MINI/MIDIRUGBY DIRECTIVE
For season 2002/2003

NON-CONTACT MINI RUGBY UNDER 7
Stage 1

NON-CONTACT MINI RUGBY UNDER 8

Stage 1

MINI CONTACT RUGBY UNDER 9 AND UNDER 10
Stage 2

MIDI RUGBY UNDER 11 AND UNDER 12

Stage 3

INTRODUCTION TO THE RUGBY CONTINUUM

1. Except where the following Rules amend or adapt the Laws of the Game to suit the development of young players, the Laws of the Game shall apply.
 
2. In response to the Education Reform Act 1988 and the establishment of the National Curriculum for Physical Education (September 1992) in Schools, the Rugby Football Union has included notification of the appropriate Stages for each age group.

3. The Continuum and Schools. The RFU recognises that boys and girls in some Schools, particularly in Independent and Preparatory Schools, are introduced to many different sports from an early age. It is not uncommon to find young players having rugby lessons five afternoons a week. Children having the benefit of this level of exposure to the game are likely to have a greater knowledge and experience of the game than those meeting once a week (i.e. on a Sunday), even though their physiques may be similar.

The RFU currently has a dispensation in place for Under 12’s in Schools and Clubs that allows parental permission to be given to enable them to play 15-a-side rugby alongside the Under 13’s.

The RFU also recognises that within Schools the game may be taught by those in possession of a Teachers’ Certificate of Education and who, having completed their probationary year, are fully qualified teachers. However, it recommends that each School has a close regard to health and safety issues and carries out any necessary risk assessments in relation to its safe and competent teaching of the game.

In addition the new RFU coach education courses for Mini Tag and Mini Contact Rugby have been designed specifically to give individuals (whether in Schools or in Clubs) the opportunity to gain an understanding of coaching at those levels so that those in their charge are coached safely.

4. Should you wish to suggest Rule or Law changes, please contact The RFU National Referee Centre of Excellence, Castlecroft Road, Castlecroft, Wolverhampton, WV3 8NA, or approach your local Rugby Development Officer.

 MINI/MIDI RUGBY - DIRECTIVE FOR 2002/2003 SEASON

1. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS & OBJECTIVES
 
 The Rugby Football Union and the Rugby Football Union for Women (RFUW) are most grateful to the many who are organising and encouraging the game of Mini/Midi Rugby in England. The Unions are also anxious to emphasise that this game is intended to be a means of coaching and encouraging children with the objective of their playing 15-a-side rugby at the age of under 13. In order to achieve this objective, and the correct balance between coaching and competition along the way, the Rugby Football Union sets out below its intentions for the organisation and control of this aspect of the game.
 
2. THE PURPOSE OF THE CONTINUUM

 The Rugby Continuum must be viewed as a coaching pathway through which each youngster acquires, by gradual degrees, those skills required to participate in the full 15-a-side game by the age of under 13. The emphasis must be geared towards the improvement of individual skills through purposeful and enjoyable activity. In order to allow for the testing of these skills in match situations, a limited number of competitive fixtures and festivals/tournaments may be introduced.
 
 In order to achieve the correct balance between coaching and competition, the maximum number of fixtures and festivals are listed for each age grade.
 
 A game format is introduced at each age grade in order that young players may progress towards the 15-a-side game, through clearly defined Stages that are compatible with the development of their physical and conceptual abilities. It therefore must be made clear that Mini and Midi Rugby are not shortened versions of the adult game.
 
3. THE CONTINUUM STAGES

From September 2002 there will be three Stages of the Continuum covering the six different age grades.

STAGE 1
The under 7 age grade will play Mini Tag Rugby to the standard set of rules.
The under 8 age grade will continue to play Non-Contact/Touch Rugby (for season 2002-3 only) to the standard set of rules.

STAGE 2
The under 9 and under 10 age grades will both play Mini Contact Rugby to the same standard set of rules; except under 9s will have uncontested scrums and line-outs and under 10s contested scrums and line-outs.

STAGE 3
The under 11 and under 12 age grades will both play Midi Contact rugby to the same standard set of rules  

4. AGE GRADES

The age grading of all Continuum players must be determined by their age at midnight on 31st August/1st September at the beginning of the season in which matches are to be played.

All teams must play in their individual age grades, e.g. under 9 equals one age grade, under 10 equals one age grade.

Age grades may be combined ONLY if Clubs do NOT have enough players to form a team.  The maximum numbers of players allowed to play ‘down’ an age grade is TWO.

Specifically players may only play ‘down’ an age grade as follows:

Under 7s and under 8s may play together, utilising the Mini Tag format. No under 7 or under 8 child may play with under 9 children or above in any circumstances.

Under 9s and under 10s may play together, utilising the under 9 Mini Contact format. No under 9s may play with under 11s or above in any circumstances.

Under 10s and under 11s may play together utilising the under 10 Mini Contact format. No under 10 child may play with under 12s or above in any circumstances.

Under 11s and under 12s may play together utilising the Midi Contact game format. 

Under 13s and above cannot play down into the Continuum.

Players must not play ‘up’ an age grade in any circumstances.

Players that have not reached their 6th birthday. Clubs must not select to play in interclub organised team matches any child that has not reached his/her 6th birthday. This does not preclude Clubs safely involving players who have not reached their 6th birthday in their internal Club activities.

