Melksham Cats RFC
Junior Section
INFORMATION ABOUT PLAYER AGES
We Coach and Play the game within the guidelines of the RFU Continuum. Below is an
indication of what we will aim to teach each of the early age groups. Please note
that Boys and Girls play in the same team from ages U6-U12
Under 7 - This is the very youngest age and the emphasis is on developing basic
skills and introducing simple rules. We recognise the importance of developing individuals
knowledge and confidence and introduce the concept of a team game. We play TAG BELT
Rugby which is a no contact game were a tackle is given when a Velcro Tag is pulled
off the ball carriers belt. The core skills we wish to encourage are; Good passing
& catching, team play and FUN.
Under 8 - This is the year to consolidate skills and improve the concept of team
play and moving the ball before the tackle. We would aim to add discipline into the
game with players holding position . This is still played with Tag Belts and therefore
a good time to introduce a child to the game.
Under 9 - This is the age we introduce full contact tackles. It is important to
prepare the players for the rough and tumble of a flowing game and so the tackle
is introduced slowly building from a stationary push to a walking dive and finally
a tackle at the run. This is the core of any Rugby game and we aim to ensure all
children gain the confidence to tackle . We will also introduce Scrums and Line
outs Rucks and Mauls.
Under 10 -This is the age when we would look for players to try out set positions
within the team. Scrums will be contested .The team will have to hold positions and
move as the play changes.
Under 11- More of the adult game is introduced with Kicking to start the game and
Conversion.
Under 13 - Under 16 By these ages a player is playing 15 aside on a full sized
pitch, the length of the game is shorter but most of the adult rules are now incorporated
in the game.
