Code of Ethics
All volunteers involved with mini rugby (in any capacity) must read the IRFU Code of Ethics and sign the Declaration of Intent. (The signed copy of the Declaration must be handed into the club Youth Co-coordinator or School Games Master for record keeping in the club or school.
Code of Conduct
All participants in Mini Rugby are to adhere to all aspects of the IRFU Code of Conduct for Players / Coaches / Parents and Spectators.
Ethos
The ethos of Mini Rugby is to introduce the game of rugby in a safe and enjoyable manner ensuring participation and inclusion. The principle of players first and then winning must apply to all coaches. Any appeals regarding Mini Rugby matters must be directed to the Branch Mini Rugby Committee and from there it could be directed to the Branch Youth Committee.
Fixtures
Blitz days or club/school days ensuring inclusion and participation is encouraged rather than the running of competitions, leagues and or cups resulting in over competitiveness and or behaviour problems on and off the field. All fixtures (with exception of school fixtures) to take place in a blitz day or club day format and to be arranged in conjunction with the Branch Mini Rugby Committee.
Blitz days (Branch approved competitions)
May be arranged as follows: by Regions or Areas/ by Invitation/ by Schools and by Province. Mini Rugby Committees to have a season plan to assist with arranging Blitz days and or events. Age limit and stages must be confirmed prior to the start of Blitz days and clear indications should accompany all invitations.
Club coaches / managers must be able to give proof of registration (event or Blitz day registration form) before his/her team’s first match in the event/Blitz day. Before the start of the event a referees / coaches briefing must take place to clarify all arrangements e.g. stages, format of play and safety. Should there be any concerns over safety (e.g. ability to scrum) matches will then be played at the next lower stage.
Eligibility
Mini Rugby is a participation sport. Date of eligibility for participants is the 1st July. Schools – attendance of school. Clubs eligibility is not confined to current Youth eligibility regulations. Playing over age players is illegal and immoral and will lead to coaches, teams, schools or clubs being banned from future events.
Registration
All players must be registered with their Club.
Correspondence
Any correspondence regarding Mini Rugby must be directed to the Leinster Branch Mini Rugby Committee.
Maximum playing time
Consideration must be given to clubs/teams with small numbers and or no reserves to prevent/avoid exhaustion and or the risk of injuries.