Dispensation. Where a Club or School does not have an under 12 side, an under 12s may play with an under 13 side but only with parental consent. No player under 11 or below can play in an under 13 side.

 
5. COACHING THE CONTINUUM

 Clubs must endeavour to ensure that qualified coaches supervise all persons, who are not accredited or qualified to coach.
 
 All coaches should attend a Mini Tag, Mini Contact or Level 1 Rugby Football Union (RFU) coach education course as soon as possible. (Note: These courses now include a refereeing module). Please contact your Constituent Body or the nearest Rugby Development Officer.
 
 In order to qualify coaches to lead youngsters through the three Stages of Mini/Midi rugby a number of RFU coach education courses are readily available. Constituent Bodies, Clubs and Schools must encourage all helpers to attend these courses in order to acquire a greater understanding of how they must introduce all aspects of the game, including safety and equity, to players. This will ensure that all concerned enjoy the game. These coach education courses now include:
 
 Mini Tag course (<half-day) where all attendees will receive a certificate of attendance and supporting resources.
 Midi Contact course leading to a qualification.
 Level 1 coaching course leading to a qualification.

The month of September is solely for coach education courses and for the coaching of players under 7 to under 12 age grade players.  No matches or festivals are to be played during this month.
 
The month of January is also for coach education courses. During this month Club coaches must give priority to their own development, accreditation or qualification by attending the appropriate coach education course.  If sufficient coaches are already qualified or accredited then coaching sessions and/or matches may continue to be organised.

On match days against outside opposition, a coaching session should always precede the match. All matches must be used as an extension of the coaching session, with the emphasis being on the quality of performance rather than the result. Mismatches can be avoided by talking to the Coach in charge of the opposition before the game.
 
6. CHILD PROTECTION

Young people are the future of Rugby Union. Every young player who participates in Rugby Union must be able to do so in a safe and enjoyable environment. The RFU places the highest priority on their SAFETY and ENJOYMENT and recognises that it has a "duty of care "towards young people within the sport and that any Club or Constituent Body providing rugby opportunities must do so with the highest possible care

ALL adults who come in to contact with young people in the rugby union MUST be familiar with the following publications:

 RFU Fair Play Codes (Guidelines for people involved in Mini/Youth rugby)
 RFU Child Protection Guidance leaflet

It is also STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that ALL adults who come into contact with young people undertake Child Protection Awareness training

7. THE CONTINUUM SEASON
 
(a) The season runs from 1st September to 30th April inclusive. The playing of Mini/Midi rugby matches in England by, or between, Clubs outside the season (as defined by these dates) is expressly forbidden. Only R.F.U. approved or organised festivals/tournaments may take place in May. Applications for such approval must be made through Constituent Bodies to the Community Rugby and Operations Department at Twickenham by February 1st of each year.

(b) The first Sunday in September should be player registration day.

(c) There must be no fixtures during September and fixtures should commence on the first Sunday in October.
  
8. DEFINITIONS

 For the purpose of this directive, the following definitions apply:
 
(a) Fixture/Triangular Fixture: The playing of Mini/Midi Rugby between teams of different Schools/Clubs, not more than three Schools/Clubs being involved together on any one day.
 
(b) Festival/Tournament: The playing of Mini/Midi 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.

9. FESTIVALS

At all festivals players must always play within their individual age grade unless Festival rules allow combined age grades to play but they may do so only as defined in Age Grade Directive above. At all festivals no player is to play in more than 5 games.

(a) For festivals for under 7/8 a team shall consist of a maximum of 7 players with a squad containing a maximum of 12 players.

(b) For festivals for under 9/10 a team shall consist of a maximum of 9 players with a squad containing a maximum of 14 players.

(c) For Festivals for under 11/12 a team shall consist of a maximum of 12 players with a squad containing maximum of 18 players.
 

10. NUMBERS OF FIXTURES/FESTIVALS/TOURNAMENTS PER SEASON

(a) Players must be limited to playing in not more than:
 
 Under 7/8 12 fixtures and 3 festivals/tournaments
 Under 9/10 12 fixtures and 3 festivals/tournaments
 Under 11/12 14 fixtures and 3 festivals/tournaments.
 
(b) During the season Clubs must not enter the same team in more than one festival at a weekend.
 
 Tours are defined as fixtures or festivals according to the number of teams involved, and must be counted with the restriction as stated in 10(a) and (b) above.
 
11. MATCH DURATIONS

 The maximum number of minutes to be played at each Stage of the Continuum is:
 
 Stage 3  Under 11/12 
 Fixture:  20 minutes each way • 1 match = 40 minutes
 Triangular:  15 minutes each way • 2 matches = 60 minutes
 Festival/tournament:  7 minutes each way • Maximum of 5 matches = 70 minutes
  No extra time is permitted in any match, except that added for injury time.
 
 Stage 2 Under 9/10 
 Fixture:  15 minutes each way • 1 match = 30 minutes
  Triangular:  10 minutes each way • 2 matches  = 40 minutes
  Festival/tournament:  6 minutes each way • Maximum of 5 matches = 60 minutes
 No extra time is permitted in any match, except that added for injury time.
 
  Stage 1 Under 7/8
 Fixture:  10 minutes each way • 1 match = 20 minutes
 Triangular:  7 1/2 minutes each way • 2 matches = 30 minutes
 Festival/tournament:  5 minutes each way • Maximum of 5 matches = 50 minutes.
 No extra time is permitted in any match, except that added for injury time.
 
