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Code for Players

  • Play for enjoyment and become part of the rugby family.

  • Respect the "Game of Rugby" and play within the laws of the Game.

  • Accept the referee's decision and let your captain or coach ask any relevant questions.

  • Play with control. Do not lose your temper.

  • Always do your best and be committed to the game, your team and your club.

  • Be a "good sport". Applaud all good play whether by your team or the opposition.

  • Respect your opponent. Treat all players as you would like to be treated. Do not "bully" or take advantage of any player.

  • Rugby is a team sport and make sure you cooperate with your coach; team mates and members of your club.

  • Remember that the goals of the game are to have fun, improve your skills and feel good.

  • At the end of the match thank your opponents and the referee for the match.

  • Always remember that you owe a duty of care to your opponents. Tackle hard but fairly, do not intend to hurt your opponent.

  • Winning and losing is part of sport: Win with humility, lose with dignity.

  • As part of the team it is important that you attend training regularly and listen to your coach and help your team.

  • As a team sport it is important to understand that all members are important to the team!

  • Remember you are representing your team, club, family and the Game of Rugby.

Code for Parents

  • Remember, young people play rugby for their enjoyment, not only yours.

  • Encourage your child to always play by the Laws of the Game.

  • Teach young children that honest endeavour is as important as winning, so that the result of each game is accepted without disappointment.

  • Help young people to work towards skill improvement and good sportsmanship.

  • Set a good example by applauding good play on both sides.

  • Never ridicule, humiliate or shout at young players for making a mistake or losing a match.

  • Do not place emphasis on winning at all costs.

  • Do not force an unwilling child to participate in the playing of rugby. If the child is to play, he/she will do so in good time through your encouragement.

  • Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from rugby.

  • As a spectator do not use profane language or harass referees, coaches or players.

  • Do not publicly question the referees' judgement and never their honesty.

  • Recognise the value and importance of volunteer referees and coaches.

  • Identify and acknowledge the good qualities of the Game of Rugby and uphold these values.

  • Remember you and your child's contribution to the Game of Rugby is very important to the IRFU and be proud of your contribution.

  • Understand the value of team sport and the importance thereof.

Code for Coaches

  • Remember that as a coach of an "age grade team" you are to act in "loco parentis" and to that extent your duty of care is more onerous than that of a coach to an adult team.

  • Lead by example young people need a coach whom they respect.

  • Be generous with your praise when it is deserved. Never ridicule or shout at players for making mistakes or losing a match.

  • Teach your players that the Laws of the Game are mutual agreements which no one should evade or break.

  • Prepare young players for inter-class and inter-school activities.

  • Be reasonable in your demands on the players' time, energy and enthusiasm.

  • Ensure that all players participate in matches. The "average" players require and deserve equal time.

  • Remember that young players play for fun and enjoyment and that skill learning and playing for fun have priority over highly structured competition. Winning is not the only objective.

  • Develop player and team respect for the ability of opponents, as well as for the judgement of referees and opposing coaches.

  • Insist on fair play and disciplined play. Do not tolerate foul play, fighting or foul language. Be prepared to take off an offending player.

  • Encourage young players to develop basic skills and sportsmanship. Avoid over specialisation in positional play during their formative years.

  • Set realistic goals for the team and individual players and do not push young players into adult-like competitions.

  • Create a safe and enjoyable environment in which to train and play.

  • Do not overburden younger players with too much information.

  • Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed on sound coaching principles and methods, and on the principles of growth and development of young people.

  • Be aware of the effect you have on growing children.

  • Never criticise the referee and touch judges during or after a match in front of players or spectators.

  • Always thank the match officials and if they have made decisions which require clarification, discuss the problems after everyone has changed.

  • Seek and follow the advice of a doctor in determining when an injured player is ready to play again.

  • Ensure that proper equipment and facilities are available at all times.

  • Be responsible and ensure you uphold the ethos of the game and the IRFU.

  • Attend coaching courses.

  • Support the Code of Ethics and all policies regarding Children in Sport.

  • Ensure you and your players are proud of your team, club and efforts during the season.

Code for Spectators

  • Remember that although young people play organised rugby they are not "miniature internationals".

  • Be on your best behaviour and lead by example. Do not use profane language or harass referees, players or coaches.

  • Applaud good play by the visiting team as well as your own.

  • Show respect for your team's opponents. Without them there would not be a match.

  • Condemn the use of violence in all forms at every opportunity.

  • Verbal abuse of players or referees cannot be accepted in any shape or form.

  • Players or referees are not fair targets for ignorant behaviour.

  • Encourage young players to play by the Laws of the Game.

  • Spectators can contribute to the enjoyment of the event and all involved.

  • Be proud of your club and the Game of Rugby.

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