the ball is knocked forwards then a free pass is awarded to the non-offending team, unless advantage occurs to the non-offending team.  In order to keep the game flowing, referees may play advantage wherever possible.

5.      Free Passes:

                a)            A free pass is used:

i.       to start the match at the beginning of each half from the centre of the pitch.

ii.     where there has been foul play.

iii.    For a forward pass.

iv.   For a knock on.

v.     After a try is scored, to restart the match by the non-scoring team from the centre of the pitch

vi.     When the ball or ball carrier goes into touch, 5 metres in from the side of the pitch where the ball or ball carrier went into touch

vii.    If the ball is pulled from the ball carrier’s grasp

viii.  If the tackler makes contact above the shoulder

                b)  At a free pass, the opposition must be 7 metres back from the mark.  They cannot start moving forward until the ball leaves the hands of the passer.  At a free pass, the player must start with the ball in both hands and, when instructed by the referee who will call “Play”, pass the ball backwards through the air to a member of their team.  For safety reasons, no player may run until the pass is made.  The player taking the free pass must pass the ball when the referee calls “Play”.

6.      The Tackle:

a)      Only the ball carrier can be tackled.  The ball carrier can run and dodge potential tacklers but cannot fend off or hand off using their hands  or the ball.  The ball cannot be pulled out of the ball carrier’s hands at any time.

b)      A “Tackle” is deemed to be any contact below the arm pits of the ball carrier which results in the ball carrier being held by the opponent of the ball carrier.  Where the ball carrier remains on their feet the referee must call “Tackle” (allow approximately 3 seconds to establish whether the ball carrier is held).  Where the ball carrier is taken to ground, the referee must also call “Tackle”.

         ACTIONS BY THE BALL CARRIER in the tackle:

c)       The ball carrier, on hearing “Tackle” from the referee must pass the ball to a supporting player from their own team, either from standing or from the ground within 3 seconds of the call.

d)      Once “Tackle” has been called the ball carrier can continue to go forward (if on their feet), but must pass within 3 seconds.

e)      The ball carrier cannot score a try once “Tackle” has been called and must pass to a supporting player.

f)       If the ball carrier is within a metre of their opponents’ goal line the referee should allow the 3 seconds before calling “Tackle”.  If the player touches the ball down over the goal line within that time, a try should be awarded.

         ACTIONS BY THE TACKLER:

g)      The tackler must grasp the ball carrier below the arm pits, on the shirt, shorts or around the legs.

h)      The tackler may not contest the ball (grabbing it, blocking the pass), but must simply work to stop the ball carrier from gaining ground.

i)        More than one defender is allowed in the tackle, but must allow the ball carrier to pass the ball.

j)        Once the referee has called “Tackle”, the opponent can continue to keep hold to prevent further forward movement of the ball carrier, must not prevent the ball carrier from passing the ball and must release and re-join the game once the pass has been made.  If the tackle is made to ground, the tackler must release and get to their feet as soon as possible, (and must not  contest the ball nor block the pass and must get in an on-side position (between their own goal line and the tackled player).

k)      If the ball carrier has not been held for 3 seconds and the referee has not called “Tackle”, the ball carrier is allowed to score a try after being tackled, or in one movement (if on the ground) place the ball over the goal line.

         ACTIONS BY THE ATTACKING TEAM:

l)        When the tackle is made the attacking team should support from behind.

m)    The supporting players may not assist the ball carrier in moving forward by either driving with the shoulder or binding on.

n)      The supporting players must be in a position to receive a pass.

o)      A supporting player may rip the ball from the ball carrier but must then pass the ball immediately to a team mate.

p)      Supporting players must not deliberately stand either team and in close proximity to the ball carrier to prevent defenders from making the next tackle.

q)      A supporting player may pick the ball up from a tackled player or ground, but must then pass the ball immediately to a team mate.

