Young people come into Rugby Union for a variety of reasons; it is the duty of the coach to recognise this and stimulate continued participation. Coaches have a responsibility to ensure that all youngsters are given the opportunity to fulfil their aspirations in a caring environment where the emphasis is on:-

•  FUN  • ENJOYMENT  •  SKILL DEVELOPMENT

·       Recognise the importance of fun and enjoyment when coaching young players. Most learning is achieved through “doing.”

·       Appreciate the needs of the players before the needs of the sport.

·       Be a positive role model – think what this implies.

·       Keep winning and losing in perspective – encourage young players to behave with dignity in all circumstances.

·       Respect all referees and the decisions they make (remember it could be you refereeing next week) and ensure that the players recognise that they must do the same.

·       Provide positive verbal feedback in a constructive and encouraging manner, to all young players both during coaching sessions and games.

·       All coaches must remember that they have a duty of care for all youngsters with whom they are working.

·       Coaches must also remember they are in a position of trust and should avoid situations where this position is compromised.

IN RUGBY UNION COACHES OF YOUNG PLAYERS MUST:

·        Provide experiences which are matched to the young players’ age and ability, as well as their physical and mental development.

·        Ensure all youngsters are coached in a safe environment - is there adequate first aid readily to hand?

·        Avoid the overplaying of the best players by using a squad system which gives everybody a satisfactory amount of playing time.

·        Never allow a player to train or play when injured.

·        Ensure good supervision of young players, both on and off the field.

·        Recognise that young players should never be exposed to extremes of heat, cold, or unacceptable risk of injury.

·        Develop an awareness of nutrition as part of an overall education in lifestyle management.

·        Recognise that it is illegal for young players under 18 to drink alcohol.

·        Ensure that their knowledge and coaching strategies are up to date and in line with RFU philosophy.

·        Be aware of, and abide by, the RFU recommended procedures for taking young people on residential tours at home and abroad.

·        Be aware of, and abide by, the policies and procedures outlined in the RFU Child Protection Guidance Booklet.

·        Always be publicly open working with young players – never work alone and unobserved.
 

REMEMBER: