Playing the game

Some of the practical things new players should know before trying Mini Rugby.

Roughness

There is no doubt that Rugby, even Mini Rugby, is a rough game. While the physical side of the game is a part of Rugby’s appeal to many children, this roughness does not suit every child. While serious injuries in Rugby tend to occur in the older game nothing is more important to the clubs coaches and referees than the safety of the children they are training. The coaches and referees at Dalziel are all Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) trained/approved and safety is enphasised throughout training. The rules of Mini Rugby are designed to be safer than the full 15 a side game and players will repeatedly practice in training how to tackle and play the game in the safest possible way.

Note Though some kids can’t wait to “have at it” and are tackling from day one, we know that not all children want to try Rugby tackling or being tackled on the first day (or weeks). At Dalziel we will train, support and encourage players to start tackling, but they will not be forced to take part in the more physical side of the game until they themselves feel ready for it.

Discipline and respect

Self-discipline, respect for other players, officials and coaches is expected from everyone while thuggery,verbal outbursts and foul play is not tolerated. Players, parents and coaches are expected to be good sports with opposition players, parents and officials and adults must always remember that the example they set will be observed by the squads.

Dalziel Dragons Ethos

The Rugby ethos requires players to give three cheers to their opponents and shake hands at the end of every game. At Dalziel Dragons we view rugby as a sporting contest not a battle. Taking part, developing skills, getting fit, making friends, working with a team and having fun is what’s important to us.

While its nice to win it’s not the most important thing in Mini Rugby.

Fitness Level

Fitness is a very important aspect of today’s game no matter what level you play at. Dalziel Dragons want to have fit girls and boys playing for us and improving fitness is a big part of training every week. By the end of the season regular trainers are able to play in tournaments, which usually involves playing 3 to 6 matches in an afternoon.

We realise however at Dalziel Dragons that when children join us they may be anywhere within a range of fitness levels and that it may take time to get them “Match Fit”. If a player is willing to work with us we’ll do everything we can to bring their fitness up to a level that they are happy with.