01/06/2026
Mandatory u/8 Tag Rugby, whats your thoughts?
Over the past weekend I managed to watch a few minutes of the u/8 rugby and was surprised to see them playing tag as I was not aware of the new rule change at grass roots, and yes that's my own fault.
I was rather shocked about this coming from a country that prides them on their contact and physicality, but yet also know what its about, here is few Pro's of Tag at age group rugby:
- Decreased injury risk
- Improved skill development
- More enjoyment and less fear
- Running rugby
- No catastrophic head/neck and spine injuries.
Yes there is a positive thing about playing tag and SARU did amazing work, with the Memo and coaching plans to teach the introduction of contact with a 6 Lesson plan before the players reach u/9 rugby.
Here is my opinion and concerns:
What is the effect and injury rate once these players reach contact age, or will we see improved players I guess only time will tell.
If we struggle to coach the current rugby laws and skills to club players and they have trouble understanding the working of the games and drills how efficient will it be coaching these changes to u/8 players is this perhaps not to technical?
Should Tag not be used as a summer sport and aim as skill and conditioning games.
The list of pros and cons have most likely been made and that's why we see this outcome. We respect this and truly hope it will be beneficial on the long run and not nip us in the...... 20 yeas down the line.
What truly made me sad/angry about this was what I saw next to the field and that is what was not seen in board rooms or in articles. The future front rows and back rows standing and crying behind their parents whilst they have to watch and support the team because they are not fast or cant pass that well. The game is being played by the faster, lighter and smaller players and the heavy slower players have to be reserves and spectators. I hope that these players will get opportunity and game time or they will lose interest and be lost for ever. Parents if your child is one of these missing out please keep them motivated as hope arrives in u/9 rugby where they will have the opportunity again, spend time with them and help them develop and stay moving............