ACTIONS BY THE DEFENDING TEAM:

r)       When the tackle is made other opponents cannot prevent the ball carrier from passing the ball

s)       The tackled player represents the off side line and defenders must endeavour to retreat to stay between their own goal line and the tackled player until the pass is made (off side).

7.      Transitional Rugby Variation:

TO BE AGREED BY BOTH COACHES & REFEREE PRIOR TO THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE MATCH.  Where the players are confident & proficient and to challenge them further:  To reward good defence and to promote the attacking  team keeping the ball alive by passing the ball before being tackled, the team in possession of a ball will only be allowed to be tackled a maximum of 6 times before scoring a try.  At the 7th tackle, the referee will stop the game and give the ball to the other team by awarding a free pass at the point that the tackle took place.  If the 7th tackle takes place one or more metres from the goal line and the ball is grounded, the try will be disallowed and the opposition will be given the ball for a free pass 7 metres out from the goal line, in line with the point the goal line was crossed.

It the coaches and referee do not agree, the rules variations set out in point 7 above shall not apply.

8.      Offside:

Offside only occurs at the time of the tackle where the offside line is the hindmost part of the tackled player.  When a tackle is made, all the other players from the defending team must attempt to retire towards their own goal line until they are behind the hindmost part of the tackled player.  If a player, in an offside position, intercepts, prevents or slows down a pass from the tackled player to a team mate, a free pass will be awarded to the non-offending team.  A player can, however, run from an onside position to intercept a floated pass before it reaches the intended receiver.

9.      Prohibited Play:

There is total emphasis for the attack: on running with the ball, evasion, running in support of the ball carrier and passing; and for the defence: on running to tackle the ball carrier, prevent them going forward, and to get back into the game.  In Under 9 rugby the following are not permitted:

a)      no contact above the shoulder: The tackler can only make contact with the ball carrier below the arm pits.  If such contact is made the game must be stopped, the offender spoken to, reminded of the contact rules and a free pass awarded to the non-offending team

b)      no kicking of any kind

c)       no hand off or fend off (a hand off being the placing of an open palmed hand by the ball carrier against an opponent’s face or body while a fend off is an outstretched arm by the ball carrier towards an opponent to discourage that person making a tag)

d)      The ball must not be pulled from the ball carrier’s grasp. 

10.   Ball on the Ground

a)      Players must play rugby on their feet, with the ball in hand.  If the ball goes to ground, players should be encouraged to pick it up.  If they dive to recover the ball they must either get up or play the ball (pass) immediately and be allowed to do so by their opponents.

b)      If the ball was lost forward, a free pass is awarded to the non-offending team unless advantage occurs to the non-offending team.

c)       If the ball is passed other than forward and goes to ground play will continue and either team may pick up the ball.  If the passed ball rolls into touch a free pass will be awarded  at one metre in from the touchline to the opposition  team.

    

UNDER 10s NEW RULES OF PLAY (Transitional Contact)

Players and match officials must also ensure that RFU Regulation 15  www.rfu.com/thegame/regulations and the IRB Laws of the Game, modified by the Rules of Play, are observed when playing rugby at Under 10.

Club Rugby:        As of 1 September 2014, the Under 10s Rules of Play set out below are mandatory and replace the previous Under 10s Rules of Play in their entirety in respect of all club rugby.

School Rugby:    The Under 10s Rules of Play set out below are discretionary only in school rugby but the RFU will continue to work with IAPS and the ERSFU with a view to eventually converge the schools’ Rules of Play with those of club rugby.  The previous Rules of Play that can still be played by schools can be found at www.rfu.com/thegame/regulations.

Any terms defined in these Rules shall have the meanings set out in the IRB Laws of the Game.