 Note 1:  Where Clubs have large squads, additional fixtures/festivals may be arranged, provided that no player plays in more than the maximum number of matches.
 
 Note 2:  Matches must be shortened if one side is scoring too freely (i.e. if the points difference rises to more than 30).
 
 Note 3:  In all cases, these regulations cover maximum numbers. These numbers must not be exceeded. Where Clubs have limited numbers, space and time available, fewer matches involving reduced numbers of players must be considered, the emphasis always being on the gradual development of skill.
 
 Note 4:  Clubs must maintain records giving details of how many matches each Mini/Midi team plays over a season, together with information on how many matches are played by each player, to ensure that individual players are not exceeding the Rugby Continuum limits.
 
12. CONTROL
 
(a) Administration: Constituent Bodies and County Schools’ Unions must oversee the administration of Mini/Midi Rugby and ensure that all affiliated Clubs and Schools comply with the Continuum Rules, Laws and playing restrictions and Child Protection guidelines laid down by the RFU.

(b) Rugby for children: Every Club and School, which plays non-contact rugby, Mini Rugby or Midi Rugby, must accept full responsibility for its proper administration. It must comply with the Rules, Laws, playing restrictions and Child Protection guidelines laid down by the RFU and must endeavour to provide competent coaches.

(c) Health and Safety: Every Club and School must also have close regard to health and safety issues and carry out necessary risk assessments particularly where there is contact.
 
13. PLAYER REGISTRATION
 
 Registration for all youth players was made mandatory in 1998. Clubs must ensure that all Mini/Midi players complete and return registration forms to the Constituent Body Youth Registration Official. Team managers may be required to produce, for inspection, registration cards for each player when participating in fixtures and festivals.
 
14. SAFETY
 
 If a player appears injured, the referee must stop play immediately. He/she must not wait for the ball to go dead, or for anything else. The whistle must be blown at once. It’s better to be safe than sorry! Obviously the referee must use judgement - players don’t want to stop for every slight knock - but it is usually possible to tell when a child is hurt. Take no chances. Act fast - but act with caution. An injured player must not be moved. Essentially, other people/players must be stopped from rushing in and hauling the player to his/her feet. They may mean well, but they could make the damage even worse.
 
 If you find yourself in the situation, concentrate on the vital things. Is there difficulty in breathing? Remove mouth guard to aid breathing. If so, ensure the player hasn’t swallowed their tongue. If they have, hook it out at once. Do they seem stunned? They may be concussed - if so, they must leave the field and have a medical examination. Is there bleeding? If so, the player must leave the field for treatment. But still do not move the player. Invite him/her to get up. If it hurts them to move, let them stay where they are and send for expert help.
 
15. DANGEROUS PLAY
 
 Dangerous play can cause injury. Coaches and referees must be particularly vigilant to prevent it.
 
 High tackling (level with or above the armpit) is dangerous - penalise it!
 Collapsing a ruck or maul is dangerous - penalise it!
 Sloppy scrummaging leads to collapsed scrums - keep the heads no lower than hips
 Hand-offs and fend-offs are dangerous - penalise them!
 Tripping with the foot is dangerous - penalise it!
 Hanging onto the ball while lying on the ground is dangerous (to the holder) - penalise it!
 
 There will always be knocks and bumps in Mini/Midi Rugby, but if dangerous play is eliminated, then many serious injuries will never happen. After a stoppage for injury, restart play with a free pass or a scrum to the team that had possession of the ball immediately prior to the stoppage.
 
16. MEDICAL PROVISION
 
 The RFU strongly recommends that Clubs have suitably qualified first aiders present to provide immediate assistance to any young player who is injured, whether during training sessions or during competitive play against outside opposition.
 
17. DISCIPLINE
 
 If the referee decides to send a player off, he/she must stop the match, call the individual player aside from the other players and invite the coach of that player on to the field. The referee must explain to the coach and the player why he/she feels that the player’s behaviour is unacceptable, and instruct the coach to provide a substitute. That player is to take no further part in that tournament or festival. It is the responsibility of the coach to speak to and educate the player as to why he/she was sent off.
 
18. PITCH SIZES

The maximum pitch size for under-7s and under-8s (tag) is 60 metres x 30 metres, plus 5 metres for each in-goal area.

The maximum pitch size for under-8’s (touch) is 40 metres x 30 metres, plus 2 metres for each in-goal area.

The maximum pitch size for under –9s and under-10s is 60 metres x 35 metres, plus 5 metres for each in-goal area.

The maximum pitch size for under- 11s and under –12s is 60 metres x  43 metres,
Plus 5 metres for each in-goal area.

PITCH DIAGRAMS TO BE ADDED
 RULES OF PLAY-WITH EFFECT FROM 1ST SEPTEMBER 2002

STAGE 1  MINI TAG RUGBY UNDER 7

S1.1 The object of the game is to score a try (5 points) by placing the ball with a downward pressure behind the opponents’ goal-line. For the sake of safety, the ball carrier must remain on his/her feet at all times and is not allowed to score a try by diving over the goal-line.  For safety reasons, where 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.  When a try is scored, the game is restarted by a free pass from the centre of the pitch by the non-scoring team.

