RFU Good Parent/Carers Code

In Rugby Union, coaches and administrators both fully acknowledge that parents are an integral part of the
partnership, which ensures that young players enjoy their involvement in the sport and experience an
environment in which they can flourish.

IN RUGBY UNION AS A PARENT/CARER YOU MUST:

Remember that young people play rugby for their own enjoyment not that of their parents’.
Encourage your child to understand and play within the rules
Encourage young people to play – do not force an unwilling child to participate – its supposed to be for them,
and you may put them off rugby forever
Focus your child on practicing their skills, effort, sportsmanship and being part of a team. Winning isn’t
everything and not everyone can score the winning try.
Teach your child that taking part and trying your best are more important than winning
Be realistic about the young players’ ability; do not push them towards a level that they are not capable of
achieving.
Provide positive verbal feedback both in training and during the game. Support and encourage your child –
never criticize them for making mistakes. Console them for losing, but encourage them to try harder next time.
Remember that persistent, negative messages will adversely affect the players’ and referee’s performance
and attitude.
Always support the rugby club in their efforts to eradicate loud, coarse and abusive behaviour from the game.
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.
Remember young people learn much by example.
Always show appreciation of good play by ALL young players both from your own club and the opposition.
Respect decisions made by the match officials and encourage the young players to do likewise
For children aged under 12, that a named responsible adult remains with their child at all times
IN RUGBY UNION AS A PARENT/CARER, YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO:
Be familiar with the coaching and training programme in order that they can ensure that their child is fully
involved and the coaches are aware of their availability.
Be familiar with the teaching and coaching methods used by observing the session in which your child
participates.
Be aware that the club has a duty of care and therefore, where appropriate, assist coaches with the
supervision of the young players, particularly where numbers are large and there is a need to transport
youngsters to away games.
Be involved with club activities and share your expertise.
Share concerns, if you have them, with club officials.
Be familiar with the ‘’Good Coach’s Code’’. In particular that :
Coaches should recognise the importance of fun and enjoyment when coaching young players.
Coaches should keep winning and losing in perspective, encouraging young players to behave with dignity in all circumstances.