The key elements of the Under 10s Rules of Play are:

·           Team numbers: 7 or 8-a-side

·           Maximum pitch size: 60 metres x 35 metres

·           Ball Size: 4

·           Introduction of uncontested scrum

·           Nearest 3 players in scrum (all players trained, late specialisation)

·           Contest for the ball (1 player v 1 player)

·           Introduction of Maul

·           Introduction of Ruck

1.      General:

a)      The object of the game is to score a try by placing the ball with a downward pressure on or behind the opponents’ goal line.  A penalty try will be awarded if a try would probably have been scored but for foul play by the defending team.

b)      Only infringements that affect the opposition’s play should be penalised.

2.      Teams:

a)      Under 10 Rugby is played between teams of equal numbers of players, containing seven or eight players from each team on the pitch at any one time.  

b)      Rolling substitutions are permitted and substituted players can be re-used at any time.  Substitutions can only take place when the ball is dead and always with the referee’s knowledge.

3.      Pitch Size:

a)      The maximum pitch size is 60 metres by 35 metres, plus 5 metres for each in-goal area.

b)      Reduced pitch sizes are acceptable provided this is agreed between the referee and coaches of both teams, and the smaller pitches do not materially increase the risk of injury to players.

c)       Adjacent pitches should be no closer than 5 metres.

4.      Passing:

a)      The ball can only be passed sideways or backwards.  If the ball is handed to another player who is in front or passed or knocked forwards (towards the opponents’ dead ball line) then a scrum is awarded to the non-offending team, unless advantage occurs to the non-offending team.  In order to keep the game flowing, referees should play advantage wherever possible.

b)      Where the ball has been ripped from the ball carrier, whether by the attacker or defender, the ball must be passed immediately away from the contact area.

5.      Free Passes:

a)    A free pass is used:

i.         to start the match at the beginning of each half and following a score, from the centre of the pitch

ii.       where the ball or ball carrier has gone into touch, 5 metres in from the side of the pitch where the ball or ball carrier went into touch

iii.      where there is offside and no advantage

iv.     where a fend-off or hand-off has been used

v.       when there has been foul play

vi.     once forward momentum has been stopped and the ball has not been played away from the contact area

vii.    if the tackler makes contact above the shoulder

viii.  If a team contests, pushes or strikes for the ball in the scrum  

ix.     in the event that a ball carrier uses the “Squeezeball” technique

                   Note:  “Squeezeball” is a technique where the ball carrier goes to ground, head forward (touching or close to the ground), irrespective of immediate contact with opponents, usually keeping parallel to the touchline, holding and protecting the ball close to the chest and, when on the ground, pushing the ball back between the legs.

b)                  At a free pass, the opposition must be 7 metres back from the mark.  They cannot start moving forward until the ball leaves the hands of the passer.  At a free pass, the player must start with the ball in both hands and, when instructed by the referee who will call “Play”, pass the ball backwards through the air to a member of their team.  For safety reasons, no player may run until the pass is made.  The player taking the free pass must pass the ball when the referee calls “Play”.

6.            The Tackle, Maul and Ruck

a)      A “tackle” is deemed to be any contact below the armpits of the ball carrier which results in the ball carrier being held  by the opponent of the ball carrier.  Where the ball carrier is taken to ground, the referee will call “Tackle-Release”.

b)      A “maul” is formed when the ball carrier and tackler are joined by one additional player from either the defending or attacking team. No more than two players from either side (including the ball carrier and tackler) can be involved in the maul.

c)       A “ruck” is formed when one player from each team, are on their feet, in physical contact and close around the ball on the ground. Players are rucking when they are in a ruck and using their feet to try to win or keep possession of the ball, without being guilty of foul play.  Open play has ended.

d)      Only the ball carrier can be tackled.  The ball carrier can run and dodge potential tacklers but cannot fend them off using their hands or the ball.

e)      The tackler must grasp the ball carrier below the armpits, on the shirt, shorts or around the legs.

f)       When the ball carrier grounds the ball on or over the  opponents’ goal line, a try should be awarded.

g)      When the ball carrier is held in contact and remains on their feet they may continue to progress forward.  Once forward momentum has been stopped, the ball must be played away from the contact area.

h)      When the ball carrier is not taken to ground, the tackler may contest the ball by grabbing it.