S1.2 Tag Rugby is played between teams of equal numbers of players, each team containing not more than seven players and not less than five players. The maximum pitch size is 60 metres x 30 metres, plus 5 metres for each in-goal area.

 Each side can have an agreed number of substitutes.  Substituted players can be re-used at any time.  All substitutions will be when the ‘ball is dead’ or at half time and with the referee’s knowledge.
 
S1.3 The ball can only be passed sideways or backwards through the air, not handed to another player.  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 side, unless advantage occurs to the non offending side.

NOTE In order to keep the game flowing, referees should apply advantage wherever possible.
 
S1.4 THE FREE PASS
 
 A free pass is used to start the match at the beginning of each half from the centre of the pitch, from the side of the pitch when the ball goes into touch and from where the referee makes a mark when an infringement has taken place.
 
 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, the receiver of the pass must not start more than 2 metres from the free pass mark. The player taking the free pass must pass the ball and cannot just run with the ball when the referee calls “PLAY”.
 
 If an infringement takes place 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.
 
S1.5 THE TAG
 
 All players wear a Tag belt, around their waist, with two tags attached to it by Velcro, which are to be 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 are to be worn outside of shirts and not obscured in any way.  Referees are to be watchful for tags being wrapped around the belt preventing them from being pulled off.  Tags are of various colours and can be used to identify teams if they do not have shirts.
 
 A ‘TAG’ is the removal of one of the two tags from the ball carriers 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.
 
 If a player does not have two tags on their belt, they will be penalised if they become a ball carrier or if they tag an opponent.
 
 Penalty: Free pass to non-offending side.
 
 Actions by the ball carrier:
 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 3 strides is a reasonable guide for referees, but the ball can be passed in the act of stopping. Players are however only allowed one step to score a try after being tagged and must stay on their feet. Diving to score a try is unsafe and must be penalised.
 
 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 side at the place of infringement.
 
 Actions by the tagger:
 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”.
 
 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.
 
 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-offending side at the place of infringement.
 
S1.6 OFFSIDE
 
 Offside only occurs immediately at the TAG where the offside line is through the centre of the ball.  When a TAG is made, all 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 teammate, a free pass will be awarded to the non-offending side.
 A player can, however, run from an onside position to intercept a floated pass before it reaches the intended receiver.
 
S1.7 When the ball is carried into touch, the game is restarted with a free pass awarded to the non-offending side.  As with all free passes, opponents must be 7m back from the mark. Free passes from the touchline cannot take place closer than 7 metres from the goal-line. The place for taking the free pass is on the touchline at the point where the ball went out of play.
 
S1.8 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 carrier 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 side.
 
S1.9 There is no kicking of any kind in Tag Rugby.
 
S1.10 Players play Tag Rugby on their feet, with the ball in hand. If the ball goes to ground, players must not dive to the floor to recover the ball.
 
 Penalty: free pass to non-offending side. The following rules will apply.
 
1. If the ball was lost forward, a free pass is awarded to the non-offending side unless advantage occurs to the non-offending side.

2. If the ball carrier falls to the ground with the ball then a free pass will be awarded to the non-ball carrying side.

3. 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 free pass will commence from the touchline to the non-passing side.

4. If the ball is pulled from the ball carriers grasp, a free pass is awarded to the ball carrier’s side.

5. If the ball carrier dives to ground to score a try it will be disallowed and free pass will be awarded to the defending side 5m out from the goal-line.
 
S1.11 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.
 
S1.12 The match is made up of two halves, each of ten minutes duration.  During the 2 minute half-time interval, coaches must take time to talk to, encourage, coach and explain the game to the players.  During the match, coaches can direct and develop play, in a coaching sense, from on the field of play, ideally from behind their teams.  Coaches must help to enforce the carrying of the ball in two hands and prompt players to pass when tagged.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

1. A size 3 ball should be used.
 
2. Players may play a maximum of twelve fixtures and not more than three festivals (at least one in the Constituent Body and two others) in any one season. The emphasis must be on providing the children with an enjoyable introduction to the skills of the game. Competition is of secondary importance.
 
3. Where Clubs have large squads, additional fixtures/festivals may be arranged, provided that no player plays in more than the maximum number.
 
4. At festivals no player is to play in more than 5 games.
 
  Under 7 match durations
  Fixture:  10 minutes each way • 1 game = 20 minutes
  Triangular:  7 1/2 minutes each way • 2 games = 30 minutes
  Festival/tournament:  5 minutes each way • Maximum of 5 games = 50 minutes
 No extra time is permitted in any match, except that added for injury time.
 
5. Games must be shortened if one side is scoring too freely (i.e. if the points difference rises to more than 30).
 
 The emphasis must be on enjoyment. The children must be encouraged to enjoy the physical skills of running, passing and evasion, and they must be coached according to material available in the Mini Tag Coaching Course.

6. On match days against outside opposition, a coaching session should always precede the match. All matches must be used as an extension of the coaching session, with the emphasis being on the quality of performance rather than the result. Mismatches can be avoided by talking to the Coach in charge of the opposition before the game.

7. A coaching session must last no longer than 60 minutes with the addition of no more than 20 minutes devoted to match play against outside opposition.

8. Although Tag Rugby is a completely non-contact game the RFU strongly recommends the wearing of mouth guards in case of accidental collision.  Ideally mouth guards should be custom made from a dental impression of the teeth. The RFU also strongly recommends the wearing of shin guards.

