Parental Advice 2011/2012

Come and see and support - The best way to understand how mini-rugby works is to come along and see. You will be very welcome on either match or training days.

Rugby rules for children - Rugby for children is not the same physical game you see on the Six Nations tournament. Instead the rules are set out so that up to under 8's play a non-contact version with the emphasis on ball skills and passing. The WRU have set out a 'Rugby Pathway' that develops the game of rugby and the skills involved year on year as your child moves from one age range to the next. As children get older, additional elements from the adult game are introduced gradually, matching the physical development of the players. The size of the pitch and the number of players is gradually increased as they get older. This approach allows children to enjoy competitive sport, learn skills and develop team spirit within a simpler and less physical game than the adults play, but nonetheless enjoyable to play and exciting to watch.

The Referee helps - An important factor is that the referees act as both coach and referee during the matches. It is typical to hear a mini-rugby referee firstly congratulate the two sides on the play, then announce and explain what went wrong before explaining how play will restart. The referees are of course well aware that safety is paramount.

What kit is needed? - For training, your child needs a rugby style shirt and shorts, long socks and boots. Ideally the shirt and shorts are cotton, rather than the synthetic fabric typically used for soccer. Boots with screw-in studs are best, as you can get special rugby-studs. For matches, team shirts are provided by the club.

Please note, your child will get muddy! There are showers at the club but many children seem to prefer getting cleaned up at home.

**ASTHMA PUMPS - If your child suffers asthma, a pump should be available for training sessions and during a match. 'Other' players' asthma pump cannot and should not be used to give relief. Any player with asthma should have their own pump at hand so that if needs be it can be used. We advise that every asthma sufferer brings a spare his asthma relief pump to every training session and match. Each player should label their personal pump clearly. Each pump should be kept in a sealable plastic bag and kept in a box or in the team medical bag for the session or match.

Coaches must be made aware of players with medical conditions.

Match days - Parents', their kindness and their cars are relied upon to carry players to matches, but come along, participate with your child's sport. Help encourage and enjoy watching them and team mates develop and make new friends.

There is always a warm-up before the match which often takes the form of a short training session. The matches are shorter than the adult game and many substitutions are allowed. The team coaches do their best to make sure that everyone gets some time on the pitch.

Sometimes three clubs arrange to play at one venue. In this case, the children will play two shorter matches.

Good news: It is a tradition that after matches, the home club provides free food for the players (and coaches). This generally makes the children happy!

Good Practice - It is absolutely vital particularly during the development phases of young players in the playing of the game, that Acknowledged Standards of Sportsmanship are encouraged and maintained. The following elements are therefore to be regarded as the minimum standards necessary to ensure that rugby football in Wales is played by young players in a manner befitting the National heritage and traditions of the Welsh Game. Coaches, players and spectators should therefore:

Display courtesy, friendliness and sportsmanship to the opposing team and the referee before and after the game.
Applaud the opposition for good play.
Deplore foul play.

Young players value the fun and enjoyment of the game and their membership of a team. While they should always be encouraged to play with a strong, competitive spirit, they must also be coached to play within the laws and rules of the game and always with respect for their opponents. Coaches of young players should encourage and concentrate on good performance. Although everyone likes to win, results are of secondary importance.

Young players only enjoy competition on their terms and when it becomes too serious, or intense, the outcomes can diminish their enthusiasm for the game.

Player Responsibilities:

Play Rugby within the Laws and the Sporting Spirit of the Game.
Support and co-operate with fellow team members to ensure the team plays to its maximum capability.
Respect the opposition without whom the match would not take place.
Respect the referee and accept all decisions without dissension.

Coach Responsibilities:

Develop in all players a love of, and interest in, Rugby.
Develop each player's maximum potential.
Encourage and boost the confidence of all players.
DO NOT ridicule or over criticise mistakes or individuals.
Ensure each coaching session is well prepared with the coaching emphasis being placed on the development and acquisition of skill, decision making and an understanding of the game.
Maintain the highest standards of personal discipline and courtesy during matches irrespective of the result.

Parent Responsibilities:

Do not force an unwilling child to participate in rugby.
Encourage your child to play by the Laws / Rules, and the Code of Conduct as set down by the Rugby Club.

Many thanks - Rhys G Roberts (Vice Chairman - Juniors)