FAQs

What if I - or my child - have never played rugby before?
Rugby requires specific skills just like any other sport. In fact, some of our best rugby players started playing other sports first and then converted to rugby. Skills learnt in any other sports will help you learn the basic rugby skills and allow you to quickly adapt to the new game. For the child aged 5 to 12 years, there is a rugby pathway that allows them to be gradually introduced to the game of rugby. This has been developed to suit the development stages of each age group.

When should my child start playing rugby?
Your child can begin playing rugby around 5 years of age through the Junior Player Pathway. Many players also start rugby at an older age. Even Wallabies, Chris Latham and Justin Harrison didn't begin rugby until they were 18 years of age.

Can my child play in an older age-group with his brother/friends?
Players are encouraged to play with players of their own age. As this is not always possible, players are permitted to play one year above their age, under the Two-Year Window policy. For example, a player participating in an Under 12 competition should be turning 11 or 12 years of age during the calendar year.

I thought you had to be big to play rugby?
No. Rugby requires many varied body shapes and sizes to play the game. From shorter, strong front rowers to tall far reaching second rowers and the fast, nimble outside backs. There is a crucial position for everyone in rugby. Rugby is, however, a contact sport. It is therefore critical that correct tackling techniques are coached and learnt, so that all shapes and sizes coming into contact with each other can tackle in a safe and correct manner. The ARU's SmartRugby program is operational throughout Australia to minimise the risk of injury.

What gear does my child need before they play the game?
Mouth guards and football boots are the major requirements. Additional padding includes shoulder pads, head gear and shin pads which are optional and offer limited protection in contact situations.

I want to be more involved in my child's rugby, how can I become a coach or a referee?
Make contact with the Club Coaching Co-ordinator to see if there is a position available for a coach or referee. Go to the coaching and refereeing section of this website to find out more.

Why do I need to register my child?
Registration gives players access to the Australian Rugby Union Insurance Scheme. It also gives the ARU a clear understanding on who is playing the game of rugby union. This assists in organising competitions and determining where the game can be developed. All club members, including coaches and referees also have to fill out a ARU membership form and be registered, so they can access the insurance scheme.

Who makes the Laws of the game?
The governing body that makes the Laws is the International Rugby Board (IRB). They accept submissions for law changes from all member Unions, of which Australia is one.