i)        When the ball carrier is taken to ground, the tackler must immediately release the ball carrier and must  get to their feet as soon as possible before he is permitted to contest the ball  or block the pass.

j)        If the ball carrier is taken to ground and the referee calls  “Tackle-Release”, the ball carrier must  pass the ball immediately, roll away or place the ball towards their own team.

k)      When a maul is formed the ball must be made available within 5 seconds.  The referee should call “Use it” and the ball should be moved away from the contact area.  If neither team can pass the ball away, a scrum should be awarded to the defending team.

l)        When the tackle is made the attacking team may only support from behind.

m)    When the tackle is made and the ball carrier is on the ground, ONE supporting player may join to form a ruck but must do so from their own side (i.e. from the direction of their own goal line) and:

                       i.              Drive over the ball, taking their immediate opponent away from the ball; or

                       ii.             Pick up the ball and pass away from the contact area; or

                       iii.            Pick up the ball and run if the ruck is not formed or if the ball is out of the ruck

n)      A supporting player may rip the ball from the ball carrier but must then pass the ball immediately to a team mate.

o)      If m)i. above has taken place, the next arriving player  must pass the ball to another player.

p)      When the ball has been clearly won by a team at a ruck and the ball is available to be played the referee will call “Use it” after which the ball must be played within 5 seconds.  If the ball is not played within 5 seconds the referee will award a scrum and the team not in possession of the ball at the ruck is awarded the throw-in.

q)      Support players must not stand either side and in close proximity to the ball carrier to prevent defenders from making the next tackle.

7.      Scrums:

         a)            A scrum will be awarded for:

i.         Forward pass; or

ii.       Knock on; or

iii.      Where the ball does not emerge from a maul or ruck; or

iv.     Where the ball becomes unplayable

         b)            The scrum will consist of 3 players from each team, i.e. a prop on either side of the hooker.  They will be the nearest 3 players from either side, with the fourth  nearest acting as scrum half.

         c)            The referee will call "Crouch" and then "Bind". The front rows crouch and using their outside arm each prop must bind onto the arm of their opponent. Following a pause, the referee will then call "Set" when the front rows are ready. The front rows may then engage.

         d)            The scrum is uncontested  and the team awarded the scrum will throw the ball into the scrum. Neither team may contest or push and only the side throwing the ball in may  strike for the ball. 

         e)            Front rows must not charge at each other.  If they start to set too close together and with their necks and backs bent, the scrum must be stopped and the scrum reformed.  Props’ body positions must be parallel to the touchline , their head and shoulders must be no lower than the hips and there must be no downward pressure exerted.  Shoulders must always be above the level of the hips.

                       Note to referee: Although unlikely at this age, referees and coaches MUST be aware of the following: If the scrum collapses, the whistle must immediately be blown and the appropriate sanction awarded or the scrum reset.  If a player is persistently involved in collapsing or illegal binding, they must not take any further park in the scrum or if a player’s lack of technique or strength is a danger then they must be replaced.  All players, including replacements, should be suitably trained and experienced.

8.      Offside:

         a)            In general play, anyone who is in front of a team mate who has played the ball is liable to sanction unless they return to an onside position (i.e. behind the team mate who played the ball).

         b)            At the tackle, offside occurs at the time of the tackle where the offside line is the hindmost part of the tackled player and tackler.  All the other players from the defending team must retire towards their own goal line until they are behind the hindmost part of the tackled player and tackler. 

         c)            At the maul, where contact is made and the ball carrier stays on their feet and a maul is formed, the offside line is the hindmost foot of the hindmost player in the maul. 

         d)            At the ruck, the offside line is the hindmost foot of the hindmost player in the ruck.

9.      Prohibited Play:

         a)            The ball carrier can run and dodge potential tacklers but cannot fend or hand them off

         b)            The tackler can only make contact with the ball carrier below the armpits.

         c)            No kicking of any kind

         d)            No player shall use the technique known or referred to as “Squeezeball” and no person involved in the teaching or coaching of rugby may teach or coach to encourage to use the “Squeezeball” technique. 

