Below is a summary of each age group. For full details of the rules for all age groups, check out Sydney Juniors Rugby Union https://www.sjru.com.au/junior-rugby/. The complete set of competition rules for 2019 is available here: https://www.sjru.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sydney-juniors-competition-playing-rules-2019-version-16-final.pdf  

 

 

Under 6s

• First year of rugby union with a strong emphasis on participation, enjoyment and making new friends from the district.

• 7 players on the field at a time.

• There is no tackle or ruck/maul but a two handed grab low (tag) on the shorts.

• Games are played on a quarter of full field.

• Playing time is 2 x 10 mins.

 

Under 7s

• The children continue for another year with the introduction of non contested three person scrums and two person line outs.

• The development is centred around catch and pass and again with a strong emphasis on participation and having fun.

• 7 players on the field at a time.

• Games are played on a quarter pitch size.

• Playing time is 2 x 15 mins.

 

Under 8s

• First introduction of tackle and the ruck contest.

• 7 players on the field at a time.

• Games are played on half size field with more room to run.

• Playing time is 2 x 15 mins.

• The safe practices of the tackle and ruck maul are taught by "Smart Rugby" accredited coaches.

 

Under 9s

• Whilst still on half size field, the team increases to 10 with 5 person scrum and 5 backs.

• More positional play is encouraged but with uncontested scrum and line out.

• Playing time is 2 x 20 mins. 

• The opportunity remains for everyone to safely try all positions on the field.

 

Under 10s

• The games are played on Sundays with grading for the first time.

• The competition covers the Sydney Metropolitan area on a home and away basis.

• Games are competitive scrums and line outs with 12 players on each team.

• The field is almost full field, only 10m narrower (5m each side).

• Playing time is 2 x 20 mins. 

• Conversions, kicks in general play with semi and grand finals are other changes to the first year of juniors.

 

Under 11s

• Same parameters as the U10s.

• The teams are regraded again to keep competitions fair and safe across the grades.

 

Under12s - U16s

• 15 players on the field.

• Skills focus is on positional awareness.

• Full size field.

• Playing time is 2 x 25 mins.