What’s involved ?

There are 5 great reasons why the position of a rugby coach is so incredibly important to the health of the game. You might be a parent whose child loves rugby, or a former player or even a current player who wants to give something back. Before you start we would encourage you to think about the age group you would like to coach.   Our children start playing rugby from the age of 6 (year 1) up to 18.  Also think about the commitment you can give in respect of time.  U6 to U10 train on a Sunday morning between 10.30 and 12.00 and of course there are away matches to attend.   U11 and above also train mid-week usually between 6pm – 7pm.  Ideally there would be a minimum of 2 coaches plus a team manager.  

Fixtures are organised by our Fixtures team. 

Our Intention

All players have their rugby journey supported by coaches and referees who are player-centred and skilled in the holistic development of young people.

The coaches and referees are competent and confident in key coaching processes, rugby specific knowledge and the application of RFU regulations. They put the welfare, as well as the wants and needs of young players, first.

Required Practice

1. DBS coaches MUST have an RFU Enhanced DBS
It is mandatory that every Age Grade coach meets the Required Practice.

Standard Practice

1. Is DBS approved
2. Has completed the HEADCASE Concussion Awareness Training Module
3. Is committed to following the Codes of Practice
4. Has completed England Rugby Coaching Award and/ or England Rugby Referee Award
5. Has completed the Introduction to Safeguarding course.

The RFU recommends that contact rugby should only be introduced and refereed under the supervision of RFU coaches and referees who have achieved standard practice.

Best Practice and support

All those who work as a coach or referee should be qualified, up to date with current methods, confident in their knowledge of the rules and have completed safeguarding and first aid training. They can then best meet the needs of all players.

To support our coaches in their coaching journey we encourage all our coaches to take part in the many courses that the RFU have available.  Costs will be reimbursed by the club.

New coaches will work with a mentor to develop their skill base.  Coaches will also receive a pre-season pack outlining key targets for their players for the coming season so they are better placed to identify any additional training they may need to deliver those targets.