Conduct Code

Rugby is a game of long traditions which have developed over time into a number of values that guide the way the game is played and how players, coaches, officials and supporters conduct themselves.

At its core, rugby is a physical game and a fundamental value is one of respect - for opponents, teammates and officials. Rugby for the vast majority, remains a sport played for enjoyment. You will find these values embedded in the codes of conduct and the minis terms and conditions below.

Parents' Code

Do not force an unwilling child to participate - its supposed to be for them, and you may put them off rugby forever.
Encourage your child to understand and play within the rules.
Teach your child that taking part and trying your best are more important than winning.
Focus your child on practicing their skills, sportsmanship and being part of a team. Winning isn't everything and not everyone can score the winning try.
Support and encourage your child - never criticize them for making mistakes. Console them for losing, but encourage them to try harder next time.
Set an example for sportsmanship - applaud good play by all.
Never publicly criticize a referee or linesman - there is no place for 'touchline rage' in mini rugby.
Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children's sport. Report anything to the Child Protection Officer or Chairman.
Help the club function properly by turning up on time with the appropriate kit. Be prepared to help out if asked.
Support your coaches - they are giving up their time to train your child. If you have any issues with the way a coach is performing, talk to them first. Refer any issues to an Officer of the Club.

Coaches' Code

Don't overload young players with demands, technical information and tactics - remember they are children and they are playing rugby for fun.
Don't over play the better players - include everyone.
Players develop at different times and in different ways - make allowances for their physical, emotional and mental maturity and development.
Winning isn't everything - teach your players to enjoy taking part and performing to the best of their ability. Encourage each player to reach his or her potential.
Never abuse, yell, criticise or ridicule children for making mistakes or losing a game.
Be organised - establish a structure for the season, prepare a coaching plan for each session, have the appropriate kit. Above all, communicate to players, parents and fellow coaches to set expectations.
Make sure players develop an understanding of the rules and laws of the game, that they respect opponents, teammates, coaches and officials.
Never question an official's judgement or honesty.
Ensure players and parents behaviour is appropriate and in keeping with the spirit of the game and the expectations of the Club.

Players' Code

Play to enjoy rugby - always try your best to improve your skills and play well.
Play within the rules and laws of the game.
Never argue with referees or coaches - their decision is final, (even if you think that they are wrong).
Rugby is a team game - do your best for your team mates and don't try to grab all that glory for yourself.
Don't show off, lose your cool, pick on other players or generally misbehave - it's not part of rugby.
If you lose, accept it with good grace and try harder next time.
Respect good play - from opponents or your team.
Help team mates, opponents, coaches and officials - you can't play rugby on your own.

Video & Photography Guidelines

Also see Appendix of the RFU's Child Protection Policy
While the RFU/RFUW recognises that publicity and pictures of young people enjoying rugby are essential to promote the sport and a healthy lifestyle, the following rules should be observed:
1. Ensure parents/guardians/young people have granted their consent for the taking and publication of photographic images and have signed and returned the Parent/Guardian and Young Person Permission Form;
2. All young people must be appropriately dressed for the activity taking place;
3. Photography or recording should focus on the activity rather than a particular young person and personal details which might make a young person vulnerable, such as their exact address, should never be revealed;
4. Where an individual has achieved success in the game (e.g. when selected for representative side or showing triumph over adversity), permission must be gained from a parent/guardian and the young person to use photographs/recordings and relevant details;
5. Where possible, to reflect the RFU/RFUW Equity Policy, photographs/recordings should represent the diverse range of young people participating in rugby;
6. Anyone taking photographs or recording at any rugby event must have a valid reason for doing so and seek the permission of the organisers/persons in charge;
7. They should make themselves known to the event organisers/persons in charge and be able to identify themselves if requested during the course of the event;
8. All concerns regarding inappropriate or intrusive photography should be reported in confidence to the RFU Equity and Ethics Manager via the rugby club or Constituent Body Welfare Manager.