Information & FAQ'S
- Details
- Last Updated on Monday, 10 October 2011 13:26
Introduction
Young players are introduced to rugby in 3 clearly defined stages (referred to as Mini-Midi Rugby), so that by U13, players have acquired the skills and knowledge required to participate in the full 15-a-side game.
Each stage has its own rules distinguishing it from the adult game and should not be considered as being merely a shortened version of senior rugby. This progression has been structured to accommodate the changing developmental abilities of children as they mature with the emphasis being on the improvement of individual skills through purposeful and enjoyable activity. Provision is made for testing these skills in match situations during a limited number of competitive fixtures and festivals/tournaments each season.
The three stages are:
Stage 1: Mini Tag Rugby - played by Under 7 and Under 8 age grades
Stage 2: Mini Rugby - played by Under 9 and Under 10 age grades
Stage 3: Midi Rugby - played by Under 11 and Under 12 age grades
Players then move up to youth rugby - U13's to U19's (School year 8+) played to RFU Laws with variations for each age group, distinguishing it from the adult game.
Girl’s rugby currently differs slightly, whereby they can play mixed rugby, (through the 3 stages as above) up to Under 12. At Under 13 (school year 8) they can continue to play mixed rugby for one more year and/or play in the RFUW Lower Age Band (classed as U15. i.e. school years 8 - 10). At U16 girls then play in the Upper Age Band (classed as U18, i.e. school year 11+). The game is played to RFU U15/U18 Laws with RFUW variations.
Please note that currently Holt does not run a youth Girls team due to lack of numbers. Girls up to the age of 12 are very welcome in their relevant age groups playing alongside boys.
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Holt Rugby Club has a policy of encouraging all their players to play sporting rugby and does not support or encourage a win at all costs attitude'.
When are the Training Times?
First Sunday in September through to Last Sunday in April.
Training starts at 10:30 a.m.
Start and finish times will vary on match days.
On arrival please report to you appropriate coach
Please note:
Coaches are not responsible for youngsters who arrive earlier than requested unless the parent/guardian has Okayed it with the coach
Are the coaches qualified?
We have a growing number of experienced and trained coaches, all of whom are understanding and aware of the needs of developing children. All coaches also have the opportunity to further their coaching qualifications when necessary.
Are the coaches and volunteers cleared by the Criminal Records Bureau?
The RFU now insists that all coaches and relevant volunteers are Criminal Record Bureau cleared (enhanced status) to enable them to work with children.
How do I register?
All members must register with the club to be able to play.
You will be given a registration form to complete either on your first day or after your taster sessions. Once you have completed the form you can give it, along with payment, to the Membership Secretary or your coach
How much does it cost to join?
New members are entitled to 3 taster sessions before being asked to pay.
The subscription fee for 2011 - 2012 is:
£40 (per player)
There is no weekly charge
Cheques are made payable to Holt RFC and please put the age group on the back.
Any problems with paying or queries regarding subscriptions, please speak to the Membership Secretary in confidence.
Completed forms and subscriptions can be posted to:
Sara Allen (Membership Secretary)
2 Brick Kiln Cottages, Kerdiston, Reepham.NR10 4RR.
The Clubhouse
Open every Sunday.Parents, family and friends are welcome to drop into the clubhouse for a warm by the fire, Or why not get yourself a nice hot drink and something to eat such as a hotdog, chicken burger or chips the choice is yours.
At midday the bar is also open.
What kit do I need?
Players should come adequately equipped to cope with the likely weather conditions. Shirt and shorts are fine for warm weather. When it's cold and wet,layers of warm and waterproof clothing are essential (waterproof top/tracksuit bottoms or similar, hat and gloves). Boots with studs that are kite marked and recommended for rugby. A gumshield is required for older children playing contact rugby (under 9’s upwards). Protective clothing e.g. headguards, shoulder pads, may be worn if they conform to IRB (International Rugby Board) Regulations.
Black Rugby shirt, shorts and black socks are required.
Match Kit - club shirts are provided on match days.
Where can I get Kit?
Training shirts, shorts, socks etc can be purchased in our Kit Store which is open every Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. then 12:00p.m. – 12:30p.m.
We also have a 2nd hand boot exchange where you can exchange you boots that are too small for some that fit. Or you can purchase a pair from only £5.
When are fixtures played?
Fixtures are played on Sunday mornings,from September through to April only. The fixture list is arranged in accordance with the RFU & RFUW Youth Structured Season by our fixtures secretary. The fixture list is posted on the notice board and the website. If you would like a copy, please ask your coach.
Fixtures are added to the list throughout the season or due to unforeseen circumstances cancelled at short notice, so check with your coach for the latest information.
Health and Safety
The objective of playing rugby is to have fun and that means being warm, safe and properly kitted out.
Set out below are some key points regarding safety.
- We strongly recommend that gumshields/mouthguards are worn for training and matches (preferably one prepared by your dentist).
- No jewellery to be worn
- No chewing gum.
- Wear kite marked Studs recommended for rugby.
- Regularly examine boots and replace any worn or missing studs.
- Severe weather clothing. All players should come adequately equipped (warm/waterproof kit, hats, gloves) to cope with the weather conditions that can occur during the winter months. If players are cold and wet they are unlikely to enjoy themselves and may be put off rugby.
- If not already done so, all players should have a preventative course of tetanus injections. GPs should be able to advice.
- Injuries. We all hope that no player gets hurt. If, unfortunately they do, first aid will be administered at the site and the parent/guardian notified. If in the opinion of the first aider the child needs hospital treatment, appropriate arrangements will be made. If a parent/guardian is unavailable, the club will ensure the child is accompanied and the parent/guardian notified as soon as possible.
- Where concussion is sustained the player will be removed from the field and irrespective of age, will have a compulsory 21 days off rugby.
- Medical or other conditions. Parents/guardians must notify coaches of any conditions, e.g. asthma, diabetes, which may affect a player during a session.
- Under no circumstances will a club member/coach accept responsibility for securing or administering a child's medication.
- Sorry no dogs are allowed on the grassed areas on Sunday mornings or any other time.
Can parents help at the club?
Holt RFC is run entirely by volunteers. It thrives because club members devote time and energy towards making it enjoyable and successful. In the Youth and Mini Section we are particularly grateful for any help you may be able to offer.
If you are able to help, just speak to your team coach or Mel Robson (volunteer Coordinator) who will direct you to the relevant people.
If you think you may have any skills or special knowledge that could be an asset to the club as well then please let us know.
Does the club run any rugby courses?
Players are given the opportunity to attend player development courses which are run by the RFU. These may be held at the rugby club or other clubs and venues.
If any parents are interested in taking up coaching, we can arrange to send you on a coaching course which is appropriate to the age group you wish to coach.
Does the club have a Child Protection Policy?
The care and supervision of youngsters taking part in our training sessions is paramount. Under RFU guidelines we have adopted a Code of Conduct and a Child Protection Policy. The codes of conduct and photo/video images policy are printed in the back of this booklet. The Child Protection Policy encompasses various policies, as well as guidelines and procedures relating to disclosure, suspicions and allegations of abuse within or outside the rugby club. The policies are posted on the clubhouse notice board and on the website. If you would like copies, please ask.
Please do not hesitate to contact either a member of the senior coaching staff or the Child Protection Officer if you have any questions.
