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For boys and girls we have a variety of games providing fun and excitement.
We have a range of games and grades at Northcote. Have a read further down to get an understanding of the games and what to expect. But in every grade and game, there are some things you can expect.
At all levels of plays, we encourage kids not to be afraid of attempting skills they are not confident at because this is how they get better. If a player tries a skill and it goes horribly wrong we congratulate them on trying and encourage them to try again.
Teams are always filled with a range of skills and abilities and we ensure every kid knows their own strengths and what they can bring to each game. We highlight that it is a team effort - the tackle, setting of the ball, the passes, the dummy runner... All of these actions contribute and lead to scoring a try.
One approach we teach our coaches is to structure the skill around small games. We take a skill, turn it into a game and have the kids play it. We then practice the skill itself and then repeat the game aiming to have them improve that skill via play.
Wondering what rugby sport or grade your child should play?
You can look at the 2023 weight chart provided by the Harbour Rugby Union to get a quick idea of what grades your child is eligible for. To find out more about the games and grades, have a look at our summaries.
The first-year of tackle and yet not that many tackles are made. It can be a nervous moment for the parents and kids. There are a few tears but they are mostly from bruised egos and surprises. J6 is the best grade to start tackle. Every kid is new and we encourge parents to not risk mssing this year.
Age at 1st Jan | Weight Limit |
---|---|
6 years | Open |
7 years | 28kgs |
8 years | 25kgs |
Quarter-sized fields which are played between the try line and the 10m line (40m). Playing towards the halfway and try line.
25-minute halves with 5 minute half time
7-a-side with 3 forwards and 4 backs.
Mixed boys and girls
Non-contested scrums or line outs
No kickoffs, the game is started with a tap and pass.
No conversions and no fending
Our biggest priority this year is teaching safe tackle techniques. When the tackle is done correctly nobody gets hurt and its a great sense of pride and ability. Though there are only a handful of points it takes a whole season at this age of reminding and re-inforcing.
Along with being the tackler we also put a lot of focus on being tackled and how to fall. Once this is learnt the player's confidence grows and they start involving themselves in the game more and more.