                      

  

UNDER 11s NEW RULES OF PLAY (Transitional Contact)

Players and match officials must also ensure that RFU Regulation 15  www.rfu.com/thegame/regulations and the IRB Laws of the Game, modified by the Rules of Play, are observed when playing rugby at Under 11.

Club Rugby:        As of 1 September 2014, all Constituent Bodies are permitted to implement the Under 11s Rules of Play set out below on a discretionary basis.  Alternatively, Constituent Bodies are permitted to continue to implement the previous Under 11s Rules of Play that can be found at www.rfu.com/thegame/regulations.

School Rugby:    The Under 11s Rules of Play set out below are also discretionary in school rugby but the RFU will continue to work with IAPS and the ERSFU with a view to eventually converge the schools’ Rules of Play with those of club rugby.  The previous Rules of Play that can still be played by schools can be found at www.rfu.com/thegame/regulations.

Any terms defined in these Rules shall have the meanings set out in the IRB Laws of the Game.

The key elements of the Under 11s Rules of Play are:

·           Team numbers: 7, 8 or 9-a-side

·           Maximum pitch size: 60 metres x 43 metres

·           Ball Size: 4

·           Continuation of uncontested scrum

·           Nearest 3 players in scrum (all players trained, late specialisation)

·           3 player contest for the ball

·           Introduction of ball carrier plus 2 and tackler plus 2

·           Introduction of tactical kicking and kicking restart

1.      General:

a)   The object of the game is to score a try by placing the ball with a downward pressure on or behind the opponents’ goal line.  A penalty try will be awarded if a try would probably have been scored but for foul play by the defending team.

b)  Only infringements that affect the opposition’s play should be penalised.

2.      Teams:

a)      Under 11 Rugby is played between teams of equal numbers of players, containing seven, eight or nine players from each team on the pitch at any one time.  

b)      Rolling substitutions are permitted and substituted players can be re-used at any time.  Substitutions can only take place when the ball is dead and always with the referee’s knowledge.

3.      Pitch Size:

a)      The maximum pitch size is 60 metres by 43 metres, plus 5 metres for each in-goal area.

b)      Reduced pitch sizes are acceptable provided this is agreed between the referee and coaches from both teams, and the smaller pitches do not materially increase the risk of injury to players.

c)       Adjacent pitches should be no closer than 5 metres.

d)      Provision should be made to indicate the position of the line 15 metres out from each goal line, serving a similar purpose to the 22 metre line in the IRB Laws of the Game.

4.      Starts and Restarts

a)      A drop kick from the centre of the half way line will be used to start the game, the second half, and for all restarts after a score.  After a score, the team which has been scored against will have the option to receive the kick or kick to the opposing team. 

b)      The kicker’s team must be behind the ball until it has been kicked and the non-kicking team must be at least 7 metres back from the half way line.

c)       If the ball does not travel 7 metres but is first played by an opponent, play continues.

d)      If the ball does not travel 7 metres or is played by the kicking team before reaching 7 metres or is kicked directly into touch, the non-kicking team will have the option to have the ball kicked off again or to have a scrum at the centre of the half-way line and the throw in to the scrum.

e)      Where players of the kicking team are in front of the kicker at the kick-off the non-kicking team shall have a throw in to a scrum on the half way line.

f)       If from the kick-off the ball is kicked into the in-goal, without having touched or been touched by a player and is then immediately  touched down or made dead, or the ball goes into touch in goal, the non-kicking team has the choice of:

                       i.              a throw in to a scrum by the non-kicking team at the centre of the half way line

                       ii.             the kick to be re-taken.