9. For safety reasons coaches and referees must check that studs and other approved clothing before training sessions, games and tournaments are in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
 
10. 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 tag the ball carrier.

For further information on up to date products e mail refereeinfo@rfu.com or www.rfu.com or call free phone 0800 834551.

 STAGE 1  NON-CONTACT MINI RUGBY UNDER 8

S1.13 Where resources are available the RFU and RFUW strongly recommends the playing of Tag Rugby as an alternative to Under 8 Continuum Rugby. Note: In season 2003-2004 Mini Tag Rugby Under 8 will replace Non Contact Mini Rugby Under 8.

S1.14 The object of the game is to score a try (5 points) in accordance with the Laws of the Game.

S1.15 The game is played between teams of equal numbers of players, each team containing not more than seven players and not less than five players.

S1.16 The ball can only be passed sideways or backwards through the air, not handed to another player.  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 side, unless advantage occurs to the non offending side.

NOTE In order to keep the game flowing, referees should apply advantage wherever possible.

S1.17 THE FREE PASS

The game is started or restarted from the centre of the field, or after a penalty, with a free pass at the referee’s mark. 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 their 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 passed through the air to a team member. The referee is to ensure that the opposition are 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.

S1.18 THE TOUCH TACKLE

If a player running with the ball is touched with two hands at the waist / hip area by an opponent, the referee must shout ‘tackled’.

The tackled player must then pass the ball immediately as described in S1.16 Players from the tackler’s side must immediately start to retire towards their own goal-line until they are at least 3 metres away from the tackled player. Players from the tackler’s side within 3 metres of the tackled player must not obstruct or interfere with play in any way. If they do so, a penalty may be awarded and the game will be restarted with a free pass. Coaches are encouraged to assist the referee in encouraging players to retire.  If a player running with the ball is in the immediate act of touching the ball down for a try when touched by the tackler, a try should be awarded; otherwise the ball has to be passed. If a player, legally touched fails to pass, the ball goes to the opposing team for a free pass

GUIDANCE
Referees should always apply the advantage law whenever possible.

Referees should also be prepared to award a penalty against ball carriers who charge into opposing players.

Note 1: A tackle is performed when the ball-carrier is touched at the waist/hip area, and not above this area, by a tackler. To be considered as a valid tackle, both hands of the tackler must contact the waist/hip area of the ball-carrier simultaneously and not consecutively. If there is a distinct time difference between the contact time of the two hands, this does not constitute a tackle and play should therefore continue.

Note 2: Any player going to ground after a touch tackle must be allowed to regain his/her feet before passing the ball. If the player has been deliberately pushed to the ground the offender must be warned prior to play recommencing with a free pass.

S1.19 When the ball, or player carrying the ball, goes into touch, the game shall be restarted 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 restarting shall retire as for a free pass restart (detailed in S1.17 above).

S1.20 A player must not hand-off or fend-off an opponent in any way. A hand-off or fend-off is defined as ‘any movement of the hand, arm or ball to ward off a would-be tackler’.
Penalty: A free pass restart to the non-offending team.

Note: Players are recommended to carry the ball in two hands.

S1.21 A player may not kick the ball. If this happens, possession goes to the non-offending team for a free pass restart at the point at which the ball was kicked.

S1.22 After a try has been scored, the game restarts from the centre of the playing area with a free pass (as in S1.17 above) to the side that conceded the try. The restart shall not take place until the opponents have returned to a line 7 metres back from the centre, in the half they are defending.

S1.23 In addition to the provision of Law 10 Foul Play, a player shall not use force in touch tackling another player (such as pushing an opponent over), nor will a player carrying the ball deliberately barge or run into other players. The only contact allowed is a two handed touch on the shorts (between hips and waist) and this must be a touch not a push.

Penalty: A free pass restart to the non-offending team.

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.

S1.24 After any stoppage not covered in the Rules, the game shall restart with a free pass to the team who was moving forward or, if neither team was moving forward, to the team who was last in possession of the ball.

S1.25 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.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

1. A size 3 ball should be used.
 
2. Players must play a maximum of twelve fixtures and not more than three festivals (at least one in the Constituent Body and two others) in any one season. The emphasis must be on providing the children with an enjoyable introduction to the skills of the game. Competition is of secondary importance.
 
3. Where clubs have large squads, additional fixtures / festivals may be arranged, provided that no player plays in more than the maximum number.
 
4. At festivals no player is to play in more than 5 games.
 
  Under 8 match durations
  Fixture:  10 minutes each way • 1 game = 20 minutes
  Triangular:  71/2 minutes each way • 2 games = 30 minutes
  Festival / tournament:  5 minutes each way • Maximum of 5 games = 50 minutes
 No extra time is permitted in any match, except that added for injury time.
 
5. Games must be shortened if one side is scoring too freely (i.e. if the points difference rises to more than 30).
 
 The emphasis must be on enjoyment. The children must be encouraged to enjoy the physical skills of running, passing and evasion and they must be coached according to the RFU coaching course material.
 
6. On match days against outside opposition, a coaching session should always precede the match. All matches must be used as an extension of the coaching session, with the emphasis being on the quality of performance rather than the result. Mismatches can be avoided by talking to the Coach in charge of the opposition before the game.

7. A coaching session must last no longer than 60 minutes with the addition of no more than 20 minutes devoted to match play against outside opposition.

