Mini Rugby (LTPD Stage 1)

The ethos of mini rugby is to foster and develop young players (boys & girls) of all ability in the game of rugby in a safe, non competitive, enjoyable environment through activities which ensure progressive skill development for all participants in line with the IRFU Long Term Player Development (LTPD) pathway, Child Welfare Policy and Traditions of Rugby Union.

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Child Welfare

All volunteers involved with mini rugby (in any capacity) must read the IRFU Child Welfare Policy Document and sign the Declaration of Intent. The signed copy of the Declaration must be handed to the Club Child Welfare Officer or School Games Master for record keeping in the club or school. Clubs / Schools are responsible to ensure that all their volunteers involved in age grade rugby adhere to all aspects of the IRFU policy on Child Welfare.

Code of Conduct

All participants in Mini Rugby are to adhere to all aspects of the IRFU Code of Conduct for Players / Coaches / Parents and Spectators.

Fixtures

From the start of the 2009 season all competitions (leagues / cups & blitzes ending with play-off matches or finals) are not allowed and fixtures must be arranged according to the National Festival Day format. All events must be registered with the respective Branch prior to taking place and all fixtures events, including matches involving teams from other Unions, must adhere to the IRFU Mini Rugby regulations.

Festivals/ Events and Blitz Days - Branch approved

May only be arranged by application to the respective Branch Mini Rugby Committee. Age limit and stages must be confirmed prior to the start of event and clear indications should accompany all invitations. Club coaches / managers must be able to give proof of eligibility (Festival/ Event or Blitz day registration form) before his/her team's first match in the event.

Before the start of the event a referees/ coaches briefing must take place to clarify all arrangements e.g. stages, format of play and safety. Should there be any concerns over safety (e.g. ability to scrum) matches will then be played at the next lower stage.

Eligibility - Mini Rugby is a participation sport

Date of eligibility for participants is the 1st January (see Regulations Document for full guidelines).

Players playing in a higher age category

Written permission must be obtained from the Branch Youth Committee prior to players playing in a higher age category.

Registration

It is the responsibility of clubs to ensure all their players are properly registered with the Club, Branch and IRFU.

Correspondence

Any correspondence regarding Mini Rugby must be directed to the Branch Mini Rugby Committee.

Maximum playing time

Consideration must be given to clubs / teams with small numbers and or no reserves to prevent / avoid exhaustion and or the risk of injuries.