5.      Free kick

a)      Following the infringement from the following offences a free kick will be awarded to the non-offending team:

                       i.              Foul Play

                       ii.             Offside

                       iii.  Where a fend off or hand off has been used

                       iv.  In the event that a ball carrier uses the “squeezeball” technique

                       Note:     “Squeezeball” is a technique where the ball carrier goes to ground, head forward (touching or close to the ground), irrespective of immediate contact with opponents, usually keeping parallel to the touchline, holding and protecting the ball close to the chest and, when on the ground, pushing the ball back between the legs.

                         v.  If a player voluntarily falls on or over a player lying on the ground with the ball in his possession or voluntarily fall on or over players lying on the ground with the ball between them, or near them

                         vi. If a player is prevented by the opposition from passing the ball when the ball has gone to ground

                         vii. If a team contests, pushes or strikes for the ball in the scrum  

b)      A free kick is a kick from hand.  This can either be a tap by the player to himself, or a kick to gain ground.  The opponents must be 7 metres back, towards their own goal line.

6.      Passing:

a)      The ball can only be passed sideways or backwards.  If the ball is handed to another player who is in front or passed or knocked forwards (towards the opponents’ dead ball line) then a scrum is awarded to the non-offending team, unless advantage occurs to the non-offending team.  In order to keep the game flowing, referees should play advantage wherever possible.

b)      Where the ball has been ripped from the ball carrier, whether by the attacker or defender, the ball must be passed immediately away from the contact area.

7.      Free Passes:

         a)        A free pass is used:

i.                     where the ball or ball carrier has gone into touch, 5 metres in from the side of the pitch where the ball or ball carrier went into touch

ii.                   once forward momentum has been stopped and the ball has not been played away from the contact area

iii.                  if the tackler makes contact above the shoulder

iv.                 If the tackler makes contact above the shoulder

            b)       At a free pass, the opposition must be 7 metres back from the mark.  They cannot start moving forward until the ball leaves the hands of the passer.  At a free pass, the player must start with the ball in both hands and, when instructed by the referee who will call “Play”, pass the ball backwards through the air to a member of their team.  For safety reasons, no player may run until the pass is made.  The player taking the free pass must pass the ball when the referee calls “Play”.

8.            The Tackle, Maul and Ruck

                a)   A “tackle” is deemed to be any contact below the armpits of the ball carrier which results in the ball carrier being held  by the opponent of the ball carrier.  Where the ball carrier is taken to ground, the referee will call “Tackle-Release”.

b)            A “maul” is formed when the ball carrier and tackler are joined by two additional players from either the defending or attacking team. No more than 3 players from either side (including the ball carrier and tackler) can be involved in the maul.

c)            A “ruck” is formed when two  players from each team, are on their feet, in physical contact and close around the ball on the ground. Players are rucking when they are in a ruck and using their feet to try to win or keep possession of the ball, without being guilty of foul play.  Open play has ended.

                d)  Only the ball carrier can be tackled.  The ball carrier can run and dodge potential tacklers but cannot fend them off using their hands or the ball.

e)            The tackler must grasp the ball carrier below the armpits, on the shirt, shorts or around the legs.

f)             When the ball carrier grounds the ball on or over the opponents’ goal line, a try should be awarded.

g)            When the ball carrier is held in contact and remains on their feet they may continue to progress forward.  Once forward momentum has been stopped, the ball must be played away from the contact area.

h)            When the ball carrier is not taken to ground, the tackler may contest the ball by grabbing it.

                i)    When the ball carrier is taken to ground, the tackler must immediately release the ball carrier and must get to their feet as soon as possible before he is permitted to contest the ball or block the pass.

j)             If the ball carrier is taken to ground and the referee calls  “Tackle-Release”, the ball carrier must  pass the ball immediately, roll away or place the ball towards their own team.

k)            When a maul is formed the ball must be made available within 5 seconds.  The referee should call “Use it” and the ball should be moved away from the contact area.  If neither team can pass the ball away, a scrum should be awarded to the defending team.

                l)    When the tackle is made the attacking team may only support from behind.