8. Although Touch Rugby is a completely non-contact game the RFU strongly recommends the wearing of mouth guards in case of accidental collision.  Ideally mouth guards should be custom made from a dental impression of the teeth. The RFU also strongly recommends the wearing of shin guards.

9. For safety reasons coaches and referees must check that studs and other approved clothing before training sessions, games and tournament are in accordance with the Laws of the Game.

10. As the end of the season approaches (but not. Before 1st February), the concept of the set piece play and back line may be introduced into training sessions but not into the game format until the next age grade (i.e. under 9). All players should experience all positions starting with a three player uncontested scrummage. The scrummage should be made up of one row of three players from each team. The ball is thrown 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 throwing the ball into the scrummage must remain 7 metres behind the scrummage until normal play restarts, with the exception of the scrum half, who must remain behind the rearmost foot of the scrummage, until normal play restarts. Normal play will restart when the ball has emerged from the scrummage.

The formation of the scrummage must be introduced in a progressive way following the stages described in current RFU Coaching Course materials.

11. As the end of the season approaches (but not before 1st February), tackling may be introduced into training sessions but not into the game format until the next age grade (i.e. under 9).

Tackling is a skill that needs to be taught and must be introduced progressively as shown in the current RFU Coaching Course materials.
 

There is:

 NO TACKLING
 NO SCRUMMAGE
 NO LINE-OUT
 NO KICKING
 NO HAND-OFF/FEND-OFF

For further information on up to date products e mail refereeinfo@rfu.com or www.rfu.com or call free phone 0800 834551.

 STAGE 2  MINI CONTACT RUGBY UNDER 9 & 10.

S2.1 The object of the game is to score a try (5 points) in accordance with the Laws of the Game.
 
S2.2 The game is played between teams of nine players, three (and no more) of whom will form the scrum, with the remaining six forming the back line. Positions should be interchangeable.
 
S2.3 Each side can have an agreed number of substitutes.  Substituted players can be re-used at any time. All substitutions will be when the ‘ball is dead’ or at half time and with the referee’s knowledge.

S2.4 The ball can only be passed sideways or backwards - defined as ‘towards the player’s own try line’.
 
S2.5 THE FREE PASS

 The match is started or restarted 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 their 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 passed through the air to a team member. The referee is to ensure that the opposition are 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.
 
S2.6 If the ball is passed forward or knocked on, a scrummage is awarded to the opposition.
 
S2.7 FOLLOWING A TACKLE

 Tackling is now permitted in all age groups from under 9 upwards.
 The tackler must immediately release the tackled player and get up or move away from the tackled player and the ball. The tackler must get up before playing the ball.
 
 The tackled player must immediately pass or release the ball and must get up or move away from the ball. The tackled player may put the ball on the ground in any direction, or may push the ball along the ground in any direction, except forward (towards the opposition try line), providing this is done immediately.
 
 At a tackle, or near to a tackle, other players who play the ball must do so from behind the ball and from behind the tackled player, or the tackler closest to those players’ goal-line.
 
 Note 1: Any tackle level with or above the armpit is to be considered a high tackle.
 Penalty: A free pass restart to the ball-carrier’s team
 
 Note 2: The scrag type tackle (i.e. swinging the player round by the shirt) must be considered dangerous play and must be penalised.
 Penalty: A free pass to the ball-carrier’s team.
 
On penalty restarts, a quickly taken free pass whilst the opponents are retiring is not permitted.

S2.8 SQUEEZE BALL
No player shall use the technique known or referred to as ‘Squeezeball’.
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, pushes the ball back between the legs.

Penalty:  Free pass.

 LAW NOTES: DEFINITION
 
LAW 14 BALL ON THE GROUND and
LAW 15 TACKLE: BALL CARRIER BROUGHT TO THE GROUND.
It is illegal for any player to voluntarily fall on or over a player lying on the ground with the ball in his possession, to voluntarily fall on or over players lying on the ground with the ball between them, or near them.
Penalty: Penalty kick at the place of infringement.
Additional Notes to help interpret LAWS 14 and 15.
(a) No advantage shall be played under this Law
(b) A player is assumed to have fallen voluntarily unless the referee is absolutely certain the fall was accidental.
(c) In the very rare instances when the fall is accidental, play must be stopped and a scrummage awarded. The object of this change in interpretation in Law 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 defined as "players from each team on their feet" (Law 16, Ruck; Law 17, Maul). Should the correctly formed ruck or maul then collapse, the referee must immediately act to prevent a pile-up from developing.
 
 LAW 17 – MAUL

 A maul occurs when a player carrying the ball is held by one or more opponents, and one or more of the ball-carrier’s team-mates bind on to the ball-carrier. It is helpful if the referee calls ‘maul formed’.
 All the players involved are on their feet.
 A maul ends successfully when the ball or a player with the ball leaves the maul.
 A maul ends when the ball is on the ground, or is on or over the goal-line.
 A maul ends unsuccessfully if the ball becomes unplayable or the maul collapses (not as a result of foul play) and a scrum is awarded.
 When a maul remains stationary or has stopped moving forward for more than 5 seconds, but the ball is being moved and the referee can see it, a reasonable time is allowed for the ball to emerge. If it does not emerge within a reasonable time, a scrum is ordered. It is helpful in all maul situations if the referee calls “use it or lose it” prior to awarding a scrum.
 When a maul has stopped moving forward it may start moving forward again providing it does so within 5 seconds. If the maul stops moving forward for a second time, and if the ball is being moved and the referee can see it, a reasonable time is allowed for the ball to emerge. A scrum is awarded if it does not emerge within a reasonable time.
 
