Important Information

Mission Statement

Stourbridge Mini & Junior Section introduces young people to the sport of rugby union football with the objective of them taking an active part in the sport throughout their lives.

Our success will be measured by the number of our young people who are regularly playing rugby at any level when they are adults, and the number of our young people who become administrators, coaches, referees and other essential members of the rugby community.

Child Protection

Stourbridge RFC supports the RFU Child Protection Policy. For full details follow this link. RFU CP Policy

Gumshields/Mouthguards

Gumshields/mouthguards are highly recommended for Under 7 upwards. Players may opt for either 'dentist' fitted or less expensive standard guards that can be moulded to 'fit' at home. Mouthguards are available from the club shop.

Boot Studs

Players' boots should have aluminium studs complying to BS6366 - studs should be checked regularly for jagged edges as these pose a serious danger to other players. Please note rugby studs can be worn for football but not vice versa. Aluminium studs are available from the club shop. Moulded plastic studs and rubber blades may be used but must be checked on a regular basis - however boots with 'blade' type soles which have a metal tip on the plastic/rubber may not be used.

Severe Weather Clothing

All players should come adequately equipped to cope with the weather conditions that can occur during the winter months – this includes hats and wet weather gear where appropriate. It is better for the children to wear plenty of layers that may be removed accordingly.

Refreshments

Refreshments can be bought at the club, but please ensure that your child has access to drinks during training and in between matches.

Concussion

If any player suffers a knock which results in momentary unconsciousness, confusion, memory loss or unsteadiness, then there is evidence of definite concussion injuries. The player in question should be taken from the field of play and proper medical attention sought.
Please note that in any event, irrespective of age, the player may not play rugby for a compulsory twenty one day period.

Tetanus Injection

If not already done so mini rugby players should have a preventative course of tetanus injections. General Practitioners should be able to advise.

Responsibilities of Parents, Coaches and Managers

Coaches and managers cannot take legal responsibility for those players whose parents leave them during training sessions, tournaments and games. It should be remembered that the training session is not a crèche!

If parents/carers have to leave the ground for any reason during a training session, tournament or game, they should appoint a fellow parent to be responsible for their child.

Medical or Other Conditions

Parents/carers must notify coaches of any condition, eg asthma, diabetes, attention deficit disorder, epilepsy, that could affect a player during a session. Appropriate medication should be with the players’ parents/carers at all times.

Selection Policy

Stourbridge Mini & Junior section adheres to the RFU Continuum and as such selection is governed by the over-riding principle of player development.

Selection is entirely at the discretion of the Coaches who will focus on safely maintaining player development, enjoyment and enthusiasm - the final score is not the only factor. Rugby is a late development sport. Selection will take into account an individual's ability identified by their aptitude, strength and confidence.

From September through to Christmas, subject to player availability, Coaches will select teams of mixed ability and look to play individuals in various different positions. From January up until the end of the season, Coaches will select teams of equal ability and will aim to regularise positions.

Fixtures will be identified so that, ideally, every team enjoys competitive rugby where the game is likely to be closely fought against an evenly matched opposition.