                m) When the tackle is made and the ball carrier is on the ground, two supporting players may join to form a ruck but must do so from their own side (i.e. from the direction of their own goal line) and:

                       i.              Drive over the ball, taking their immediate opponent away from the ball; or

                       ii.             Pick up the ball and pass away from the contact area; or

                       iii.            Pick up the ball and run if the ruck is not formed or if the ball is out of the ruck

                n)  A supporting player may rip the ball from the ball carrier but must then pass the ball immediately to a team mate.

o)            If m)i. above has taken place, the next arriving player  must pass the ball to another player.

p)            When the ball has been clearly won by a team at a ruck and the ball is available to be played the referee will call “Use it” after which the ball must be played within 5 seconds.  If the ball is not played within 5 seconds the referee will award a scrum and the team not in possession of the ball at the ruck is awarded the throw-in.

q)            Support players must not  stand either side and in close proximity to the ball carrier to prevent defenders from making the next tackle.

9.      Kicking:

         a)            Kicking on the ground is prohibited (often referred to as a ‘fly-hack’).

         b)            If the ball is kicked outside of the 22 metre line directly into touch, a free pass  is awarded to opposing  in line with where the ball was kicked and 5 metres in from the touchline, unless the non-kicking team elects to take a quick throw-in, in accordance with 9(g).

         c)            Other than from a restart or a free kick, if a ball is caught directly from a kick anywhere on the pitch, by any player of the non-kicking team, one of the following options applies:

                         i.    Play on

                         ii.   A “mark” is called and the referee awards a free kick to the non-kicking team.

         d)            Other than from a restart, a free kick or charge down, if from a kick the ball is played in flight by a player of the non-kicking team and knocked forward, a scrum will be awarded to the non-kicking team from where the ball is touched.

         e)            If from a kick the non-kicking team plays the ball and it goes backward, advantage can be played to the non-kicking team.  Where no advantage is gained a scrum should be awarded to the non-kicking team.

         f)             Drop goals are not permitted.

         g)            Where the kick goes into touch the non-kicking team has the option to take a quick throw in preference to the free pass unless it has been touched by a spectator (including coaches/replacements). It must be the same ball that was kicked into touch. For a quick throw-in, the player may be anywhere outside the field of play between the line of touch and the player’s goal line.  If the ball is brought back into the field of play, or players from the kicking team are in close proximity before the throw can be taken the referee should award a free-kick in accordance with the rules above.

10.   Actions Inside the 22 Metre Line (the “22”):

         a)            If the ball is kicked from within the 22 by the defending team and goes directly into touch, a free pass will be awarded to the non-kicking team 5 metres in from where the ball crossed the touchline unless it has been passed back into the “22” and there has been no subsequent ruck, maul, tackle and touching of the opposition player, in which case a restart will be from where the ball was kicked.

         b)            A drop out “22” will be awarded:

                         i.    when the ball is kicked into in-goal by the attacking team and grounded by a defender; or

                         ii.   when the ball is kicked, sent or carried into in-goal by the attacking team and the ball touches or crosses the in-goal touchline or dead ball line

11.   Ball to Ground

         a)            Players must play rugby on their feet, with the ball in hand. 

         b)            If the ball goes to ground, players should be encouraged to pick it up.  If they dive to recover the ball they must either get up or pass the ball immediately and be allowed to do so by the opposition. 

         c)            If the ball is lost forward, a scrum is awarded to the non-offending team unless advantage occurs to the non-offending team.

         d)            If the ball is passed other than forward and goes to ground, play will continue and either side may pick up the ball.  If the passed ball rolls into touch a scrum will be awarded  5 metres from the touchline level with where it crossed the touchline to the non-offending team.