 Scrum following maul
 The team not in possession of the ball when the maul began will throw the ball in at the subsequent scrum.   If the referee cannot decide which team had possession, the team moving forward before the maul stopped throws in the ball. If neither team was moving forward, the attacking team throws in the ball.
 
 Summary
 At least three players form the maul; the ball-carrier plus at least one player from each side in contact, all on their feet.
 
 LAW 16 – RUCK

 A ruck occurs where one or more players from each team, who are on their feet, in physical contact, 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.
 A ruck ends successfully when the ball leaves the ruck, or when the ball is on or over the goal-line.
 A ruck ends unsuccessfully when the ball becomes unplayable and a scrum is awarded.
 
 Scrum following ruck
 The team that was moving forward immediately before the ball became unplayable in the ruck throws in the ball. If neither team was moving forward, or if the referee cannot decide which team was moving forward before the ball became unplayable in the ruck, the team that was moving forward before the ruck began throws in the ball. If neither team was moving forward, then the attacking team throws in the ball. Before the referee blows the whistle for a scrum, the referee allows a reasonable amount of time for the ball to emerge. If the ruck stops moving, or if the referee decides that the ball will probably not emerge within a reasonable time, the referee must order a scrum.
 
 Summary
 The ball is on the ground with at least one player from each team on their feet, close to the ball, and in physical contact. It is helpful if the referee calls “ruck formed”.
 
S2.9 If, after a tackle or ruck, the ball becomes unplayable, a scrum is awarded. The scrum is awarded to the team that was moving forward immediately prior to the tackle or ruck or, if no team was moving forward, to the attacking team (the team in the opponents’ half of the pitch).

S2.10 THE UNCONTESTED SCRUM (UNDER 9 ONLY)

 The scrum will be made up of one row of three players (and no more) from each team, i.e. a prop on either side of the hooker. The team awarded the scrum will throw the ball into the scrum and must be allowed to win it without contest. Opponents cannot push or strike for the ball. If they do, a free pass restart is awarded to the team throwing the ball into the scrum. With these exceptions, the Laws of the Game pertaining to the scrum will apply.
 
 The players from each team will bind together approximately half a metre apart; each prop will then touch the upper arm of his opponent, and then pause before the engagement. The referee will talk the players through the engagement procedure in the sequence Crouch, Touch, Pause and Engage. On the grounds of safety, it is important that the referee manages the engagement of every scrum in this way.
 
S2.11 THE CONTESTED SCRUM (UNDER 10 ONLY).

The scrummage will be made up of one row of three players (and no more) from each team, i.e. a prop on either side of a hooker.  With these exceptions the laws of the game pertaining to the scrummage will apply.

The players from each team will bind together approximately one metre apart, each prop will then touch the upper arm of his opponent, then pause before the engagement, the referee will talk the players through the engagement procedure of Crouch, Touch, Pause and Engage. On the grounds of safety it is important that the referee manages the engagement of every scrum in this way.

Under no circumstances is the scrum to be:
 Pushed more than 1.5 metres towards either try line
Penalty: A free pass at the original spot against the side that has pushed the scrum.

 Wheeled more than 45 degrees
 Penalty: If a team intentionally wheels a scrum, a free pass will be awarded against that side. If the scrum is wheeled more than 45 degrees without a free pass award, the scrum will be reset with the same team throwing the ball in.
 
S2.12 SCRUM SAFETY GUIDANCE FOR REFEREES AND COACHES

 Front rows must not be allowed to charge at each other
 If they start to engage too close together and with necks and backs bent, they must be stopped and the scrum reformed
 Props’ body positions must be parallel to the touchline (not boring in)
 There must be no downward pressure exerted by hands or arms
 If the scrum collapses, the whistle must immediately be blown and the appropriate penalty awarded, or the scrum reset
 If a player is persistently involved in collapsing or illegal binding he/she must be replaced
 If a player’s lack of technique or strength is a danger then he/she must be replaced
 Shoulders must always be above the level of the hips.
 In contested scrums, if one side is obviously stronger and more experienced than the other, the referee must advise the stronger side to reduce their push to take this into account. If this cannot be done, the referee must order uncontested scrums in the interests of safety.
 Any player at any stage in a scrum, ruck or maul who has or causes an opponent to have, his shoulders lower than his hip joint must immediately be penalised by awarding a Free Kick. The object of this interpretation is to try to prevent a collapse of scrum, ruck or maul. It is to help the coach to coach good technique and the referee to penalise bad technique. Any player who has his shoulders lower than his hip joint can only move downwards unless he has very great strength. The force through the shoulders should be directed forwards and upwards; all players should remain on their feet, thus preventing a pile-up and possible injury.

S2.13 The team awarded the scrum will throw the ball in. The back line of the team not throwing the ball into the scrum must remain 7 metres behind the scrum until the ball emerges or the scrum-half places his hands on it. Until this happens, the opposing scrum-half must remain directly behind his scrum
 
S2.14 If the ball or player carrying the ball goes out of play, a line-out will take place at the point at which the ball or players crossed the touchline. A quick throw-in is not permitted.

