Code of Fair Play.

All players, parents, coaches, spectators and anyone associated with Ruthin RFC must respect our Code of Fair Play. It has been prepared to ensure that rugby is conducted in a sensible and fair manner. The code of Fair Play is part of our statement of direction and is incorporated into the Rules of Mini and Junior Rugby.

The Welsh Rugby Union emphasises the duty of all players and Member Clubs to ensure that the game is conducted at every level in accordance with discipline and sporting behaviour. The club administers disciplinary procedures through an internal Disciplinary Committee which will convene if deemed necessary following a serious breach(s) of conduct as defined below.

The WRU Disciplinary Structures, Procedures and Sanctions for U19 Rugby in Wales in 2009/2010 are attached here. Click on this link to review.
 

Players Code of Fair Play:

  • Remember, play for the 'fun of the game', NOT just to please your parents or coaches.

  • NEVER use foul and abusive language

  • Learn the laws of the game and abide by them.

  • Never argue with the officials' decision. Let your Captain or Coach ask any necessary questions.

  • Accept discipline without question whether during a match or training.

  • Control your temper on the field of play, do not over react, and do not take unfair advantage of any player during matches or training.

  • Work equally hard for yourself and your team - your team and your own performance will benefit.

  • Be sportsmanlike. Applaud all good play, whether by your team or by the opposition.

  • Treat all players as you yourself would like to be treated. Do NOT interfere with, bully or take advantage of any other player.

  • The purpose of training is to learn the skills and rules of the game in an enjoyable environment. Do NOT waste yours and the time of others who are willing to learn and the coaches who give up their free time voluntarily.

  • Please remember that the coaches and team managers will administer a “three strikes and your out” policy to a player(s) where their behaviour breaches this Code of Fair Play. This will involve two verbal warnings whereupon the third warning, the player will be asked to sit out training and may even miss the following club match. The decision will rest with the coaching team.

Parents' Code of Fair Play:

  • Remember that children are involved in organised sports for their own enjoyment NOT yours. Do NOT force an unwilling child to participate in sports.

  • Encourage your child to play by the rules.

  • Teach your child the importance of teamwork.

  • Help your child to improve their skills and to be positive about the game.

  • Remember that children learn best by example. Applaud good play by your team and by the opposition. Be friendly to parents from the opposition.

  • Do not publicly question the officials' judgement and NEVER impugn their honesty. Remember that they are volunteers and that without them you would have no game.

  • Support all efforts to eradicate verbal and physical abuse.

  • Recognise and value the importance of the volunteer coaches. They give their time and resources to provide recreational and educational activites for your child.

  • Never use foul and abusive language.

Coaches' Code of Fair Play:

  • Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed on sound coaching principles and the principles of growth and development of children and youth. 
     
  • Ensure that you are physically fit enough to execute your duties.

  • Be reasonable in your demands on the young players' time, energy and enthusiasm. Remember they have other interests.

  • Teach your players that the laws of the game are mutual agreements, which no one should evade or break.

  • Group players according to age, size, skill and physical maturity whenever possible.

  • Avoid overplaying the talented players. The 'just average' players need and deserve equal time.

  • Remember that children and youths play for fun and enjoyment and that winning is only part of it. Never ridicule or harass children for making mistakes or losing a competition.

  • Ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age, size and ability of the players.

  • The scheduling, length and intensity of practice sessions should take into consideration the maturity and level of the players.

  • Develop team respect for the abilities of opponents as well as for the judgement of officials and opposing coaches.

  • Follow the advice of a doctor when determining when a player is fit to train or play after injury.

  • Remember that children and youths need a coach they can respect. Be generous with your praise when it is deserved. Set a good example.

Spectator's Code of Fair Play:

  • Remember that children play organised rugby for their own fun. They are NOT there to entertain you and they are NOT miniature professional athletes.

  • Be on your best behaviour and set a good example. DO NOT use profane language or harass players, coaches or officials. 

  • Applaud good play by your own team and by the opposition. 

  • Show respect for your team's opponents and supporters. Without them there would be no game. 

  • Never ridicule or admonish a child for making a mistake during a game or training. 

  • Condemn the use of violence in any form. 

  • Respect the officials' decisions. 

  • Encourage players to always play according to The Laws of The Game.