RFU Internal Memo about Surrey RFU decision. Message from Steve Grainger: Mini rugby We have received a large number of enquiries following media coverage about mini rugby festivals organised by Surrey CB, with the clear implication that the RFU is encouraging a move away from competitive rugby for children. The initial reporting caused understandable confusion until it was clarified through multiple media channels. We thought it would be helpful to further underline the RFU’s current position. As you will be aware, over the past few years the RFU has been developing the New Rules of Play, based on significant research into child development. In autumn 2013, a series of Blueprint Roadshows were undertaken across the country, to which Constituent Bodies and clubs were invited in order to discuss and express their views on the future direction of mini & youth rugby nationwide, including the implications for competitions. A strong theme that came across at the roadshows was the importance of competitive rugby as an integral part of a child’s development, acknowledging that this has to be appropriate to their wants, needs and capabilities. Following these roadshows, Surrey CB met with its clubs and discussed the format for its own CB-organised mini festivals. The clubs decided to change the format with the aim of improving the playing experience for all children taking part, in line with the New Rules of Play. Surrey CB subsequently issued their guidance to its clubs to explain the changes, which will take the form of whole age group festivals. The teams will play round-robin fixtures with children still experiencing winning and losing. There will be no overall festival winners. Clubs are being encouraged to bring their whole mixed-ability age group to the festivals and the emphasis is on the development of individual skills and enjoyment for all participants. It is important to note that this guidance only applies to the mini festivals organised by Surrey CB and not to other festivals hosted by clubs or other bodies in Surrey. They will review the new format at the end of the season. There is no suggestion of swapping players between opposing teams, but it is important to ensure that all children have an opportunity to play, whatever their ability. Scores will be regularly reviewed to ensure that games remain competitive, while offering every child fair game time. This is in accordance with current RFU regulations which state that “matches must be brought to an end if at Under 7s to Under 12s the try difference rises to more than six” (Regulation 15.14.4 (a)). Regards, Steve Grainger Rugby Development Director
Posted on: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 13:57:40 +0000
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