S2.15 THE UNCONTESTED LINE-OUT (UNDER 9 ONLY)

 The line-out will be made up of 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 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 in the line-out.
 In the uncontested line-out, the team throwing the ball in must be allowed to catch and win the ball without any interference from the opposition. The opposition are not allowed to compete for the ball until the line-out ends (see below).
 The line-out 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) and not beyond it, i.e. the ball must be played by one of the players within the line-out. Should the ball be thrown beyond 7 metres, the opposition will be awarded the throw.  Should the opposition then throw beyond 7 metres, a scrum will be awarded to the side originally throwing in. 
 All ‘peeling off’ movements must be close to and parallel with the line-out. 
 Players must keep moving.
 Lifting/supporting is prohibited at this level (i.e. a player may not bind to a jumper until he/she returns to the ground).
 
S2.16 THE CONTESTED LINE-OUT (UNDER 10 ONLY)

 The line-out will be made up of 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 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 line-out.
 The line-out 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) and not beyond it, i.e. the ball must be played by one of the players within the line-out.
 Should the ball be thrown beyond 7 metres, the opposition will be awarded the throw.  Should the opposition then throw beyond 7 metres, a scrum will be awarded to the side originally throwing in. 
 All ‘peeling off’ movements must be close to and parallel with the line-out. 
 Players must keep moving.
 Lifting/supporting is prohibited at this level (i.e. a player may not bind to a jumper until he/she returns to the ground).
 
 LAW 19 LINEOUT
 
 The line-out begins when the ball leaves the hands of the player throwing it in. The line-out ends when the ball or a player carrying it leaves the line-out. This includes the following:
 
 When the ball is thrown or knocked out of the line-out
 When a line-out player hands the ball to a player who is peeling close to and parallel to the line
 When a ruck or maul develops in a line-out, and both feet of all the players in the ruck or maul move beyond the line-of-touch
 When the ball becomes unplayable in a line-out. Play restarts with a scrum.

S2.17 The offside line for all players not participating in the line-out (all players other than those described under Rules S2.14 or S2.15 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 line-out has ended.
 
S2.18 Offside in general play shall be penalised in accordance with the Laws of the Game. A player offside in general play is to be penalised for being offside unless that player is making an obvious attempt to return to an onside position.
 Penalty: A free pass restart to the non-offending side.
 
S2.19 A player must not hand-off or fend-off an opponent in any way. A hand or fend-off is defined as ‘any movement of the hand, arm or ball to ward off a would-be tackler’.
 Penalty: A free pass restart to the opposition.
 
 Players are recommended to carry the ball in two hands.
 
S2.20 After a try has been scored, the game restarts from the centre with a free pass (as in S2.5 above). The restart shall not take place until the opponents have returned to a line 7 metres back from the centre, in the half they are defending.
 
S2.21 A player may not kick the ball. If this happens, possession goes to the non-offending team for a free pass restart at the point at which the ball was kicked.
 
S2.22 Following an infringement for:
 
 Offside
 High or late tackle
 Hand-off/fend-off
 Kicking
 Obstruction
 
 The game is restarted with a free pass to the non-offending team. The offending team must retire 7 metres from the point of restart, towards their own goal-line.
 
S2.23 After any stoppage not covered in the Rules, the game shall restart with a scrummage to the team moving forward, or, if neither team was moving forward, to the team who was last in possession of the ball.
 
S2.24 A match will be made up of two halves, each of not more than 15 minutes duration. During the interval, coaches must take adequate time to talk to, encourage, coach and explain the game to the players.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

1. Under 9s should use a size 3 ball. Under 10s should use a size 4 ball.

2. The development of all contact (contested or uncontested scrums and lineouts) must be introduced using current coaching manual.

3. Tackling is a skill that needs to be taught and must be introduced progressively as shown in the current RFU Coaching Course materials.

4. The formation of the scrummage must be introduced in a progressive way following the stages described in current RFU Coaching Course materials.

No person involved in the teaching or coaching of the Game may teach or coach players involved in a match at any age level from U18 downwards or encourage such players to use the technique known or referred to as ‘Squeezeball’.  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, pushes the ball back between the legs.
 
5. Players must play a maximum of twelve fixtures and not more than three festivals (at least one in the Constituent Body and two others) in any one season. The emphasis must be on providing the children with an enjoyable introduction to the skills of the game. Competition is of secondary importance.
 
6. Where Clubs have large squads, additional fixtures/festivals may be arranged, provided that no player plays in more than the maximum number.
 
7. At festivals no player is to play in more than 5 games.
 
 Under 9/under 10 match durations
 Fixture:  15 minutes each way • 1 match = 30 minutes
 Triangular:  10 minutes each way • 2 matches = 40 minutes
 Festival/tournament:  6 minutes each way • Maximum of 5 matches = 60 minutes
 No extra time is permitted in any match, except that added for injury time.
 
8. Games must be shortened if one side is scoring too freely (i.e. if the points difference rises to more than 30).
 
9. The emphasis must be on enjoyment. The children must be encouraged to enjoy the physical skills of running, passing and evasion, and they must be coached according to material available in the Mini/Midi Foundation or Level 1 coaching courses.

10. On match days against outside opposition, a coaching session should always precede the match. All matches must be used as an extension of the coaching session, with the