Western District Junior Rugby Union Club –  Player & Parent Information

Introduction
Our goal is to create a safe, enjoyable, and inclusive environment for junior rugby. These codes of conduct ensure:

• Rugby remains fun and rewarding for all players.
• Adults understand that children play for their own enjoyment—not to satisfy parents or peers.
• Physical fitness and teamwork are promoted through positive experiences.
• Coaches, parents, and administrators prioritize the well-being of young players.

Remember: We are here for the kids. It’s their game!

Codes of Conduct

Players

• Play by the rules: They exist for fairness and safety.
• Respect officials: If you disagree, speak to your coach after the game.
• Control your temper: No verbal abuse, racial or religious vilification, or provoking opponents.
• Be a good sport: Acknowledge good plays from both teams.
• Treat others fairly: No bullying or taking unfair advantage.
• Cooperate: Work with coaches, teammates, and opponents—without them, there’s no game.
• Play for fun: Enjoy the game, not just to please parents or coaches.
• Speak up: If you’re unhappy or concerned, talk to your coach or manager.

Parents & Spectators

• Encourage participation: Kids play for enjoyment—don’t force them.
• Focus on effort, not results: Winning isn’t everything.
• Lead by example: Applaud all players and respect officials.
• No abuse: Never ridicule players or officials for mistakes.
• Support volunteers: Coaches and managers make the game possible.
• Respect referees: Teach kids to do the same.
• No smoking, alcohol, or dogs at games or training.
• Follow instructions: Ground marshals and officials ensure safety.
• Raise concerns appropriately: Speak to your coach or manager first; escalate to the club executive if needed.

Coaches & Managers

• Positive environment: Winning is only part of the fun.
• Fair play: Equal attention and opportunities for all players.
• Respect and professionalism: Toward referees, players, parents, and officials.
• Operate within the rules: Teach players to do the same.
• Accreditation and clearances: Smart Rugby certification and Working With Vulnerable People clearance required.
• Communication: Attend meetings and liaise with the club executive for concerns.

Training

Location: Weetangera Playing Fields
Schedule:

• U7–U9: Thursday, 5–6 pm
• U10–U18: Tuesday & Thursday, 5–6 pm

Bring: Boots, mouthguard, optional headgear, water bottle, and weather-appropriate gear.
Inclement weather: Contact your team manager for updates.

Season Format

Fixtures and finals are managed by ACTSNSW Rugby Union and published on their website.
Cancellations will be communicated via coaches, managers, and the club’s Facebook and Instagram page.

Team & Player Selection

• Players generally play in their correct age group (age as of January 1).
• Exceptional cases for playing up an age group require committee approval.
• Supplementary players may fill in under strict guidelines.
• Coaches aim for fair game time, though exact equality may not always be possible.
• U10–U18 teams may be divided into competitive and development squads based on skill, effort, and attitude.

Support Team Structure

• Coach: Leads training, promotes enjoyment, teamwork, and respect.
• Assistant Coach: Supports the coach and may run sessions if needed.
• Team Manager: Handles admin, rosters, and volunteer coordination.
• Game Day Roles: Assistant Referee, Scorekeeper, Hydration Specialist, Ground Marshal, Field Marshal, Medic.

Game Day Guidelines

• Ground Marshal: Oversees venue safety and crowd control.
• Team Marshal: Ensures side-line behaviour complies with the code of conduct.
• Medic: Provides first aid and coordinates emergency response.
• Parking: Use designated areas; avoid nature strips and private property.

Volunteering & Fundraising

Each family is expected to assist with canteen or BBQ once per season. Speak to your team manager to nominate preferred times.

Photography & Privacy

By registering, you consent to your child’s image being used for club promotion unless you opt out. A photo permission slip will be issued at the commencement of each season please complete and return to you team manager. 

Photos will never include personal details or be taken in private areas (e.g., change rooms).
Commonwealth privacy laws apply.

Insurance & Health

Registration includes basic insurance, but private health and ambulance cover are recommended.
Inform coaches of any health issues or injuries before training or games.

Presentation Day

All players receive a participation award.
Special awards include:

• Coach of the Year
• Club Person of the Year
• President’s Trophy
• Team of the Year
• Milestone recognition for players reaching 100 games.

Sponsors

Sponsorship is vital to our club—please support our sponsors whenever possible. See our Sponsors & Partners Page Here for details.