Juniors - Safeguarding & Welfare

Our philosophy at Redditch RFC is to enjoy the game of rugby and encourage players of all standards. We aim to provide a safe environment for all and everyone has a part to play in this; Committee members, coaches, players, parents and guardians.

Boots must have the correct studs (available from the club shop if required). If you are in any doubt which studs are appropriate please ask your squad coach.

We strongly encourage all parents who assist in coaching on a regular basis to gain RFU coaching qualifications.

All squads must have at least one qualified coach who will have covered the following:

Coaching and developing players

Injury prevention and first aid

Child protection
All Assistant Coaches, Coaches and Committee Members have undergone a Criminal Bureau Records (CRB) check.
If you are not staying to watch your child during a match or training session you must ensure that the Team Coach or Manager has an emergency contact number for you. Children under eight (8) years must not be left unattended.

Rugby is a contact sport and whilst we take every care to minimise the risk of injury, injuries do occur. As such, the club has a compulsory RFU insurance cover.

CODE FOR PLAYERS

Play for fun - Not just to please your parents or coach.

Play by the Laws - No laws - no game. Don’t cheat.

Don’t argue with the referee - He won’t change his decision, and he might penalise your team again for arguing.

Control your temper and your mouth.

Never give up - The game’s not lost until it’s over.

Be fair - Don’t chuck your weight about. Improve your skill you’ll play better and feel better.

Don’t be selfish - Co-operate with your team, the referee and your opponents. Without them, you have no game.

Don’t show off even when you’ve scored.

Be a good sport - Recognise good rugby - even when it comes from the other team.

Winning is important but losing is not a disaster providing you tried your best.

Applaud your opponents at the end of the game and thank the officials.

CODE FOR PARENTS (& SPECTATORS)

Never force a child to play rugby.

Always remember that children play rugby for their enjoyment, not yours.

Encourage your child to play by the Laws. Make it clear that cheating is just a way to get an unfair advantage by dodging the laws.

Teach your child that victory isn’t everything - playing as well as they can is just as important. On any day, no more than half the teams can win, so defeat is no disgrace.

Never yell at a player for making a mistake. Never sneer or use sarcasm - you’ll make the player feel like a total failure. Remember they’re not playing for your benefit.

Applaud good play - by either team. Back up the referee - Don’t publicly question his fairness or ability. Children learn best by example so set a good one.

Encourage your child to improve his skills through coaching.

Stay Off the pitch Players and referees are entitled to be there. Referees have worked hard to earn their qualifications. If you want to get involved in Rugby, join them and learn how. Otherwise - don’t interfere.

Doctor knows best When a player’s been injured, follow medical advice about when they are ready to play again.

Don’t abuse anyone - especially the referee. Like the coaches, he is a volunteer and unpaid. He has given up his spare time. If you abuse him, he might not return. And how can your child play Rugby without a referee?