12.   Scrums:

         a)            A scrum will be awarded for:

i.                     Forward pass; or

ii.                   Knock on; or

iii.                  Where the ball does not emerge from a maul or ruck; or

iv.                 Where the ball becomes unplayable

         b)            The scrum will consist of 3 players from each team, i.e. a prop on either side of the hooker.  They will be the nearest 3 players from either side, with the fourth  nearest acting as scrum half.

         c)            The referee will call "Crouch" and then "Bind". The front rows crouch and using their outside arm each prop must bind onto the arm of their opponent. Following a pause, the referee will then call "Set" when the front rows are ready. The front rows may then engage.

         d)            The scrum is uncontested  and the team awarded the scrum will throw the ball into the scrum.   Neither team may contest or push and only the side throwing the ball in may  strike for the ball. 

         e)            Front rows must not charge at each other.  If they start to set too close together and with their necks and backs bent, the scrum must be stopped and the scrum reformed.  Props’ body positions must be parallel to the touchline , their head and shoulders must be no lower than the hips and there must be no downward pressure exerted.  Shoulders must always be above the level of the hips.

                         Note to referee: Although unlikely at this age, referees and coaches MUST be aware of the following: If the scrum collapses, the whistle must immediately be blown and the appropriate sanction awarded or the scrum reset.  If a player is persistently involved in collapsing or illegal binding, they must not take any further park in the scrum or if a player’s lack of technique or strength is a danger then they must be replaced.  All players, including replacements, should be suitably trained and experienced.

         f)             The back line of both teams must remain 5 metres behind the scrum until the ball emerges or the opposing scrum half lifts the ball from the ground. Until this happens, their scrum half must remain directly behind his scrum, in the pocket edged by the two props.         

         g)            If a scrum is awarded within 5 metres of the goal line, the scrum is to be taken at a mark such that the middle line of the scrum is 5 metres from the goal line.  In this case the backs of the defending team must stay on or behind the goal line.            

                         Note to referees:  Referees should pay particular attention to ensure that the scrum half throwing the ball into the scrum is not “feeding” his own players: the scrum half must hold the ball with both hands, with its major axis parallel to the ground/the touchline, midway between his knees and ankles.  The scrum half must release the ball from outside the tunnel so that it lands midway between the two front rows and beyond the width of the nearer props’ shoulders.

13.   Offside:

         a)            In general play, anyone who is in front of a team mate who has played the ball is liable to sanction unless they return to an onside position (i.e. behind the team mate who played the ball).

         b)            At the tackle, offside occurs at the time of the tackle where the offside line is the hindmost part of the tackled player and tackler.  All the other players from the defending team must retire towards their own goal line until they are behind the hindmost part of the tackled player and tackler. 

         c)            At the maul, where contact is made and the ball carrier stays on their feet and a maul is formed, the offside line is the hindmost foot of the hindmost player in the maul. 

         d)            At the ruck, the offside line is the hindmost foot of the hindmost player in the ruck.

         e)            At the scrum, a player is offside if they are less than 5 meters from the scrum before the ball is out of the scrum, unless the player is the scrum half or participating in the scrum.

         f)             When kicking, a player is offside if they are not behind the ball when it is kicked or behind a line 7 metres in front of the non-kicking team (or the place where the ball will land).

14.   Prohibited Play:

         a)            The ball carrier can run and dodge potential tacklers but cannot fend or hand them off

         b)            The tackler can only make contact with the ball carrier below the armpits.

                c)   No player shall use the technique known or referred to as “Squeezeball” and no person involved in the teaching or coaching of rugby may teach or coach to encourage to use the “Squeezeball” technique. 

         d)            No player shall voluntarily fall on or over a player lying on the ground with the ball in his possession or voluntarily fall on or over players lying on the ground with the ball between them, or near them. 

                       Note to referee:                No advantage shall be played:

·         A player is assumed to have fallen voluntarily unless the referee is absolutely certain the fall was accidental.

In the very rare instances when the fall is accidental, play must be stopped and a scrum awarded to the team previously in possession.  The object is to keep players on their feet and to prevent them from falling to the ground, thus removing a dangerous area of play.  This will create proper rucks and mauls through encouraging players from each team to remain on their feet.